Helmut Weber, owner of Weber Historische Automobile, Handel, Reparatur und Service GmbH, is enthusiastic about the idea of bringing interested young classic car fans together with senior citizens from the scene throughout Germany to restore old vehicles together in workshops: "Who still knows how to adjust a carburettor or an ignition today?" says the 75-year-old. "It would be a shame if our knowledge were to be lost at some point." Together with Deuvet, the federal association for classic cars and youngtimers, Klassikwelt Bodensee is therefore launching the "Seniors are mentors" initiative. Helmut Weber will be there when other masters of their trade declare their willingness to pass on their knowledge to the next generation at the exhibition grounds in Friedrichshafen from May 5 to 7, 2023.
Klassikwelt Bodensee project manager Roland Bosch is delighted that Helmut Weber is on board: "Helmut is one of the most experienced classic car specialists in the region. He has an excellent network and we are counting on him to be joined by many other experts: Old masters who can do something."
Passing on knowledge to the next generation
When young people have inherited a classic car or want to buy one, they often lack the necessary know-how of good old technology. And many cannot afford a classic car workshop where they can still master the old technology beyond digital diagnostic devices. The new initiative "Seniors are mentors" aims to establish a group of experienced experts who meet regularly every few weeks in various workshops to teach young technology fans the basics of repair and maintenance, i.e. the old technology of the vehicles. "We want to pass on our knowledge, because it's huge," says Helmut Weber.
Young people from 18 to around 25 years of age who have a driving license are the target group. "Not half a school class, but one to three people," says Helmut Weber: "Ideally, they should be enthusiastic about technology." The first stage is to discuss whether it is even worth maintaining their vehicle. "If it is, then they should not shy away from the effort," emphasizes the expert. "It is important that they build up a 'relationship' with their car. Because then it's all about the basics. For example, how to adjust a breaker or check the compression."
Enthusiasm for old cars is growing among the younger population
Helmut Weber sees the "Seniors are mentors" campaign as helping people to help themselves. "We pass on our knowledge and the basics. Quietly, maybe two or three groups a year. After all, we're retired," laughs the Franconian-born man. In general, however, the 75-year-old is pleased to note that the boom in old tractors and classic cars is increasing young people's enthusiasm for historic vehicles: "It also has something to do with sustainability," says Helmut Weber: "If you get a vintage or classic car, you don't need a new vehicle."
The trade fair organizers invite interested "old masters" to the official information event during the trade fair. The meeting point is at the Deuvet stand in Hall A5.
Tickets and opening hours
Klassikwelt Bodensee takes place from Friday, May 5 to Sunday, May 7, 2023 and is open on Friday from 10 am to 7 pm, on Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm and on Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm. The day ticket is available online for 17 euros. Tickets are available in the online store. Further information can be found here.
