The Story of Cars in Cuba: Then and Now

From December 19th onwards, Cuban citizens have been able to freely buy and sell cars, but it is the vintage cars that truly make up the poetic charm of this country.

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The Cuban government announced on December 19th its decision to adjust its policies, whereby the government agrees to open up the retail market for various modes of transportation, including motorcycles, cars, trucks, and small buses, at market prices. Cuban citizens will now be able to buy and sell new and used cars imported by state-owned companies without the need for a permit from the Ministry of Transportation.
This decision represents a step towards greater openness compared to 2011 when the Cuban government allowed certain special groups to buy and sell cars but required them to have a permit from the Cuban Ministry of Transportation.
Previously, Cuban citizens were only allowed to freely buy, sell, or transfer vehicles manufactured before 1959. This created a unique urban landscape in Cuba, where vintage cars from the 1950s still run on the streets, showcasing both their nostalgic beauty and the challenges faced by these aging machines.
There are still many Russian Lada cars, modern Peugeot and Kia cars, but all of them are “blue-plated” state-owned vehicles, not available for buying and selling in the free market. One interesting fact about Cuba is that whenever a Cuban citizen waves down a blue-plated car for a ride, the car must stop and give them a lift, unless there are no empty seats.
Vintage cars give cities like Havana a very distinctive look in the eyes of foreign tourists, especially Americans. Photographer Stain Papior from Autocar UK was amazed when he saw American cars from the 1950s and 1960s driving around the streets of Havana, as if he were transported back to Detroit several decades ago.
Vintage cars are used as private taxis in order to attract tourists for short trips or for photo opportunities.
“The cars here still retain their original details, such as the frame, rims, fenders, and decorative elements,” enthusiastically said Stain Papior.
Of course, tourists are often captivated by the sight of vintage cars here, while the people of Havana themselves long for the opportunity to use newer, safer, and more fashionable cars rather than the old machines that have been part of their lives for generations.
Here are some images of vintage cars in Cuba, captured by photographer Stain Papior from Autocar UK:

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