The eight apprentices will be given the chance to re-build a 1955 Series 4 Lancia Aurelia. First up is the task of stripping the car completely, numbering all the parts, and deciding what needs to be replaced, restored or remade. Once a course of action is decided on the team will begin the restoration process, which is expected to take about 14 months in total.
Speaking at the unveiling of the vehicle, local MP and Minister of State for Defence Procurement Philip Dunne gave his backing to the project and emphasised the importance of apprenticeships to the UK.
“I am pleased Bridgnorth’s Classic Motor Cars is committed to training apprentices, giving local school-leavers the chance to build knowledge, acquire practical skills and improve their job prospects for the future,” he said.
“Employers also benefit from apprenticeship programmes, as they can bring on the skills needed to expand their business by training young people, and can oversee training from start to finish.”
The car belongs to David Barzilay, one of CMC’s non-executive directors, who said the car will pose a significant challenge to the young team as it is a vehicle they will not be familiar with.
“They will have to research the vehicle, and the marque, before stripping it down to its component parts and then deciding what needs to be restored, replaced or rebuilt,” he said.
“They will be able to get help and advice from their managers as well as a Lancia expert who has been to see them, but it will be a challenge that will be an important part of their training with the company.”
The project is due to be complete by April next year when it will return to Italy to take part in a number of events including the Vernasca Silver Flag Hill Climb.
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