A historic technology show took place in central London.

      On Saturday in London an interesting event took place that attracted the attention not only of experts in the history of motor racing and automotive engineering in general, but also of the wider public.

      Yesterday from morning until midday Pall Mall, one of the central streets of the British capital, was closed to traffic, as in front of the building housing the Royal Automobile Club (RAC) a wide variety of self‑propelled vehicles dating from the early 20th century to the present day were on display.

      The exhibition, named after the central part of Westminster, St James’s Motoring Spectacle, is being held for the second year and precedes the car auction conducted by RM Sotheby’s, as well as the traditional run of historic vehicles from London to Brighton, which set off this morning.

      By the way, the Veteran Car Run is the oldest event of its kind in the world; it has been held for more than 120 years, since 1896, and we reported on it when Christian Horner, now the former team principal of Red Bull Racing, took part.

      Usually unique cars produced before 1905 can only be seen in museums, but yesterday they were put on public display, and vintage car enthusiasts were able to talk with their owners, many of whom looked quite picturesque, having dressed in late 19th–early 20th century fashion.

      In total, around 150 examples of a wide variety of machinery were involved in yesterday’s “motoring spectacle,” if one translates the show’s name literally, and a third of them are taking part today in the 100‑kilometre run towards the seaside town of Brighton.

      The weather was favourable and admission was free, so a large crowd spent a long time examining exhibits that represented not only the past and present of motoring but also the future of the industry, including concept cars and the latest urban electric models.

      Also on display were cars from the Formula 1 teams Ferrari and Williams, timed to mark the 75th anniversary of the World Championship, especially since in 1950 the RAC organised the British Grand Prix, the very first race that began the history of the “Queen of Motorsport.”

      It is worth noting another point: the public had a unique opportunity to be photographed with the trophy won by McLaren driver Lando Norris, who in July won the British round of the World Championship and is now leading the drivers’ standings.

      One of the most entertaining episodes was the appearance of famous British actor Rowan Atkinson, the creator of Mr. Bean. He is an ardent fan and collector of automobiles and yesterday arrived at the London show in an 1893 Salvesen steam car. It is believed to be the only example of its kind in the world that is still operational.