Motoring World Mourns Loss of Quentin Willson
The British motoring world is in mourning following the announcement that Quentin Willson, the original Top Gear presenter and respected consumer champion, has died at the age of 68. His family confirmed he passed away peacefully on Saturday after a short illness, surrounded by his loved ones.
A Pioneering Television Career
Willson was a foundational figure in automotive broadcasting, becoming one of the first hosts of the BBC's iconic programme Top Gear alongside Jeremy Clarkson. He presented the show from 1991 until 2001, bringing his infectious passion for cars into living rooms across the nation.
Following his departure from the BBC, he went on to create and front the popular Channel 5 programme Fifth Gear. His creative talent also spawned other well-known shows, including Britain’s Worst Driver and BBC Two’s The Car’s the Star.
Consumer Champion and Electric Vehicle Advocate
Beyond the screen, Willson was a formidable force for consumer rights. He was a leading voice in the FairFuel campaign, successfully lobbying the government to freeze fuel duty. More recently, he turned his attention to the future of transport with his FairCharge campaign, dedicated to making electric vehicles affordable for everyone.
His advocacy for electric mobility was ahead of its time. As his family noted, he championed the GM EV1 long before electric cars became mainstream. In April of this year, he publicly criticised the government's decision to delay the ban on new petrol and diesel cars until 2035, labelling it a "grave misstep."
Tributes have poured in from across the industry. Fellow former Top Gear host James May remembered him as a "great bloke" who offered him invaluable advice early in his TV career. Ginny Buckley of Electrifying.com called him a "true national treasure", highlighting his generosity and passion.
Willson's career also included 15 years writing weekly columns for the Mirror and Sunday Mirror, and he was named Motoring Writer of the Year at the British Press Awards in 2004. In a lighter moment, he secured a place in television history by earning the lowest-ever score on Strictly Come Dancing in 2004, receiving just eight points for his cha-cha-cha.
He leaves behind his wife, Michaela, three children named Mercedes, Max, and Mini, and three grandchildren. As his family's statement poignantly concluded, "The void he has left can never be filled."
