At a time when climate change and the need for clean air are of huge global concern, FIVA (the Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens or international federation of historic vehicles) has agreed on a powerful new strategy at its annual General Assembly, held online on 20th November from Munich, Germany.
“FIVA’s new strategy shows support for the commitments arising from the Glasgow climate summit, but also aims to protect the vital cultural importance of the historic vehicle movement,” says FIVA president Tiddo Bresters. “These two aims are in no way contradictory.”
FIVA fully supports the national and international focus on sustainability, involving a shift to ‘cleaner’ vehicles. But it also asks that:
- We remember the importance of our cultural heritage – both the historic vehicles themselves and the global network of enthusiasts’ clubs and social groups that pass our mobile heritage on to future generations;
- We work to stimulate interest among the younger generation by looking at the best youth-oriented projects around the world;
- We educate younger people about the eco-friendly nature of historic vehicles, not least because of the sustainable use of materials and resources;
- We lobby – at a local, national and international level – to ensure historic vehicles can keep moving on public roads;
- Organisations that champion cultural heritage, such as FIVA, UNESCO and many others, work together to promote the value of the living preservation of historic vehicles;
- We communicate our aims and explain their importance not only to historic vehicle enthusiasts, but to anyone who believes in the importance of history, culture and the human factor behind it all – and how this can help us to contribute to a sustainable future.
Concludes Tiddo Bresters: “Even in a net-zero future, the cultural importance of our mobile heritage must be protected. Yesterday’s vehicles on tomorrow’s roads will help us to enrich and enjoy the future.”
At November’s FIVA General Assembly, the following were re-elected:
Jos Theuns – Vice President, Finance
Gautam Sen – Vice President, Communication
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