On Tuesday, August 27, a party was held, which the initiator and developer of the"Autohalle", Thomas Meister, called a "kick-off" rather than a "ground-breaking ceremony". More than 200 guests accepted the invitation, including well-known faces from politics and business (sounds dry, but it wasn't) as well as many car enthusiasts and employees from neighboring companies and the future tenants.
In midsummer temperatures, the exciting project was presented and rounded off with a panel discussion moderated by Salar Bahrampoori, presenter and filmmaker for Swiss television. Thomas Meister was joined in the discussion by Andelfingen mayor Hansruedi Jucker, architect Christian Schüpbach and Martin Rudolf, owner of Oldtimer Werkstatt Madotors GmbH.
A dream comes true
Thomas Meister already had "petrol in his blood" as a boy, as he describes his passion himself. He has long dreamed of a place where classic cars, convivial evenings, good friends, culinary delights and warm hospitality come together. After the kick-off, it will now take less than two years for his dream to become reality: "Now I've been able to realize this idea and I'm very happy about it!" says the 61-year-old Andelfingen entrepreneur. Anyone who talks to him about the project immediately notices from the gleam in his eyes that this is a matter close to his heart. Of course, the operation of the car showroom has to be profitable, but it is not just a "business case" and it does not primarily have to serve "shareholder value". Above all, it is a dream come true.
Vintage car ambience
Even at the kick-off, it was clear how much attention to detail has already gone into the project. The speeches on stage were adorned by an Austin Healey, which was unveiled on stage. Vehicles from the classic car rental company"Rent a Classic " were parked decoratively on the street "Im Bilg". Lively conversations were held at the aperitif riche and ideas for the future were discussed.
Guests should feel at home
Every guest who comes to the Autohalle should feel right at home. Those who only want to stay for a short time to look around or have a "petrol talk" with friends will find an inviting bar with a lounge area. For a business lunch, club meeting or lunch with work colleagues, the restaurant with its open kitchen and charcoal grill is ready and waiting. Regional cuisine with and without meat is the trump card here, and anyone who feels a little peckish before lunchtime will be welcomed for a snack. In the evening, the kitchen is open for small and large groups who want to round off the day in style or for a tête-à-tête in a stylish setting.
Overnight stay for connoisseurs
Guests who want to enjoy the beautiful Weinland region, Thurgau and nearby Lake Constance for a little longer are well catered for with one of the 20 rooms offered by the hotel. Why wander far away when you can have it so much nicer so close by? Let your mind wander, enjoy the hills and vineyards and drive to the wonderful Untersee?
A highlight in the evening
In the evening, before or after dinner, guests have access to a bar and a smokers' lounge with a fireplace. Here you can round off the evening with a cigar, a whisky or a glass of fine wine. Review the day, reminisce and plan the next adventure. The perfect place to start your next classic car trip.
Large event area
The event area offers plenty of space with its modern infrastructure. Thanks to the flexible room layout system, there are virtually no limits to creative ideas: small or large drinks receptions, exhibitions and auctions, concerts and theater, weddings or other celebrations, brand club meetings or a drive-in cinema - the Autohalle offers state-of-the-art technology in lighting, sound, projection and furniture. The location in the industrial quarter offers sufficient space for events and meetings on the subject of classic cars. Thomas Meister and his team are looking forward to ideas from classic car enthusiasts to add to the already long list of possible events. Let your imagination run wild!
A beautiful home for the classic car
Around 70 parking spaces are offered in a modern "car rack" to accommodate the automotive treasures safely and comfortably. These are accessible day and night with a badge and have state-of-the-art security measures, a power connection and air conditioning. Thomas Meister was able to accept the first advance reservations even before construction work began.
Competence center for classic cars with classic car rental
A unique competence center with all the services a classic car enthusiast could wish for is being created here with the car hall. In addition to the restaurant, the hotel and the event area, the classic car rental company"Rent a Classic" is also moving in. There are currently almost 20 classic gems available to drive yourself, the mileage is unlimited and booking is as easy as with a normal car rental company.
Specialist workshop for classic cars
The specialist classic car workshop MADmotors GmbH, currently based in Flaach, will relocate its workshop to the Autohalle in Andelfingen. It specializes in classic vehicles: "The more complicated, the better - challenge us," says owner Martin Rudolf. Citroën hydropneumatics? "Yes, absolutely, we're really good at that!", or complicated English cars with a wiring harness that looks like Bob Marley's Rasta braid? "We're very familiar with tangled cables in different colors, we'll undo the knob for you and find and repair the nasty plug that drives others crazy!". Overhauling a Wankel engine so that it runs reliably? "Wankel engines are one of my passions, unfortunately there are only a few left, but I can make them all suitable for everyday use!" says the boss. Take him at his word!
For over five years, he and his employees have been putting their passion, heart and soul and inventive spirit into their work, which is second to none. The perfect place to have your classic car looked after - whether in winter in preparation for the season or before and after trips, rallies and other events.
Unique concept
The combination of parking spaces, restaurant with bar, hotel, event areas, classic car workshop and classic car rental complements each other perfectly. The Autohalle will be a competence center for classic cars that will stand for quality, innovation and the experience of classic cars far beyond the region.
