Episode 1
Episode 1
1h
A look at European cars: the VW Beetle, the Trabant, the Wartburg 353, the Fiat 500, the Fiat 124 and the Lada which was based on the Fiat 124.
Where to watch James May's Cars of the People
TV series
James May's Cars of the People
20142 seasons7.8 / 10
James May takes a look at the 'peoples car'. Covering every form of cars for the masses - from the Beetle to the Kei Car, May looks at the many forms of people's car, their origins and their effect on history. Each episode covers a particular theme; these being cars from dictatorships, microcars and the dream cars we aspire to.
Streaming, rental and purchase options
Where to watch in United States
Checked Jul 22, 2026
James May's Cars of the People is available to stream on Pluto TV and The Roku Channel in United States. You can also buy it from Amazon, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home. Use the direct links below to open the provider.
Synopsis
James May takes a look at the 'peoples car'. Covering every form of cars for the masses - from the Beetle to the Kei Car, May looks at the many forms of people's car, their origins and their effect on history. Each episode covers a particular theme; these being cars from dictatorships, microcars and the dream cars we aspire to.
Season 1 episodes
Choose an episode, then use the watch options above for the show.
Episode 2
Episode 2
1h
A look at two extremes: the massive American gas-guzzling "automotive palaces" with their excess of chrome and fins, and the low-powered three-wheeler microcars which could be driven without a driving licence or on a motorbike licence.
Where to watch James May's Cars of the People
Episode 3
Episode 3
1hfinale
James continues to take a look at the examination of the social significance of cars by taking a look at how aspiration and new wealth were behind the development of some of the greatest cars ever built.
Where to watch James May's Cars of the PeopleEpisode information updated Jul 24, 2026
More about James May's Cars of the People
Cast
James MaySelf - PresenterProduction details
- Status
- Ended
- Series type
- Documentary
- Episodes
- 6
- Original language
- English
Networks & production
BBC TwoUnited Kingdom
BBCUnited Kingdom
Themes
automobile
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