Paul Cowland is a man with a lifelong passion for all things automotive – which has sadly affected his chances of working effectively in any other industry. A walking, talking encyclopedia of anything to do with the internal combustion process and a fervent advocate of the Wankel rotary engine, he is rarely invited to parties.
Thankfully, his boundless enthusiasm for any motorised conveyance has given him a 28 year career writing, selling, tuning, restoring, photographing and creating almost every kind of car currently known to man… as well as being the ‘go to’ guy for many of the UK’s leading automotive publishers when they need an authority on such matters.
He is widely in demand for presenting, speaking and hosting a wide range of automotive events internationally.
Having fronted up several prime-time ‘magazine’ shows for Eurosport and Motors TV, Paul Cowland signed to the Discovery Channel in 2014, where his unique blend of humour, sarcasm and realistic day rate proved to be a hit with producers. His first show, ‘Turbo Pickers’ proved to be a global hit, showcasing the more affordable end of the classic car world, picking, fixing and ‘flipping’ all manner of cars from entry-level Porsche 924s right through to automotive icons like the Citroen H van.
Paul Cowland’s latest show sees him partner with long-time friend Drew Pritchard for ‘Salvage Hunters: Classic Cars on the Quest Channel and Amazon Prime. Shown all over the world, this popular show is already six series in, with two more on the way – and showcases the finest artisanal tuning, restoration and recommissioning talent that the UK has to offer. Each episode sees two cars bought, restored and sold, via all manner of talented, small and independent specialists along the journey.
Paul has recently joined forces with another friend, Helen Stanley, to create a new series; ‘Motorpickers’ where the two help people from all walks of life to find their dream used car, demystifying the world of the motor trade and making it accessible for all.
Frequently found as a live presenter at car shows throughout Europe, Paul has hosted all manner of events, from giants like Japfest and Trax, through to smaller, more provincial car club events. The size never matters, it’s simply the cars and the people that draw him in.
Paul’s corporate presenter work has included front campaigns for names like Subaru, Isuzu, Toyota and Lexus, both with filmed, live and launch content. Able to work unscripted for hours at a time, he once even managed 26 hour non-stop commentary stint at the Nurburgring 24 hour race for Vodafone! He’s also been the voice-over talent behind many automotive advertising campaigns.
As a card-carrying race driver, Paul can pedal almost as fast as he can talk, and is well versed at competing on behalf of a brand while delivering a presenter’s role with social media interaction.
He also currently has 59 classic and interesting cars in various states of disrepair, two cats called Lola and Dodge… and a very understanding wife and daughters…
Professional (always)… Punctual (always)…Expert (genuinely knows his stuff inside and out and has covered for my lack of expertise on numerous occasions!)
But, the biggest compliments for me? Paul is a big man bursting with ideas & jam packed with positivity… a team player who makes filming fun.
JC Megson. Series Producer, Workerbee TV – ‘Motor Pickers’ & ‘World’s Greatest Cars’… Discovery
“Paul is a pleasure to work with. He is professional, punctual and polite. Paul is always respectful of the crew and the efforts that go on behind the scenes within a production. I have enjoyed his collaborative approach on location”
Chris Kershaw. Series Director, Salvage Hunters Classic Cars
‘Paul is an utter joy to work with. He brings infectious energy and humour to every shoot and is terrific at getting the best out of those around him. He’s always superbly well prepared and has a depth of knowledge and passion for the subject that shine bright on screen. I hope to work with him again very soon.’
John Widdup. Series Producer, Salvage Hunters Classic Cars