On Thursday, 2 July 2026, the JDOST once again organised a project day at the HTL Wiener Neustadt from 09:00 to 12:30 as part of the ÖMVV youth development project ‘StarterMotor’. The aim of this initiative is to introduce young people to the historical cultural heritage of classic cars and to spark their enthusiasm for historic vehicles and their technology.

Around 50 pupils from the 2nd and 3rd years of the mechanical engineering stream took part in the event, together with their teachers and the head of department, DI Horst Eisinger. After the welcome, Wolfgang S. presented the project and the programme for the morning. Werner S. then explained the concept and objectives of ‘StarterMotor’. He spoke about classic cars as part of our technical and cultural heritage, as well as their economic significance. The classic car industry – including garages, insurance companies, the spare parts and accessories trade, events, tourism and other related sectors – generates around 800 million euros annually. He also highlighted the high level of popularity of historic vehicles amongst young and old alike, as well as the wide range of career opportunities available in this field.

In the technical session, Wolfgang S. focused on the distinctive features of historic vehicles, with particular emphasis on the electrical system and ignition. Using practical examples, original ignition components that participants could handle, and interesting insights into troubleshooting, he clearly illustrated the differences compared to modern vehicles. The talk quickly developed into a lively exchange with numerous questions and an engaged discussion.

Afterwards, the group moved on to the vehicles. On site, JDOST presented the following club vehicles:

Jaguar E-Type Coupé

Jaguar XJS V12 Convertible

Jaguar XK 150

two Jaguar Mark 2s

The aspiring mechanical engineers received detailed information from the JDOST members on the technology, operation, special features, history and model development of the individual vehicles. The pupils seized the opportunity with great interest to view the vehicles up close, ask numerous questions and explore both the exterior and interior in detail.

A particular highlight of the project day was the chance to ride in the Jaguar classic cars. All interested pupils were able to experience first-hand the unique driving sensation of historic cars during a short drive in the vicinity of the school – an experience that generated great enthusiasm among all participants.

The event concluded with a quiz featuring questions on classic cars, the classic car industry and, in particular, Jaguar vehicles. The pupils showed great enthusiasm. As a special reward, the top three finishers were invited to join a JDOST outing in the autumn, travelling in various Jaguar vehicles.

From the perspective of everyone involved, the project day was a resounding success. The participating JDOST members – Wolfgang S., Heinrich W., Michael B., George B. and Werner S. – were able to experience first-hand the young people’s enthusiasm and curiosity about historic vehicles. It is to be hoped that this event has sparked a lasting interest in classic cars and perhaps laid the foundations for them to pursue this fascinating hobby in the future, or even a career in the field.

For the JDOST members, too, the direct interaction with the inquisitive pupils was an enriching experience. It was particularly gratifying to receive an invitation from the department’s chairman, DI Horst Eisinger, to hold the project day again in future at HTL Wiener Neustadt, given its great success.