The motoring world is in mourning following the death of beloved presenter and journalist Quentin Willson at the age of 68.
His family announced that he passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones, on Saturday, 8th November, after a short battle with lung cancer.
A Life in the Fast Lane
Willson was a foundational figure in British television motoring journalism. He was one of the original stars of Top Gear, serving as the show's trusted used car expert for a decade from 1991.
During his tenure, he worked alongside fellow motoring personalities Jeremy Clarkson, Vicki Butler-Henderson, and James May, helping to shape the programme into a global phenomenon.
After his time on Top Gear, he went on to front Channel 5's rival show, Fifth Gear. Willson also showcased his personality beyond the garage, making a memorable appearance on Strictly Come Dancing, where he still holds the record for the show's lowest-ever score.
A Champion for Motorists and Innovation
Beyond the screen, Willson was a formidable campaigner for consumer rights. Through his FairFuel campaign, he fought to freeze fuel duty, a move his family stated prevented over £100 billion in fresh taxation for UK consumers.
He was also a visionary in the world of electric vehicles. His family highlighted that he championed the GM EV1 long before it was fashionable, proving he was always ahead of the curve.
More recently, he worked tirelessly on his FairCharge campaign, aiming to make electric vehicles affordable for everyone.
His television legacy extended beyond motoring shows, having created and presented popular programmes like Britain's Worst Drivers and The Cars the Star.
A Family's Tribute
In a heartfelt statement, his family paid tribute to him as a 'true national treasure' who 'brought the joy of motoring, from combustion to electric, into our living rooms'.
He is survived by his wife, Michaela, his three children, Mercedes, Max, and Mini, and his grandchildren, Saskia, Xander, and Roxana.
The family has asked for privacy during this difficult time and stated that funeral arrangements will be announced later. They poignantly added: 'The void he has left can never be filled. His knowledge was not just learned but lived; a library of experience now beyond our reach.'
