eBay has joined forces with The Forces’ motorsport charity, Mission Motorsport, in a remarkable initiative to restore a category N classified (CAT N) 2016 Subaru BRZ. The project aims to showcase eBay’s extensive range of parts and accessories while providing valuable training opportunities for service leavers. This collaborative effort will see the once crash-damaged coupe rebuilt using a combination of new and certified recycled parts, highlighting eBay’s commitment to affordability and sustainability in automotive restoration.
Marking its 10th anniversary, Mission Motorsport will utilize the Subaru BRZ in this year’s Race of Remembrance at Anglesey after its restoration. The car, meticulously prepared by former service personnel, will undergo transformation into an MSUK spec race car, featuring adaptations to accommodate a team predominantly comprising wheelchair users or individuals with life-changing lower limb injuries.
Mark White, Operations Manager at Mission Motorsport, commented on the project’s challenges and successes: “From the outset, the Subaru BRZ posed significant restoration challenges. With eBay’s Assured Fit service, we sourced essential components like light clusters, body panels, suspension parts, and seating, underscoring the marketplace’s extensive offerings.”
CAT N classification denotes vehicles involved in accidents without structural damage. Despite this, a substantial portion of UK motorists remain unaware of its implications, as revealed by eBay’s research. Once informed, a quarter of respondents expressed openness to purchasing CAT N vehicles, provided significant cost savings were offered.
Laura Richards, eBay’s Category Lead for car parts and accessories, emphasized the marketplace’s role in demystifying automotive repairs: “Our research underscores a widespread lack of understanding regarding insurance write-off categories. eBay’s My Garage feature simplifies the process of finding necessary parts, while our Certified Recycled program ensures quality-assured components at competitive prices.”
In 2023, over 186,000 vehicles were designated CAT N, with popular models like the Ford Focus and Ford Fiesta leading the statistics. Beyond mainstream vehicles, eBay also supports restoration efforts for classic cars, including iconic models like the Lotus Esprit and Jaguar XJS.
eBay’s commitment extends beyond new and recycled parts, with partnerships with OEMs like Ford, Toyota, and Jaguar Classic enhancing customer confidence in purchasing both modern and vintage car components. Through its Certified Recycled Programme (CRP), eBay enables substantial savings compared to brand-new parts, further promoting sustainability in automotive maintenance.
By championing projects like the Subaru BRZ restoration, eBay and Mission Motorsport not only revive iconic vehicles but also empower veterans through meaningful career opportunities in the automotive sector. This collaboration stands as a testament to innovation, sustainability, and community support in the automotive industry.
