When a vehicle has to do something on camera, rather than simply sit in the frame, the planning changes. CarSeen sources action vehicles for productions across the UK: cars, vans, 4x4s and working vehicles that drive, arrive, chase, tow or carry cast through a scene.
What we mean by action vehicles
In the UK, “action vehicles” is often used for any vehicle that appears on screen. When we use it, we mean vehicles with a job to do in the scene, for example:
- a car driven by cast in a tracking or low-loader shot
- a delivery van pulling up in the background of every take
- a 4x4 crossing a muddy field in a rural drama
- a convoy of matching vehicles for a road sequence
- a working vehicle that needs to look used and lived-in
You can browse cars, vans and 4x4s in our catalogue of thousands of vehicles.
Planning a driving scene
A vehicle that moves on camera needs more thought than one that's parked. Before we confirm a booking, we talk through:
- Who's driving: the owner, a cast member, or the production's precision or stunt drivers.
- How much driving: a few passes in front of camera, or a full day of repeated runs.
- The surface: roads, gravel, grass and mud all suit different vehicles.
- Reliability: we favour vehicles that start easily and are happy to be driven for long periods.
Doubles and matching vehicles
If a scene needs a vehicle in two places at once, or the risk of damage is high, a matching double can save a shoot. We search for pairs that match on model, colour and trim where they exist, and tell you honestly when they don't.
Across the UK
We find vehicles near your location wherever possible. For classics with a story to tell, see our classic car hire for filming page, and for London shoots, see picture car hire in London.
Guide: Picture cars vs action vehicles.
FAQ
What's the difference between a picture car and an action vehicle?
The terms overlap and are often used to mean the same thing. Broadly, a picture car is any vehicle seen on camera, while an action vehicle has something to do in the scene.
Do you provide stunt drivers?
Stunt and precision driving is handled by the production's stunt team or specialist drivers. We make sure the owner knows exactly what's planned before the vehicle is booked.
Can you find two identical vehicles?
Sometimes. It depends on how common the vehicle is. We'll search for a match and tell you how close it is.
Got a scene that needs a vehicle to perform?