The U.S. Copyright Office is currently examining whether provisions of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, which was designed to protect intellectual property, should be applied to new automotive technology. Doing so could prohibit auto owners from modifying, tuning and preforming vehicle restoration on newer cars. Reports recently revealed that the Auto Alliance is relentlessly seeking these changes. For those unfamiliar with the Auto Alliance, the group is comprised of 12 of the top vehicle producers in the world serving as the auto industry’s leading interest and advocacy group. Auto makers are hoping that provisions in the copyright law that will soon prohibit home mechanics and car enthusiasts from repairing and modifying their own vehicles.

According to reports, auto makers believe that modern vehicles have become too technologically advanced and complex for consumers and untrained third party mechanics to handle. In a statement filed to by the Auto Alliance, the group claims that allowing individual auto owners and non-company based mechanics to continue to fix their vehicles has become “legally problematic,” and could affect the safety of drivers and vehicles.

Is this the end of DIY vehicle restoration and upgrading for future generation?

Not just yet. The Electronic Frontier Foundation, a nonprofit organization that advocates for individual rights in digital matters, is fighting to ensure that enthusiasts can continue working on their vehicles by providing exemptions that would give them the right to access necessary car components. Should the group succeed it could protect the future motor-heads and auto enthusiasts in their do-it-yourself pursuits for many years to come. If not, it could lead to an even more heightened interest in restoring classic, vintage and antique vehicles.

At Condon Skelly, we know how exciting collecting specialty, exotic, and classic cars can be. That’s why we specialize in offering complete specialty auto insurance. We are a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. Our team is as passionate about protecting your vehicles as you are about collecting them. We can help you secure affordable, industry-leading specialty auto insurance coverage to protect your classic, antique, or exotic vehicles. For more information about us and our specialty insurance programs, contact our specialists today at (866) 291-5694.

When it comes to vehicles modifications, there is often a delicate balance between what an average auto insurance providers will cover and the need for specialty auto insurance. There are times when standard auto insurance policies are not sufficient to properly ensure some types of vehicles, for example hot rods, vintage and antique vehicles and highly modified autos. In these cases, auto owners, collectors and enthusiasts can turn to a specialty auto insurance policy to secure the necessary coverage.

In general, specialty car insurance provides coverage for expensive, exotic or otherwise nonstandard vehicles that require special coverage considerations and adjusted coverage amounts. When it comes to highly modified vehicles, custom jobs and “tricked-out” rides, auto owners often find themselves needing such additional coverage. However, not all vehicle modifications require specialty auto insurance. While tinting windows or installing new stereo or security equipment often has little impact on an owner’s ability to secure auto coverage through a standard market, what does matter are major performance enhancements and body styling changes.

If the changes are designed to improve the power, performance or overall quality of the vehicle, the auto will most likely qualify as a specialty auto. Each insurance provider has their own specific standards for what qualifies as a modification, however specialty modifications often include:

-Custom paint jobs

-Structural changes to the frame and/or body such as: Front or rear spoilers; Custom wheels, tires or spinners; Vertical doors; Custom grilles; Side pipes; etc.

-Significant performance enhancements like engine, steering, exhaust or suspension enhancements.

When it comes to attaining the right specialty auto insurance coverage, it is often beneficial to work with an insurance agency that specializes in this niche area, as opposed to general consumer vehicle coverage. At Condon Skelly, we know how exciting collecting specialty, exotic, and classic cars can be. That’s why we specialize in offering complete specialty auto insurance. We are a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. Our team is as passionate about protecting your vehicles as you are about collecting them. We can help you secure affordable, industry-leading specialty auto insurance coverage to protect your classic, antique, or exotic vehicles. For more information about us and our specialty insurance programs, contact our specialists today at (866) 291-5694.

In a recent post we discussed the emergence of the Revology Mustang as one of the most headline grabbing and eye catching auto revival initiatives of 2015. What we haven’t mentioned yet is that Revology is not alone in their efforts to bring classic auto into the 21^st century with updated technology, performance, and luxury amenities. Revology is just one of a handful of specialty auto crafters popping up across the country that specialize in revamping classic rides. In the last few years a small but growing group of automakers around the world have been taking some of the most iconic cars ever built and updating them into thoroughly modern machines. In return, these revival vehicles have been met with both incredible praise, and harsh criticism from classic car enthusiasts.

There is no doubt that classic cars have an undeniable appeal, but as any auto enthusiast will confess vintage vehicles are not without their faults and flaws. While we might look back on classic rides through the proverbial rose colored glasses, many classic, antique and vintage vehicles leave much to be desired in terms of reliability, dependability and safety. Even in the best of shape and with impeccable upkeep vintage vehicles can be a handful and don’t often make the best daily drives. Which leaves many enthusiasts and collectors facing the conundrum of balancing their love for vintage aesthetics and tradition with their yearning for luxury, performance and convenience.

That’s where these replica and revival vehicles come into play. For years enthusiast have been updating their classics to enhance the driving experience. In fact, that’s what originally lead to many auto trends, such as hot-rodding. Proponents and producers of these modernized classics have been quick to point out just that. Supporters of these re-imagined classics assert that these vehicle, claim that they represent the prefect blend of automotive history, tradition and progress. These vehicles producers are coupling vintage styling and aesthetics appeal with the modern luxury amenities most consumers need in a daily driver to create a unique class of specialty vehicles to meet some enthusiasts’ demands. Many of these new autos offer top of the line vehicle technology in both safety and performance.

Whether you are a vintage auto purist or a specialty vehicle enthusiast, it is important to protect your ride. At Condon Skelly, we know how exciting collecting specialty, exotic, and classic cars can be. That’s why we specialize in offering complete specialty auto insurance. We’re a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. Our team is as passionate about protecting your vehicles as you are about collecting them. We can help you secure affordable, industry-leading specialty car insurance coverage to protect your classic, antique, or exotic vehicles. For more information about our specialty car insurance, contact our specialists today at (866) 291-5694.

Florida-based Revology Cars recently revealed what they are calling the Revology Mustang, and these new Mustangs quickly caught the eyes of auto enthusiast and industry professionals. Sporting the classic and iconic body styling of the 1964-1966 Ford Mustangs, the Revology Mustang is a spitting image of the past with a modern flair for luxury. With a list price of $119,500, these reimagined classics offer features that include a 265-horsepower, Windsor V-8 engine, LED head and tail lamps, 18 miles-per-gallon fuel efficiency, a hidden antenna and one-year bumper to bumper and five-year body corrosion warranties, according to Car and Driver magazine.

Here’s the catch; the vehicles aren’t actual classic 1960’s Mustangs. Instead, Revology’s specialty Mustangs are reportedly licensed Ford Mustang replicas based on the original production line that ran between late 1964 and 1966. Revology is coupling authorized reproduction bodies and equipment with luxury amenities such as air conditioning, bluetooth compatibility, USB and auxiliary ports, power windows and locks disguised as classic window cranks. The new autos also offer a power convertible top, power steering, anti-lock brakes and a collapsible steering column, and number of other modern safety features that just weren’t available on the original model. Revology Cars founder Tom Scarpello reportedly remarked that the new vehicles are designed for “nostalgic Mustang fans who love the sleek and minimal look of the classic Ford vehicle but want modern fuel efficiency, power and handling.”

According to reports, the reaction from industry fans and critics is split. Some are praising the vehicles as a practical solution to modern luxury machines and vintage appeal, while others are saying that the price far outweighs any practicality for the product. Online commenters were quick to scoff at the specialty vehicle’s steep price tag, saying that collectors would be better off buying an original 1966 Mustang and having custom work done, according to the New York Daily News. Still, many specialty auto and Classic Mustang enthusiasts are intrigued by the new replicas. Revology Cars is currently looking for factory space to produce these vehicles on an made-to-order basis.

At Condon Skelly, we know how exciting collecting specialty, exotic, and classic cars can be. That’s why we specialize in offering complete specialty auto insurance. We’re a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. Our team is as passionate about protecting your vehicles as you are about collecting them. We can help you secure affordable, industry-leading specialty car insurance coverage to protect your classic, antique, or exotic vehicles. For more information about our specialty car insurance, contact our specialists today at (866) 291-5694.

Imagine, you turn on the news only to see your prized classic vehicle battered and stranded by the side of the road. Having your vintage ride turn up missing would be painful enough, but the idea of finding it damaged after being stolen would be almost unbearable for many auto enthusiasts. While a strong antique classic car insurance policy can help mitigate the financial impacts, the moment would still likely be highly emotional.

Such could be the case if the owner of a stranded classic American muscle car steps up to claim their property. British police officials are making an international call to find the owner of a classic 1969 Chevrolet Impala Super Sport with plates registered in the US. According to reports, police have been desperately hunting the owner of the 1969 Impala after it was left abandoned in an intersection last month during rush hour traffic near London. The vehicles has suffered considerable amounts of damage to the the front bumper and hood but looks to have been in well-kept condition prior to the recent damage. The vehicle has an Idaho license plate which has been released through the media in hopes of alerting the owner who authorities believe might not even be aware that their Impala is missing. UK authorities believe that the vehicle may have been stolen and dumped by joyriders as the model is a rarity in the United Kingdom.

Classic vehicle theft is not as uncommon as many collectors would hope. In fact, there have been a number of recent reports of classic and vintage vehicle thefts over the last few months including the theft of another classic Chevy valued at over $45,000 from a Florida dealership and the theft or a rare 1987 Buick Grand National worth nearly $40,000 in Minnesota. Many of these thefts have taken place at restoration shops and dealerships. It is important that auto collectors choose their auto shops, dealers and storage facilities carefully in order to ensure that their vehicles are not only handles with care but protected in the event of a theft or break-in.

At Condon Skelly, we know how exciting collecting exotic, classic and sports cars can be. That’s why we specialize in offering complete classic auto insurance. We’re a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. Our team is as passionate about protecting your vehicles as you are about collecting them. We can help you secure affordable, industry-leading specialty car insurance coverage to protect your classic, antique, or exotic vehicles. For more information about our classic car insurance, contact our specialists today at (866) 291-5694.

Specialty Motorcycle Insurance: Superbikes Vs. Street Racers

Motorbike sports are one of the oldest vehicles racing competition in history. Over a century of motorbike and motorcycle racing has created a thriving and dynamic culture of sports fans, enthusiasts, aficionados and collectors devoted to the perpetuation of newer, stronger, faster and better motorcycle technology. Out of the early days of broad track racing came dozens of motorsports categories and specialties over the years, from speed racing to off-road competition designed to push the limits of engineering and innovation.

Two of the most popular racing categories are Street Racing and Superbike Racing. While they may seem similar at first glance, the differences lay in the nuances not unlike auto racing and its various factions.

So what is the difference between Street Racers and Superbikes? Here is a quick breakdown:

Street Racers are specially-built racing motorcycles that are neither available for purchase by the general public and despite their name, they are generally not permitted to be legally ridden on public roads. These bikers are currently divided into three classes: MotoGP, Moto2 and Moto3. All three classes are currently based on four-stroke engine platforms with strict weight limit and fuel capacities. Street Racers

Contrarily, Superbikes are derived from standard production models which are then modified after their initial production as consumer bikes. Rules vary from series to series, but generally these motorcycles must maintain the same profile as their road going counterparts and the same general appearance from all sides. Additionally, the frames of these bikes cannot be modified. Racers are permitted to modify some elements of the bike, including the suspensions, brakes, swingarm, and the diameter and size of the wheels, however the general performance and motor capabilities must be model standard. Superbikes must have four-stroke engines of between 850 cc and 1200 cc for twins, and between 750 cc and 1000 cc for four cylinder models.

When it comes to collecting and keeping specialty motorcycles, whether they are antiques, racers or sports bikes, having the proper insurance is vital. At Condon Skelly, we specialize in helping collectors and enthusiasts protect their classic, antique, exotic and collectable vehicles with affordable, industry-leading insurance coverage. We’re a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. To learn more about our operation and our Specialty Motorcycle Insurance, contact us at 800.257.9496.

Specialty Auto Insurance: The Foreign Truck Disadvantage

Have you ever wondered why America is the leading producer in the pickup truck market? Well there’s actually a pretty good reason that goes far beyond American craftsmanship and quality. In fact, one of the main reason’s America has maintained a strong monopoly on light duty truck production over the years is a little piece of legislature passed by Lyndon B. Johnson during the Cold War known as the “chicken tax”.

The Chicken Tax is a 25 percent tariff on a number of foreign goods such as starch, alcohol and light trucks, which was America’s response to taxes imposed by France, West Germany and other nations on poultry goods imported from the United States. Over time the tax on potato starch, dextrin, and brandy were lifted however the statute imposing the 25 percent tax on light trucks remains to this day. The tariff directly affected any country seeking to bring light trucks into the U.S., including Japanese auto makers and other smaller Asian and European vehicle producers looking to gain a foothold in the American auto market. While many have attempted to contest and repeal the tariff, U.S. legislature continues to keep the policy in place to protect U.S. domestic automakers from foreign competition in truck production.

As such, the tax remains one of the largest hurdles for foreign vehicle producers because it puts these companies at a distinct pricing disadvantage. Foreign automakers would have to increase the market prices of any truck models nearly $15,000 to compete with the average American truck maker’s return. Instead most foreign automakers choose to focus on expanding their product lines in every other available market sector, from compacts to SUVs and sports cars. Others, like Toyota, have taken to establishing North American production plants where they can produce trucks on American soil to avoid the tariff. While Toyota has done relatively well in marketing and branding of their Tacoma and Tundra truck platforms, American Companies Ford and General Motors continue to split over 60 percent of the truck market.

Some industry analysts suggest that the Chicken Tax has actually created a lag in technical and design innovation when it comes to light truck platforms which has adversely affected the overall quality of modern pickup truck offerings. Perhaps someday we will have the opportunity to see what companies like Mercedes and BMW would dream up in the form of a luxury pickup truck line, but as of now truck enthusiasts have roughly a hundred years of American trucks to collect, restore and treasure.

At Condon Skelly, we understand the importance of protecting your collectible, antique, classic, muscle custom and exotic cars is. That’s why we specialize in offering complete Specialty Auto Insurance. We’re a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. Our team is as passionate about protecting your vehicles as you are about collecting them. We can help you secure affordable, industry-leading specialty auto insurance coverage to protect your classic, antique, or exotic vehicles. For more information, contact our Specialty Auto Insurance experts today at (866) 291-5694.

Custom Car Insurance: History of the Hot Rod

Hot rods and roadsters are the foundation of a classic American auto tradition which dates back to the early 1930s. According to historians, the tradition of customizing factory vehicles in an effort to make them look, drive and feel faster has been present since the beginning of mass production. Many historians attribute Southern California as the original “home” of the hot rod scene, where young auto enthusiasts used to fix up and “hop-up” old vehicles for racing in dry lake basins.

The vehicles typically began as older, now classic American cars, which were modified to increase speed, styling and performance. Originally pieced together from junkyard metal scraps and broken down vehicles during World War II when steel was being allocated for the war effort, hot rods developed a very distinctive style and appearance. Over time enthusiasts began incorporating fiberglass body coverings and adornments as well. Large and powerful block engines, loud headers, big rear tires and polished chrome embellishments are hallmarks of a classic hot rod.

During the 1950’s hot-rodding became so popular that an entire culture began to emerge around street racing and car modification. Racing associations evolved and safety became a major issue which led to the formation of the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) in 1951. The NHRA established universal rules to promote entertainment and safety within racing circles.

The 1960s and 1970s saw the rise of “street rods” which were hot rods modified such that they were legal to drive on public roads as every day vehicles. Due in large part to the prominence of muscle cars in the racing arena, emphasis for street rods shifted from speed and performance to style, comfort and safety. Street Rod racing events were governed and regulated by the National Street Rod Association which emphasized safety and promoted a family friendly environment.

Today there is still a vibrant hot rod culture in America which has spread throughout the world. The hot rod community is commonly subdivided into two main groups: street rodders and hot rodders. Hot rod enthusiasts still build their vehicles using a lot of original equipment, parts, and stylistic traditions of the 1940s through the 1960s, while street rods are typically built with newer materials.

At Condon Skelly, we understand the importance of protecting your collectible, antique, classic, muscle custom and exotic cars is. That’s why we specialize in offering complete custom car insurance. We’re a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. Our team is as passionate about protecting your vehicles as you are about collecting them. We can help you secure affordable, industry-leading specialty auto insurance coverage to protect your classic, antique, or exotic vehicles. For more information, contact our custom car insurance specialists today at (866) 291-5694.