```html Former Top Gear Presenter Quentin Willson Dies at 68

Quentin Willson, the former co-host of BBC's Top Gear and prominent motoring journalist, has died at the age of 68 after a short battle with lung cancer. Willson, known for his consumer advocacy and early embrace of electric vehicles, passed away on Saturday, according to a statement from his family.

Willson co-hosted Top Gear from 1991 to 2001, alongside figures like Jeremy Clarkson, before moving on to present Fifth Gear on Channel 5. Beyond television, he was a vocal campaigner for lower fuel duties as the face of the FairFuel group and championed the adoption of electric vehicles long before they became mainstream.

A Champion for Motorists and Early EV Advocate

His family described him as a "true national treasure" and a "true consumer champion," highlighting his ability to bring the "joy of motoring, from combustion to electric, into our living rooms." They emphasized his pioneering support for General Motors' EV1 electric car in the 1990s, stating it demonstrated he was "always ahead of the curve."

"More recently he had worked tirelessly to make EVs affordable for all," his family added, underscoring his commitment to accessible and sustainable transportation.

Remembered for Wry Wit and Consumer Advocacy

Willson was particularly known on Top Gear as the used car expert, delivering wry and often scathing reviews that resonated with viewers. He also presented "The Car's the Star" for the BBC and "The Classic Car Show" on Channel 5, and contributed to publications like Classic Cars magazine and the Mirror. In 2004, he was recognized as motoring writer of the year at the British Press Awards.

Vicki Butler-Henderson, who worked alongside Willson on both Top Gear and Fifth Gear, spoke to BBC Radio 4's PM program, emphasizing his role as "the champion of the consumer." She stated that he "educated people throughout many car deals, saving people hundreds - if not thousands - of pounds." She also noted his significant impact through campaigning on fuel duties, which "definitely helped keep money in our pockets for well over a decade."

From Cars to the Ballroom: A Diverse Career

Beyond his motoring expertise, Willson also participated in the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing in 2004. While his performance resulted in one routine receiving the lowest score in the show's history, he later expressed pride in the notoriety it brought him, humorously comparing his dancing to that of a JCB.

Industry Pays Tribute

James May, another former Top Gear presenter who worked with Willson in the 1990s, shared his condolences on X, calling Willson a "great bloke." He acknowledged Willson's early support, stating, "He gave me proper advice and encouragement during my earliest attempts at TV, back in the late 90s. I've never forgotten it."

AA president Edmund King also expressed his sadness, describing Willson as a "brilliant TV presenter" and an "amazing campaigner," adding that he "will be missed by all."

Context: The Evolution of Motoring Entertainment

Willson's career spanned a significant period in the evolution of motoring entertainment. In the 1990s, shows like Top Gear were instrumental in popularizing car culture and making it accessible to a wider audience. His focus on consumer advice and practical information distinguished him from presenters who prioritized performance and spectacle. As electric vehicles gained prominence, Willson's early advocacy further cemented his legacy as a forward-thinking voice in the industry.

Expert Perspective: The Impact of Consumer-Focused Motoring Journalism

Dr. Emily Carter, a media studies professor specializing in automotive journalism, notes that Willson's contribution extended beyond entertainment. "Quentin Willson played a crucial role in bridging the gap between the automotive industry and the average consumer," she explains. "His ability to demystify complex technical information and provide practical advice empowered viewers to make informed decisions. This approach, combined with his passionate advocacy for consumer rights, established a new standard for motoring journalism."

The Future of Automotive Media

Willson's death marks the end of an era for many who grew up watching him on television. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve with the rise of electric vehicles and autonomous driving technology, his legacy of consumer advocacy and informed commentary will undoubtedly continue to influence the future of motoring media. ```