Velocity Secures Major Investment to Scale the Future of Classic Cars

PENSACOLA, Fla. – April 09, 2026 – Velocity, a leader in transforming vintage American vehicles into modern performance machines, has announced a strategic partnership with private equity firm TRP Capital Partners. The deal, which includes a minority investment from Battalion Capital, is set to inject significant capital and strategic expertise into the rapidly growing company, enabling it to expand production and meet soaring demand in the burgeoning restomod market.

Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Stuart Wilson, the founder and CEO of Velocity, will continue to lead the company and remains its largest individual investor, ensuring continuity in the vision that has propelled the brand to the forefront of the industry. The partnership encompasses Velocity's entire operation, including Classic Recreations, the licensed Shelby continuation vehicle manufacturer it acquired in August 2025.

"We built Velocity on craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a passion for these vehicles," said Wilson in a statement. "This partnership allows us to scale what we've already proven — expanding production, investing in new platforms, and continuing to deliver an exceptional experience for our customers while staying true to who we are."

The Strategic Engine: More Than Just Capital

For Velocity, the partnership with TRP Capital Partners represents a pivotal moment. TRP is not a silent partner; it is a specialized investment firm with a laser focus on the transportation sector. With over 125 years of combined experience and more than $1.2 billion invested across 34 platform companies since 1997, TRP brings a deep network and operational playbook that includes former portfolio companies like Penske Automotive Group and Universal Technical Institute.

This expertise in automotive retailing, specialty manufacturing, and aftermarket services is precisely what a company like Velocity needs to navigate its next phase of growth. TRP's role is to provide strategic support in scaling operations, refining supply chains, and expanding market reach without disrupting the core craftsmanship that defines the Velocity brand.

"Velocity has established a leadership position in its segment, and we believe the company is well-positioned for continued growth," commented Dave Mitchell, Managing Partner at TRP Capital Partners. "Our goal is to support the team as they expand their capabilities and further differentiate themselves in the market."

The investment arrives as the market for re-engineered classic vehicles, or restomods, is experiencing unprecedented growth. This isn't just about restoring old cars; it's about blending timeless design with modern performance, reliability, and comfort.

A Market in High Gear

The allure of classic cars is being supercharged by a new generation of buyers. The global classic car market, valued at over $37 billion in 2024, is projected to surge to nearly $95 billion by 2035. A significant driver of this growth is the restomod trend, which caters to enthusiasts who love the iconic aesthetics of a 1967 Mustang or a vintage Ford Bronco but desire the drivability of a modern vehicle.

This demand is fueled by a demographic shift. While Baby Boomers traditionally dominated the classic car scene, Gen X and Millennial buyers are now entering the market in force, often with nostalgia for the vehicles of the 70s, 80s, and 90s. These buyers are less purist and more open to modern upgrades, from fuel-injected engines and advanced suspension systems to bespoke interiors with state-of-the-art tech. For many affluent consumers, a $300,000 re-engineered classic from Velocity is a unique expression of personal taste and a tangible asset that can be enjoyed daily, unlike a stock-market portfolio.

From a Garage Project to a Production Powerhouse

Velocity's journey from a one-man operation to an industry leader is a testament to its process-driven approach. Founded in 2012 by U.S. Navy veteran Stuart Wilson, the company applied an engineering and military discipline to the often-chaotic world of car restoration. What began in a 250-square-foot shop has evolved into a state-of-the-art, 135,000-square-foot facility in Pensacola.

This is where Velocity truly differentiates itself. The company operates five distinct production lines, employing over 140 skilled technicians who handle everything from metal fabrication and paint to engine building and interior upholstery entirely in-house. This vertically integrated model, featuring over 1,000 quality-control checks per vehicle, allows Velocity to produce a complete build in a remarkably efficient 14-16 weeks.

This efficiency has fueled explosive growth, earning the company a spot on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies. After delivering around 100 vehicles in 2022, the company was on track to build approximately 160 in 2024, with Wilson stating a goal of scaling to 400 vehicles annually. The partnership with TRP is the key to unlocking that potential.

Building an Empire of Icons

The strategic ambition of Velocity became clear in August 2025 when it acquired the assets of Classic Recreations, a licensed manufacturer of Shelby continuation cars that had abruptly filed for bankruptcy. In a move that demonstrated industry leadership, Velocity stepped in to stabilize the situation, offering a path forward for customers with unfinished builds.

More importantly, Velocity secured a new licensing agreement with Carroll Shelby Licensing, Inc., ensuring the revered Shelby GT500 and Cobra models would continue production under its stewardship. This acquisition was a masterstroke, instantly adding one of the most iconic names in automotive history to its portfolio, which already included its flagship Ford Bronco, classic Mustangs, and a range of vintage Ford, Chevrolet, and International trucks.

By integrating the highly specialized Shelby builds into its own rigorous production system, Velocity is poised to elevate the quality and delivery of these legendary vehicles. The move diversifies its offerings and solidifies its reputation as a curator of American automotive icons, a strategy that undoubtedly made the company an attractive investment for TRP Capital Partners. With fresh capital and deep strategic support, Velocity is now in the driver's seat to define the next chapter for the classic car industry.