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I met Fabrizio Giugiaro at the Salone Auto Torino, where the cobblestone courtyards around the Royal Palace of Turin glimmered with concept cars and prototypes. Amid the bustle of journalists and designers, Fabrizio spoke candidly about the future of electric mobility, the soul of design, and why the next chapter of the automobile still needs emotion—and a little combustion. There is a short 5 minute video that we did after this interview you should also check out! by Bernard Martin  For the Salone Auto Torino GFG Style Display 2025, two historic and highly celebrated pieces from the Fabrizio and Giorgetto Giugiaro collection where on display at the booth set up in Giardini Reali - the 1963 Chevrolet Testudo and the 2002 Alfa Romeo Brera - as well as the Peralta S style model, the first one-off created by GFG Style, a project by Fabrizio Giugiaro inspired by Giorgetto Giugiaro's Maserati Boomerang. It’s hard to imagine modern automotive design without the name Giugiaro. Between Giorgetto and his son Fabrizio, the family has shaped everything from the Volkswagen Golf to the DeLorean DMC-12. But sitting across from Fabrizio Giugiaro in Turin, surrounded by GFG Style’s futuristic concepts, I wasn’t there to talk about the past—I wanted to understand where the future of design is headed, especially as electric vehicles reshape the industry he helped define. “I started working on electric drive long before it became fashionable,” Fabrizio tells me with a grin. “Back in 1992, I built a car in Israel that was technically electric, but it had what we’d now call a range extender—a small turbine that generated power.” He laughs at the idea that something he built three decades ago might be more relevant today than ever. “That car was ahead of its time. The idea was simple: let electricity drive the wheels, but keep a small engine or turbine to recharge the battery. Lightweight, efficient, flexible fuel. That’s still, for me, the most logical approach.” His conviction hasn’t changed, even as the rest of the industry races toward all-electric mandates. “Full electric is important,” he says, “but it isn’t everything. The market and the infrastructure have to grow together. Forcing it by regulation—before the market is ready—was the big mistake.”  Bandini Dora concept. The GFG Dora, designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, nicely highlights the aesthetic concept behind the conception of this full-electric sports car, created as a tribute to the famous cars designed by Ilario Bandini in the 1950s: the structural pillars have the function of enclosing the volume dedicated to the driver and passenger, with a protective function like the halo in Formula 1 cars. At the same time, their shape creates a super minimal and elegant line, conveying an idea of speed and sportiness, and combines the front and back of the car into an organic whole. When he left Italdesign, Fabrizio began creating wild, go-anywhere machines: the Parkour, the Audi Nanuk, and later, the GFG Kangaroo—an electric “hyper-SUV” that can blast around a racetrack or climb over rocks with equal ease. Around the same time, he collaborated with the reborn Bandini Automobili on the Bandini Dora, a striking open electric roadster that paid homage to Italy’s small coachbuilt sports cars of the 1950s. “The Dora was about freedom,” Fabrizio explains. “It was electric, yes—but more importantly, it showed that electric architecture lets us rethink proportion and emotion. The absence of a big engine means you can make something light, beautiful, and pure.” Both cars reflected his belief that electric design shouldn’t just mimic combustion—it should rediscover the joy of form. “The Kangaroo was an experiment,” he continues. “Electric, fast, and versatile. Technically, it worked beautifully. But I discovered that even if electric cars are better in performance—faster, more balanced—they can lack something very human: charm. You know, that emotion—the sound, the vibration, the feeling. A supercar needs that soul. Without it, it’s missing something.”  Although the aggressive and aerodynamic shapes make one think of a “pure” sports car, the GFG Vision 2030 is configured as an SUV, given that it has been designed to cope with all kinds of terrain and environmental conditions, from track to off-road, whether it is sunny, rainy or even snowy. Not just an SUV though, but a Hyper SUV, given its all-electric power supply and ability to deliver top-notch performance while ensuring comfort and safety. Fabrizio believes the car market is splitting in two. “There will be cars for mobility—smart, shared, connected, autonomous. They’ll move people efficiently,” he says. “And then there will be cars for pleasure—for driving, for emotion. That’s the future.” He’s realistic, not nostalgic. “I love automatic transmissions,” he admits. “But I understand why people want manuals again. It’s a toy, a game. It’s fun. Cars for fun will never disappear.” He’s also keenly aware that today’s youth relate to cars differently than previous generations. “In Europe, many young people don’t even get a driver’s license,” he says. “Their social life is through their phone. When I was 18, a car meant freedom. For them, it’s the device.” But here’s where he sees opportunity. “In China, cars are already integrated with that device. You get in, your phone connects, your music starts, your cameras activate. The car becomes part of your digital world. For young people, that’s exciting. They can say, ‘I’m here!’ and share it instantly. That’s how they rediscover the car.” He has deep respect for the speed of Chinese innovation. “In China, interior design, integration, connectivity—they’re already beyond Europe,” he says. “They understood how to connect technology to emotion for a new generation. Meanwhile, Europe is still sleeping.” When the conversation turns to policy, Fabrizio doesn’t mince words. “The biggest mistake in Europe was trying to force electric cars through rules instead of letting the market evolve naturally. The infrastructure wasn’t ready. If you live in a house and can plug in, fine. But if you live on the 10th floor of an apartment building—what are you going to do? Run a cable out the window?” He shakes his head. “That’s not realistic. People don’t know what to buy—diesel, electric, hybrid. Nobody wants to buy something that loses 90 percent of its value in two years. The market has collapsed for that reason.”  The GFG Kangaroo on the move on the streets of Turin, near Piazza Castello, on the occasion of the 2024 Auto Show, still displaying the race number used during the last edition of the famous Mille Miglia, run entirely by the full-electric hyper SUV. Characteristic of the models designed by Fabrizio Giugiaro is that they are fully functioning and traveling prototypes, capable of tackling any kind of route, often driven by the Fabrizio himself. The Giants and the IndependentFabrizio’s view of the global landscape is refreshingly candid. He sees consolidation as inevitable but not necessarily bad. “A few years ago we saw the American Chrysler group merge into Fiat, and then into FCA,” he says. “Now we have Stellantis—a giant that stretches from Detroit to Turin to Paris. It’s a necessary structure, because developing technology today costs billions. But the challenge is cultural: how do you keep Italian passion and identity inside a multinational that large?” At the other end of the spectrum, he sees small independents thriving on authenticity. “Look at Pagani,” he says. “They build cars with manual gearboxes and incredible craftsmanship—pure emotion. They prove that there’s still space for people who create for the sake of pleasure, not just production. In some ways, Pagani is more in touch with what people want than many of the big manufacturers. That’s the balance the future needs: the giants for mobility, and the artisans for emotion.” Today, GFG Style works with clients around the world—each with their own vision. “We’re a design service,” Fabrizio explains. “Some customers want pure electric, others hybrid or turbine-based. And now, with Bizzarrini, we’re back to pure internal combustion—a naturally aspirated V12. Old-school charm, brand-new engineering. Everyone is running away from combustion, so we said, fine—we’ll make something that celebrates it.” He smiles when he describes the project. “The Bizzarrini is one hundred percent termic—completely internal combustion, no hybrid or electric assist. It’s like an old car in the best way: a naturally aspirated engine, no turbos, pure mechanical emotion. Not a thousand horsepower, but a car built to be truly charming and technically classic, even though it’s very advanced. They’re developing a brand-new twelve-cylinder engine from scratch. I said, ‘Are you crazy?’ They said, ‘No, no, no—because everyone else is going electric, so we’ll do the opposite. We’ll create this car, make our own engine, and even sell the engine to others.’ It’s a bold move, but a wise one.” (In Italian, “termic” comes from “motore termico,” meaning a traditional internal-combustion engine—literally a thermal engine powered by gasoline or diesel.) For Giugiaro, changing technology isn’t a limitation—it’s just another brief. “Designers are problem solvers,” he says. “When my father started, cars were shaped by engineers. Now they’re shaped by software, marketing, safety, autonomy. It doesn’t matter. Each new rule is just a new target. That’s the fun.” I ask about the collector market—what happens 50 years from now when today’s cars have obsolete software? He waves it off. “We had the same worry in the ’80s,” he says. “Technology evolves, but people always find a way. There will always be a market to keep these cars alive.” As our conversation winds down, it’s clear Fabrizio sees the future as neither electric nor mechanical—it’s emotional. “Cars will change, but people won’t,” he says. “They’ll always want to move, to express themselves, to play. Whether it’s through an app or a manual gearbox, the desire is the same.” He smiles as we step back toward the display of GFG prototypes gleaming in the Turin sun. “Mobility will be smart. Cars for fun will be special. That’s the world we’re building.” The Giugiaro CarsHighlights from a family that shaped the language of automotive design.  GFG Style Museum Together, Giorgetto and Fabrizio Giugiaro have designed cars for nearly every major manufacturer, influencing everything from the everyday hatchback to the modern supercar. Their legacy connects eras — from the analog grace of the Maserati Ghibli to the digital vision of the Bizzarrini Giotto — proving that great design transcends powertrains and generations.
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July 7, 1959 - May 5, 2025  It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dear friend, colleague, and co-founder, Wayne Woodward Long, who left us on May 5, 2025. Wayne was not only a cornerstone of Concours LLC but also a cherished member of the automotive community. Wayne graduated from WVU in 1985 with a BSCE in Civil Engineering. He enjoyed a diverse career, beginning as a Project Manager at Hampton Roads Sanitation District and National Marketing Engineer at U-Liner. He then embraced his entrepreneurial spirit, founding and partnering in several businesses including Pierpont Fuels, Mid-Atlantic Market, Mid-Atlantic Sports Cars, and Concours LLC. Wayne’s lifelong passion for motorsports began before he was five years old. He grew up surrounded by the automotive world, as his parents and aunt and uncle, Susie and Dick Whiteman, were founding members of the Mon Valley Sports Car Club, which he later helped revitalize in 2007. Wayne began competing in motocross at the age of 14 and after retiring from racing dirt bikes he started competing in autocross events, which he continued for more than forty years. Working together with his childhood friends Rick and David Biafora, he started Mid-Atlantic Sports Cars in 2007, a collector car dealership. He shared his experience and built relationships with many clients and several of the prominent auction houses over the years. Over time it became a central gathering place for his many friends and family to get together and share their lives. His office at MA Sports Cars was decorated grandly with museum-level memorabilia and collectibles throughout his years as a fixture within the automotive community. He quickly became a respected figure in the car community, serving as Chief Judge and founder for the Cortile Cup awards of the Cortile Italian Car Show at the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix. He helped establish the Greenbrier Concours d'Elegance, judged for the Hilton Head Concours d'Elegance, the Sewickly Show, and others, and also laid the groundwork for the Las Vegas Concours through his company Concours LLC. His dedication and knowledge earned him strong relationships with leading automotive brands including Panoz and the Dodge Viper Team. Wayne was a member of the Mon Valley Sports Car Club, Ferrari Club of America, Porsche Club of America, and Sports Car Club of America. He was knowledgeable in and loved sharing the history of things, whether it be for people, places, cars, or events, and made him a natural mentor to those around him. Everywhere he went, he had a fascinating story to tell that went with it. Wayne is survived by his wife Kim, his daughter Cassandra, his grandchild Jackson, his two sisters Janet and Sarah, and his brother Tom Jr. A Celebration of Life will be held July 4th weekend with location and time to be announced at a later time. We’d love for everyone to bring their favorite fun vehicle out for a gathering that embraces his love of family, friends, and cars. Wayne's legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. His passion, integrity, and warmth left an indelible mark on the automotive world and our hearts. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  Gilles Villeneuve at the 1981 Canadian Grand Prix. Photo courtesy Robert Murphy. PITTSBURGH, PA – April 27, 2025 – Motorsports excitement meets matchday energy as Concours LLC and Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC partner to launch a series of Formula 1 Watch Parties at Highmark Stadium. Starting April 20, fans of fast cars and thrilling competition are invited to gather in the heart of Pittsburgh to catch select F1 races in a vibrant, stadium-side setting.
The first five races selected for the series include:
Each event will be hosted inside Highmark Stadium with access to a limited food menu, a cash bar at the Pub, and the camaraderie of fellow F1 enthusiasts. The space is designed to comfortably host 50–70 guests, with additional outdoor and club-level options available if attendance exceeds expectations. For each race the gates will open 1 hour before race start time and close 1 hour after the race culminates. “We’re combining the energy of a live sports venue with the global thrill of Formula 1,” said Jeff Garner, President of Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC. “This partnership with Concours LLC brings a new kind of fan experience to Highmark Stadium.” Bernard Martin, Founder of Concours LLC, added, “We’re excited to bring the community together to celebrate racing in a whole new way. These watch parties are for die-hard F1 fans and curious newcomers alike.” If strong interest is shown, the series may expand to include additional races later in the 2025 season. by Bernard Martin  Luigi Chinetti Jr. has a unique perspective on Ferrari’s history, shaped by his family’s deep-rooted connection to the brand. His father, Luigi Chinetti Sr., was instrumental in Ferrari’s early success in North America. Chinetti Sr. began his career as a machinist for Nicola Romeo, where he developed expertise in precision engineering. His technical skill and passion for racing led him to join Alfa Romeo’s racing division in the 1920s, where he worked alongside Enzo Ferrari. Throughout the 1930s, Chinetti Sr. played a crucial role in Alfa Romeo’s racing efforts, preparing, racing and maintaining race cars for Ferrari’s 'Scuderia Ferrari' Alfa Romeo team. When World War II broke out, Chinetti Sr. found himself stranded in the United States, unable to return to Italy. Seizing the opportunity, he became a U.S. citizen and used his knowledge of Ferrari’s craftsmanship to introduce the brand to an American audience. Unlike war-ravaged Europe, the United States had an affluent market eager for high-performance automobiles, and Chinetti Sr. understood how to position Ferrari as a prestigious marque among American collectors and racers. The Birth of NART and Ferrari’s Expansion in North America The North American Racing Team, aka N.A.R.T., was instrumental in Ferrari’s expansion beyond Europe. Chinetti Jr. recalls that, in the early days, there was no formal Ferrari dealer network—every Ferrari built in 1946 was essentially a race car. His father, Luigi Chinetti Sr., was a key figure in bringing Ferrari to North America.  Ferrari 166MM Barchetta at the Ferrari Challenge at Watkins Glen 2024 NART was founded in 1956, partly inspired by a North American Van Lines truck that influenced the team’s name. At its core, NART sought to promote American drivers on the international racing stage, helping solidify Ferrari’s presence in North America. One of the team’s most significant moments came in 1949, when Chinetti Sr. decided to campaign a Ferrari 166MM barchetta at the 24 Hours of Le Mans—despite Ferrari’s initial reluctance. He strategically reduced the car’s horsepower to ensure its durability over the grueling endurance race, a move that ultimately paid off. The nickname barchetta, meaning 'little boat,' calls attention to the chassis's superleggera strengthening ribs, which gave the car a boat-like shape. The name was first used at the 1948 Turin Auto Show, likely applied by a journalist. In 2005, Motor Trend Classic placed the 166 MM barchetta sixth in their list of the ten "greatest Ferraris of all time." Ferrari’s Focus: Europe vs. North America Chinetti Jr. reflected on how Ferrari’s focus differed across markets. "While Ferrari prioritized single-seater race cars in Europe, NART emphasized two-seater sports cars for the American market." This distinction helped Ferrari appeal to U.S. customers and racers, and it was the sports car sales in North America that supported the single-seater racing program in Europe. Chinetti Jr.'s Critical Look at the Ferrari Film Chinetti Jr. also shared his thoughts on Ferrari (2023), a film that attempts to capture the essence of Enzo Ferrari’s life and career. While he found the Mille Miglia race sequences evocative of the era, he felt the film’s portrayal of Ferrari himself did not align with his own memories. Chinetti Jr. remarked, "No one called him Enzo. I could never imagine it. He referred to my father as 'Chinetti' and my dad called him 'Commendatore.'" Chinetti Jr. was also found the depiction of Mrs Ferrari not to be accurate according to his recollection. “Mr. Ferrari was made by Mrs. Ferrari,” Laura Ferrari played a crucial role in managing Ferrari’s business operations, particularly in financial and administrative matters. Her influence extended to key decisions within the company, ensuring its stability during difficult periods. She was known for her strong presence and unwavering support of Enzo Ferrari, often acting as the backbone of the company behind the scenes. Her deep involvement in Ferrari's management and her oversight of finances truly helped solidify the marque’s longevity. Her prominent role also indirectly contributed to one of Ferrari’s most significant internal conflicts, the "Palace Revolt" of 1961. Tensions between key engineers—most notably Carlo Chiti and Giotto Bizzarrini—and Ferrari’s leadership, including Laura Ferrari’s firm grip on company affairs, led to the mass departure of several top engineers. This shake-up ultimately resulted in the formation of ATS, Automobili Turismo e Sport, a rival firm founded by the disgruntled former Ferrari staff. That in turn led to the inception of Iso Rivolta's Grifo and the iconic BIzzarini's. The incident was a defining moment in Ferrari’s history, really demonstrating Laura Ferrari’s formidable influence in the company’s structure and decision-making. Engineering Philosophy and the Colombo Engine Chinetti Jr. also highlighted Ferrari’s engineering philosophy, recalling how certain individuals—like Gioachino Colombo, the designer of Ferrari’s early engines—operated with full creative control. “You didn’t tell Mr. Colombo how to design an intake manifold,” Chinetti Jr. noted, emphasizing the respect and autonomy given to Ferrari’s top engineers. The Ferrari Colombo engine, designed by Colombo in the late 1940s, became the backbone of Ferrari’s early road and race cars. It was a lightweight, high-revving V12 that powered some of the most iconic Ferraris, from the 166 series to the 250 GT, cementing its place in Ferrari’s engineering history. Colombo’s work laid the foundation for Ferrari’s dominance in motorsports and luxury performance vehicles. A Lasting Legacy NART’s influence on Ferrari and motorsports remains undeniable. The team not only introduced Ferrari to North America but also provided American drivers with opportunities to compete at the highest levels. Chinetti Jr.’s reflections offer a rare and personal glimpse into this critical chapter in motorsports history, bridging past triumphs with modern interpretations of Ferrari’s legacy. For those interested in Ferrari’s rich racing history and its cinematic portrayal, Chinetti Jr.’s insights serve as a compelling reminder of the people and decisions that shaped the brand’s success. Driven by Passion: A Journey Through Racing & Photography with PVGP Grand Marshal Bill Warner1/9/2025  Bernard Martin Interviews PVGP Grand Marshal for 2024 Bill Warner. Photo courtesy www.steverayphotography.com I had been reaching out to Bill Warner for nearly a decade to visit us at the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix. It wasn't until he passed the torch of the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance to Hagerty that he could find the time. So, it was really an honor to invite him to be the Grand Marshal for the 2024 Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (PVGP) and recognize his incredibl contribution to automotive history. Bill Warner brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and a contagious enthusiasm for all things automotive. His candor and humorous stories speak for themselves, as you'll see in the video below. Not many know that Bill Warner was born in Pittsburgh in 1943 but spent his life in Jacksonville, Florida. Bill's journey from Jacksonville to motorsports photography, then racing, and to the founding of the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, one of the most prestigious automotive events in the world, reflects a lifetime devoted to the art and history of motoring. In my interview with Bill from the 2024 PVGP, he shares stories about, among many other things, the origin story of the event and his even delves into his favorite cars ever displayed at the Amelia Island Concours, offering viewers a rare glimpse into his own personal insights and tastes. Bill’s passion shines through as he emphasizes that a Concours is ultimately about the people—not just the famous attendees, but also the volunteers and the camaraderie they create. A standout moment occurs when he shares his impression of modern electric vehicles with 'piped-in' sound effects, just as the open-wheel formula cars begin their opening lap on the PVGP racecourse—an impeccable coincidence that we could not have timed better, even if we had planned it. The Backstory on Kip Wasenko During the interview, Bill acknowledges Kip Wasenko in the audience. I suppose I should provide a bit more backstory that you won't get in the video. For those who don't know, it's been said that Cadillac’s styling was stuck in a rut until GM put Kip in charge of a new two door concept car, and it was Kip who brought Cadillac back to its roots to embrace its racing heritage. "Kip is credited with several significant designs. These include the Buick Wildcat Mid-Engine PPG Indy Series Pace Car, the Two-Rotor Mid-Engine Corvette Concept Car where he received his first Design Patent, and many Indy 500 and Daytona 500 Pace Cars. Kip was Cadillac's Chief Designer and is best known for the Design of the Cadillac EVOQ that was named “Best Concept Car at the 1999 North American International Auto Show." This design initiated the Art & Science Design Direction which was recognized as a Design Renaissance for Cadillac. The EVOQ was sold to the public as the Cadillac XLR and XLR-V two seater performance sports car Kip felt Cadillac needed. Kip applied the same Design Philosophy to the CTS-V, STS-V and the Cadillac LMP Race Car, developed with Riley & Scott, that raced LeMans. In addition, he designed the winning CTS-VR World Challenge Cadillac Race Cars by Pratt Miller. These race cars and the technology learned from Cadillac’s Racing Programs have contributed to the success of the world respected Cadillac V-Series Performance Cars. In February 2005, Motor Trend magazine recognized Kip’s contribution on their Power List, Kip continues on the track racing today!" (www.allantexlrinvitational.com) The Backstory on Luigi Chinetti Jr. During the interview, Bill and I look to Luigi Chinetti Jr., who's literally in the front row of the audience, to answer question about Ferraris. Bill playfully asks, "Would you prefer a short wheelbase Ferrari Berlinetta or a GTO?" The answer is in the video below, but to appreciate the significance of this exchange, it's really important to understand the Chinetti legacy. Luigi Chinetti Sr., born in 1901 in Italy, was a pivotal figure in Ferrari's history. A skilled mechanic and racer, he won the 24 Hours of Le Mans three times, including Ferrari's first victory in 1949, where he drove nearly 23 hours himself. He got stuck being in the United States at the outbreak of WWII and became a US citizen which resulted in Chinetti becoming Ferrari's first dealer in North America, establishing the brand's dealer network on the continent. In 1958, he founded the North American Racing Team (NART), which played a crucial role in promoting Ferrari in American motorsport. Luigi Chinetti Jr. followed in his father's footsteps, becoming a prominent figure in the Ferrari world and a talented racing driver. He began his racing career in the late 1960s, participating in events like the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring. His deep knowledge of Ferrari and his contributions to the brand's legacy are well-recognized. The Chinetti family's connection to the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (PVGP) and the Cortile is also significant. In 2023, Luigi Chinetti Jr. was honored as the Grand Marshal of the PVGP, highlighting the family's enduring influence in the automotive world. Their legacy continues to inspire enthusiasts and participants at events like the PVGP Cortile, celebrating Italian automotive excellence. This interaction between Bill and Luigi really underscores the deep connections and rich history within the motorsports and automotive community that is a thread throughout our entire conversation. In fact, this interchange led to a complete change in my "interview" later at the Cortile Lunchean when I just let these two share the floor. It's Hope and Crosby on stage! LOL. A Memorable Conclusion One of Bill's favorite memories that he shares in the video involves John Surtees, the legendary racer who remains the "only person to win World Championships on both two and four wheels." Albiet, I think Nuvolari should be mentioned, with an asterisk, every time this quote is used, hence why I'm using it as a quote. Anyway, Surtees brought his iconic 1956 MV Agusta 500 to the 2001 Amelia Island Concours, where he was being honored, and the bike won an award. Bill recalls how, as he was calling out Surtees as the award winner, Surtees didnt appear and Bill initially was told he had left the event before being really surprised by his grand entrance to accept the award. You'll need to watch the video to appreciate Bill telling it. This serendipitous moment about awards couldn’t have been scripted and literally led seamlessly into our PVGP presentation of a special award to Bill from the my friend Paul Pigman from Amalgam. Watching Bill’s reaction as he received the award was truly touching; his genuine grateful emotion and surprise brought a truly poignant and heartfelt close to the interview. Watch the Full Interview Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to hear Bill Warner’s stories and insights. From his favorite cars to his reflections on the people who make events like the PVGP and Amelia Island Concours so special, this video is a really a must-watch for automotive enthusiasts.  The location of any event can make or break its success. For automotive events, especially prestigious gatherings like Concours d’Elegance or classic car shows, the venue serves as more than just a backdrop. It becomes part of the story, enhancing the experience for attendees, participants, and sponsors alike. At Concours LLC, we understand that selecting the right location is paramount to delivering an unforgettable event. Setting the Stage The venue must align with the event’s theme and audience expectations. Whether it’s the lush greens of a golf course, the historic charm of a century-old estate, or the modern elegance of a luxury resort, the setting must exude character. For instance, a Concours d’Elegance held at a location steeped in automotive history or cultural significance creates an emotional connection and elevates the prestige of the event. And don't forget that you need to not only know your audience demographics but also how it cater to the right audience. Destination Matters More Than You Think It’s not just about the venue—your event destination can actually affect whether or not your guests will show up. In fact, 72% of event attendees say destination is a significant factor in whether or not they attend an event. Before you do anything, you have to make sure your event destination takes into account your event’s objective. You want to think about which destination (city, venue, and event space) will help you achieve your overall goal—whether it’s to promote your product, drive brand awareness, close deals, or cater to the right audience. The Three Cs of Concour's Destination
Timing Is Everything That’s one reason why we recommend Concours events be held on Saturdays, which puts the gala after the awards show and not the night before the awards show. People can let their hair down and talk about the cars that won instead of rushing to catch a flight on a Sunday night. This schedule creates a more relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. It also gives you a rain date on Sunday if the weather is absolutely horrid on Saturday! Elevating the Experience It all starts with looking at the Conours location as something more than just the place where content gets delivered. The venue—and the way it’s set up—should elevate all of the elements that the attendees find important. So to choose the right venue, we need to start by asking ourselves: What do attendees care about? Based on a recent survey of 180 planners, it largely boils down to these four things:
What we can control, however, are what we like to call the “tangibles.” Through these, we can at least try to prepare for the elements that are ultimately out of our hands. The city, venue, logistics for car load in, staging, seating, food and beverage offering, AV, decor, and agenda—all of these help set the stage. Of all of the “tangibles,” choosing the venue is the single most important. It has a direct impact on the rest, and, more importantly, it has a direct impact on an attendee’s decision to attend. Scenic Appeal Stunning landscapes and architectural grandeur can enhance an event’s visual appeal, making it more memorable and media-friendly. Picturesque settings not only draw more attendees but also provide photographers and media outlets with compelling imagery, boosting post-event coverage. Imagine iconic cars displayed against a backdrop of rolling hills or a pristine coastline—these are the images that linger in memory and on social media feeds. Staging the Concours for photography is just as crucial. Much like a painting, where you work from background to foreground, you must carefully consider what appears in the background of each image where a car will be staged. The goal is to create a backdrop that enhances the videos and photos of the car. Thoughtful planning of the winners' stage and its presentation is equally important. This is where onsite planning begins: from the background to the foreground and from the end of the event awards ceremony backward to the starting setup. By prioritizing these elements, you ensure that every shot captures the essence of the event beautifully. Infrastructure and Amenities A well-equipped venue can significantly impact the comfort and satisfaction of attendees. Consider facilities such as restrooms, food and beverage services, and shaded areas. Additionally, the availability of modern amenities, including high-speed internet for live streaming and robust electrical infrastructure for EV displays, can enhance the event’s appeal and functionality. Community and Local Support The support of the local community can be a game-changer. Partnering with nearby businesses, tourism boards, and civic organizations can amplify promotional efforts and generate goodwill. Communities that embrace an event often bring added resources, such as volunteers, sponsorship opportunities, and a built-in audience. This support can also ease permitting processes and foster long-term partnerships. Creating a Legacy The best venues are those that become synonymous with the event itself. Think of Pebble Beach, Amelia Island, or Villa d’Este—these locations have become iconic within the automotive world, drawing enthusiasts year after year. Building a long-term association between an event and its venue can create a legacy that resonates with future generations of collectors and fans. Selecting the right location is an art and a science. At Concours LLC, we meticulously evaluate every aspect of a potential venue to ensure it meets the highest standards for our events. By prioritizing setting, accessibility, scenic appeal, infrastructure, community support, and security, we create experiences that leave a lasting impression. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about the cars—it’s about the unforgettable moments shared in the perfect place. If you've got questions or need some more ideas, give us a call! March 24, 1947 – November 16, 2024  Lamborghini CEO, Stephan Wilkelmann (l) with our dear friend Bruce Hall (r) of Applewood Motors It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear friend and partner, Bruce E. Hall, on November 16, 2024, at the age of 77. Bruce was a cornerstone of the car enthusiast community and a cherished member of the Concours LLC family. Born in Charleston, West Virginia, he carried the spirit of his home state with him wherever he went, sharing his passion for cars, his wealth of knowledge, and his indomitable sense of humor.
Bruce’s lifelong love for motor vehicles began early. At the age of nine, he won a championship with his midget race car and went on to race snowmobiles, drag racers, and go-karts. After earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the West Virginia Institute of Technology, Bruce channeled his expertise into restoring collector cars and, later, transporting them. In 1998, he founded Applewood Motorcar Transport, a company that quickly became synonymous with reliability and precision in the antique, classic, and exotic car world. His reputation as a trusted Lamborghini transporter was unparalleled. Bruce’s involvement in the automotive world extended far beyond his work. He was a fixture at car shows, from prestigious Concours d’Elegance events to local high school parking lot gatherings, always in his element and ready to “talk cars” with fellow enthusiasts. His warmth and knowledge made him a favorite among collectors and event organizers alike. Bruce was our team leader for logistics and transport at Concours LLC. Wayne Long, a longtime colleague and friend, shared, “It is with a heavy heart I share the news of Bruce Hall’s passing. Bruce owned Applewood Motorcar Transport and performed services for Lamborghini and many other clients. Bruce has worked closely with Lamborghini for nearly 20 years, handling all the shipping of new Lamborghini's east of the Rocky Mountains. Bruce was a great friend and will be dearly missed.” As Bernard Martin, Founder of the Cortile Italian Car Show and partner at Concours LLC, remarked, “Bruce was instrumental in developing the logistics plan for the inaugural Greenbrier Concours d’Elegance, and his company was our preferred carrier for display cars coming to the Cortile. Bruce was on top of everything, and you could count on him and his team to deliver exactly when and where you needed it. You could set your watch to it. He was a joy to work with, and his sense of humor, wit, and sarcasm made evening dinner and drinks something to look forward to when we let our hair down.” Bruce was not only a dedicated professional but also a true ambassador for the car hobby. His charm, quick wit, and genuine kindness made him beloved by everyone he encountered. His deep connection to West Virginia and his pride in representing its culture and history left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Bruce leaves behind his wife of 45 years, Judi Edgell Hall, his children, grandchildren, and a host of family and friends who will forever treasure his memory. His canine companion, Lambo, was a constant presence by his side. Bruce’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the automotive community he enriched. A Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at Brian and Kelly Middleton’s farm in Charlestown, WV. Further details will be shared at a later date. We encourage those who knew and loved Bruce to join us in honoring his remarkable life and contributions to the car world. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Bruce’s memory to Hospice of the Panhandle, 330 Hospice Lane, Kearneysville, WV 25430 (online https://hospiceotp.org) ; or to Shriner’s Hospital for Children, Attn: Office of Development, 2900 Rocky Point Dr, Tampa, FL 33607 (online https://donate.lovetotherescue.org); or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (online https://stjude.org)  As a follow up on our article a few months ago, the History of Concours d'Elegance, we've been getting questions about what are the top concours in the world right now. That can be a tough question to answer, especially if you hope to continue to get press credentials, but I'm giving it a go here. The world of Concours d’Elegance represents the pinnacle of automotive artistry, luxury, and historical significance. From the shores of Lake Como to the scenic fairways of Pebble Beach, these events showcase the most exquisite and rare automobiles, blending elegance, innovation, and cultural heritage. Each Concours offers a unique experience, whether through its iconic setting, exclusive entries, or integration of art and fashion. In this article we rank the top Concours d’Elegance globally, exploring their stories and what makes them stand out in the automotive world. You may agree or disagree with the list and we do welcome your comments!
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