The idea for a group of authors and specialists focused on automotive and transportation history was conceived in 1999. Opel specialist Eckhart Bartels and historian Ulrich Knaack wanted to establish an informal working group of professionals in automotive history so they could maintain ongoing, substantive contact with colleagues. At an initial meeting on June 11, 2001, in Ronnenberg near Hanover, the “Forum for Automotive History” was subsequently founded—known as “F-kubik” for short, due to the three “F” words, or even shorter, “F³.”
Informal Yet Committed
As early as October 22, 2001, the participants met with the veteran of automotive journalism, Halwart Schrader, in Hösseringen in the Lüneburg Heath. The informal yet committed association of specialists took shape. To mark the 25th anniversary of its founding, the “F-kubik” group gathered once again on Sunday, July 5, 2026, in Hösseringen at Halwart Schrader’s home to celebrate the milestone. Over the past quarter-century, this circle—based in northern Germany and currently comprising about 12 specialists in transportation history—has made a significant impact.
Golden Piston
Whether it was their consistent participation in and advisory role for the “Bremen Classic Motorshow” (BCM), the organization of automotive history symposia at various locations—including subsequent publications in book form—or the presentation of the first automotive history award, the “Golden Piston,” in the German-speaking world —many of these ideas and initiatives had a profound impact on and enriched the classic car scene. Zwischengas founder Bruno von Rotz has also been honored with the “Golden Piston.”
With Advice and Support
The F-kubik group operates without any bylaws or formalities; our advocacy work is based on trust and close collaboration with one another. With a strong focus on practical matters, the discussion group has been meeting several times a year since 2001 at various locations throughout northern Germany. Participants exchange ideas on various topics, materials, their own projects, and the latest information regarding the publishing industry and automotive history. At the same time, F-kubik serves as a point of contact for clients who need to organize exhibitions, are looking for expert articles, or require a publisher.
