About Us


Jeff Taw:

Growing up in the South of England in the sixties was a great time and place to indulge a growing interest in anything that moved under its own power. As a young boy when not playing football with his mates he could be found building one of many go-carts, always looking for ways to propel them other than foot power. As time went by more than a passing interest was found in the resurrection of a long line of Lambretta motor scooters. Not being just content with "messing around" evenings and weekends with things motor related, the opening and attendance of a brand new high school offering a course in Automotive Engineering was the next step. Despite much advice against, from concerned family and friends as the end of his school years approached, Jeff was determined to seek a career as an automotive technician. An apprenticeship agreement was signed with the British government and a three year training course was eagerly taken on. Along with the day to day training gained working alongside the technicians in his workshop he was also expected to attend college one day a week ( from 9.00am to 9.00pm) to further hone theory and academic skills. The diploma's earned are on proud display today in the reception area at British European Auto. Working for the government could at times be very frustrating. The type of work that was routinely carried out at his workshop was very different from that of the other apprentices at college, who were mostly from local new car dealerships. The practice of rebuilding engines, axles, dynamo's etc. had for the most been replaced by the installation of "rebuilt exchange units". However the civil service approach was still to repair everything from automatic gearboxes to Zenith carburetors in house. At his young age a situation he found very frustratingly inefficient. However in retrospect now it was an invaluable experience that he constantly draws on today. Another high point of Jeff's training was when he was chosen as the citywide "apprentice of the year," picked not just from the automotive trainees but from all trades taught within the college.

After passing out of his time he transferred to a workshop a few miles outside of London to help take on some administrative duties as workshop foreman. After a couple of years the chance to fulfill a deep desire to work on prototype and experimental engines arose in the form of a job with Ford of Europe. Reluctantly his resignation was handed in and a new job at Ford Engineering Test Facility at Dunton was undertaken. Working at Ford during this time was very interesting , dyno testing development engines was a very exacting science, with most work relating to emission control and fuel economy.

Four years later after a vacation in Los Angeles everything in jolly old England seemed to fade a little when compared to the palm trees and beaches of Southern California. So after much deliberation bags were packed good-byes said to family and friends and a trip to Gatwick airport listening to " Breakfast in America" was the order of the day. Although only planning to stay a year or so looking around, plans changed with the meeting of fellow technician and future partner Bernie Sloan. Having arrived in March 1980 Jeff was surprised by the amount of British cars on the road. Also looking at the repair facilities operating at the time realized the need for a good quality shop in the South bay area. After a very short time the decision was made in August 1980 to start British European Auto opening Sept 1st.

Bernie Sloan:

Born in Pietermaritzburg South Africa of British descent. His father who was a renowned college professor was soon offered a new position in Wellington New Zealand. Along with his three sisters and Mum he soon found himself growing up in the land of the Maori. After graduating from school he started his Apprenticeship with the British car dealership Wright Stephensons of Wellington. The standard 5000 hour training was endured and he passed out and became a fully qualified mechanic in 1973 Although the hours spent was at the time a great sacrifice he has found it a great experience to draw from over the years. Soon after passing his time he was promoted at first to foremen and then to workshop controller.

Looking to expand his knowledge and expertise the next step in his career was to move his toolbox across town to Archer & Lupp ( later to become Jaguar Services Wellington )as the workshop foreman.

The next move came in 1978 when a move to sunny California was the ticket. Soon after settling in he met an Englishman who had similar background and experiences. A friendship developed and together soon decided to open their own business. Borrowing a floor jack and axle stands from his roommate Bill, soon they were ready to open British European Auto at 1529 S. Pacific Ave. San Pedro in September 1980.

Bernie's other interests included sidecar racing and he built and raced a custom "Outfit" winning many races in and around California. Running a full race 1325cc Kawasaki motor it was quite a handful and gave many an interesting outing for the British European Road Race team.