Heritage exhibition celebrating Vauxhall in Luton opening next month
A new exhibition exploring more than 120 years of Vauxhall’s history in Luton will open in May – with vintage vehicles, film footage and photographs showing its impact on the town.
The project, funded The National Lottery Heritage Fund, will use unseen pictures, videos, objects, personal stories and memorabilia to shine a light on the people, skills and community that powered the factory for generations.
Former Vauxhall employees have helped shape the exhibition to give an immersive look at life on the production line and beyond.
Five heritage vehicles on loan from the British Motor Museum will be on display – including the first and last cars built in Luton.
A virtual reality experience will also be unveiled in late May.
As well as the exhibition, there is also a programme of talks, workshops and community events.
And on the opening weekend, a family fun day will be held on Saturday, May 2 and a classic car show on Sunday, May 3.
Councillor Hazel Simmons MBE, Leader of Luton Council, said: “We are extremely proud to launch this exhibition as part of our celebrations of 150 years of Luton’s borough status. Following the plant’s closure in 2025, this is a poignant moment to recognise and celebrate the enormous contribution Vauxhall has made to our town.
“This exhibition brings those stories to life in innovative ways, celebrating the people, skills and community at the heart of Luton’s identity. It offers something for everyone, from former employees and car enthusiasts to young people inspired by design and engineering.”