Gilbern Insurance
Tailored insurance for Britain’s forgotten sports car marque
When you own a Gilbern, you’re preserving a unique piece of British heritage. These distinctive Welsh-built sports cars represent one of the most interesting chapters in UK motoring history, and at Chris Knott Insurance, we understand the passion and dedication required to keep these rare vehicles on the road.
Whether you own a GT, Genie, Invader, or any other model from this fascinating marque, our experienced team has the knowledge and tailored insurer relationships to secure protection for your cherished British sports car.
What makes Gilbern cars so special?
Gilbern Sports Cars holds the distinction of being the only Welsh car manufacturer to produce cars in any significant numbers. Founded in 1959 by Giles Smith and Bernard Friese in Pontypridd, the company created some of Britain’s most distinctive sports cars during the 1960s and 1970s.
The marque’s story is one of innovation and determination. Starting with the GT in 1959, Gilbern pioneered the use of fibreglass bodywork combined with robust mechanical components, often sourced from BMC and later Ford. This approach allowed them to create lightweight, performance-oriented vehicles that could compete with more established manufacturers.
Production numbers were always limited, with only around 2,000 Gilbern cars built during the company’s 14-year existence. This rarity, combined with their unique Welsh heritage and distinctive styling, makes every surviving Gilbern a significant piece of history that deserves tailored protection.
What Gilbern models can we insure?
Our tailored arrangements cover the complete range of Gilbern production, from the earliest GT models through to the final Invader variants. Each model presents its own unique characteristics and insurance requirements.
Early Models (1959-1967)
Gilbern GT – The original model that established the marque, featuring a distinctive fibreglass body and BMC A-Series or B-Series engines. These early cars are particularly rare and require tailored agreed value cover.
Gilbern Genie – The refined evolution of the GT, offering improved performance and styling. The Genie represents the maturing of Gilbern’s design philosophy and engineering capabilities.
Later Production (1968-1973)
Gilbern Invader – The final and most sophisticated Gilbern model, featuring Ford V6 power and more modern styling. The Invader represents the pinnacle of Gilbern engineering and is highly sought after by collectors.
Estate and Special Variants – We can also arrange cover for the rare estate versions and one-off specials that occasionally appear, each requiring individual assessment and tailored valuation.
What factors influence your Gilbern insurance premium?
Our tailored arrangements cover the complete range of Gilbern production, from the earliest GT models through to the final Invader variants. Each model presents its own unique characteristics and insurance requirements.
Early Models (1959-1967)
Gilbern GT – The original model that established the marque, featuring a distinctive fibreglass body and BMC A-Series or B-Series engines. These early cars are particularly rare and require tailored agreed value cover.
Gilbern Genie – The refined evolution of the GT, offering improved performance and styling. The Genie represents the maturing of Gilbern’s design philosophy and engineering capabilities.
Later Production (1968-1973)
Gilbern Invader – The final and most sophisticated Gilbern model, featuring Ford V6 power and more modern styling. The Invader represents the pinnacle of Gilbern engineering and is highly sought after by collectors.
Estate and Special Variants – We can also arrange cover for the rare estate versions and one-off specials that occasionally appear, each requiring individual assessment and tailored valuation.
What coverage options are available for your Gilbern?
Our policies can be tailored to include a wide range of cover options designed specifically for classic car ownership.
Core Cover Elements
Agreed Value Protection – Unlike standard policies that use depreciated book values, agreed value coverage ensures you receive the full agreed-upon value of your Gilbern in the event of a total loss, reflecting its true worth as a classic car.
Comprehensive Physical Damage – Protection against collision, theft, vandalism, and other perils. Given the irreplaceable nature of many Gilbern components, comprehensive cover is essential.
Third Party Liability – Mandatory cover that protects you against claims from other parties.
Tailored Enhancements
Classic Car Breakdown Cover – Tailored breakdown services that understand the unique requirements of classic vehicles, including transportation to appropriate facilities.
Show and Rally Cover – Extended cover for participation in classic car events, shows, and rallies, including cover whilst on display.
Spare Parts Cover – Protection for your valuable collection of spare parts, recognising that many Gilbern components are irreplaceable.
Key and Lock Replacement – Cover for period-correct security systems and the often complex process of replacing classic car keys and locks.
What makes Chris Knott different for classic car coverage?
Our approach to classic car insurance is built on genuine understanding and appreciation of these special vehicles. We recognise that classic car ownership involves passion, dedication, and often significant investment in time and money.
We maintain relationships with specialist insurers who share this understanding and have the expertise to properly assess and cover classic vehicles. This means we can offer competitive premiums whilst ensuring comprehensive protection that standard insurers cannot match.
Our personal service approach means you’ll have direct access to experienced team members who understand classic cars and can adapt your coverage as your needs change, whether you’re adding vehicles to your collection or planning to participate in touring events. Call us on 0800 917 2274 to ensure your classic is properly protected.
Frequently Asked Questions
While most classic car policies are designed for limited pleasure use, we can arrange coverage for more regular use if required. However, this may affect premium costs and policy terms, and many owners prefer to preserve their Gilbern for special occasions.
Our specialist policies recognise the challenges of sourcing rare components. We work with approved repairers who have experience in fabricating parts or sourcing from specialist suppliers. In extreme cases, we may consider betterment allowances for improved components.
For agreed value policies, a professional valuation is often required, particularly for higher-value vehicles. We can recommend qualified classic car valuers who understand the Gilbern market and can provide appropriate documentation.
Yes, but modifications must be declared and agreed with your insurer. We work with owners to ensure that sensible improvements are properly covered, whether they’re performance enhancements or reliability improvements.
We can arrange coverage for parts cars and restoration projects, though terms and conditions will vary based on the vehicle’s condition and intended use. Each situation requires individual assessment.
Most policies include European Union coverage for touring and events. We can arrange extended coverage for longer trips or specific events, ensuring you’re properly protected wherever your classic car adventures take you.
For straightforward cases with appropriate storage and experienced owners, we can often arrange quotations within 24 hours. More complex situations involving high values or unusual circumstances may require additional time for proper assessment.
You’ll need standard documentation including driving licence details, vehicle registration documents, and details of any modifications. For agreed value policies, evidence of the vehicle’s condition and value, such as photographs, service history, or professional valuations, may be required.
Ready to protect your Gilbern with specialist coverage that understands the passion behind classic car ownership? Contact our experienced team today for a comprehensive quotation tailored to your specific requirements. Our UK-based specialists are here to ensure your piece of British automotive heritage receives the specialist protection it deserves.
