Tax Day Truckin': How Buying A Re-Engineered Classic Truck Can Boost Your Brand and Bottom Line W/ IRS Section 179

Why settle for arriving at a site visit or client meeting in a plain white work truck when you could show up in a striking, conversation-starting, brand-elevating vehicle? Thanks to specific tax incentives offered by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), using a Re-Engineered Classic truck from Velocity Restorations as a business vehicle is not only feasible—it may be financially advantageous.

Let’s explore how a tax-deductible classic truck can serve as both a unique marketing asset and a powerful tool for financial growth. Velocity’s preferred financing partner, Woodside Credit, also provides valuable insights into how tax laws apply to classic and collector vehicles.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or legal advice. Please consult with a certified accountant or an IRS representative for comprehensive details and guidance on the applicability of any related tax incentives.

What is IRS Section 179?

Section 179 of the IRS tax code enables businesses to immediately deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment, including vehicles. This provision encourages businesses to reinvest in essential assets by making the cost of such purchases more financially manageable through significant tax savings. Under Section 179, businesses can deduct a certain amount of the cost (up to a maximum dollar amount) of eligible equipment, offering a significant incentive to buy, upgrade, or replace necessary vehicles and equipment.

To qualify for the Section 179 deduction, a vehicle must be used for business at least 50 percent of the time, and it must be purchased and put into service within the tax year. Additionally, certain vehicles can receive greater benefits under Section 179 based on weight. Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)* of over 6,000 pounds but less than 14,000 pounds are eligible for a larger deduction than lighter vehicles, as they meet the IRS’s “heavy” business use criteria. This is particularly advantageous for business owners who rely on trucks, SUVs, or vans for operations. These heavier vehicles often qualify for a complete write-off, up to the maximum limit allowed for Section 179 in the tax year, making this incentive especially relevant for industries requiring substantial or specialized vehicles.

The IRS further supports these deductions with a bonus depreciation provision. By combining Section 179 with bonus depreciation, businesses can write off a significant portion—or even the entire purchase cost—of a qualifying vehicle within the year it is purchased. This can drastically reduce the initial financial impact, allowing business owners to quickly recoup a portion of their investment.

*GVWR is the maximum safe weight of a fully loaded vehicle, including the weight of passengers, cargo, and payload.

Three Key Tax Questions to Discuss With Your CPA

• Business Use Requirement: The vehicle must be used for business purposes more than 50% of the time. Personal use may reduce or negate eligibility for the deduction.
• Annual Deduction Limits: Section 179 offers immediate expensing, but there are annual caps. Ensure your purchase aligns with the latest IRS guidelines.
• GVWR Requirements: While many vehicles can qualify for business-related deductions, those with a GVWR between 6,001 and 13,999 pounds typically yield the greatest benefits.

Re-Engineered Classic Trucks As A Strategic Business Asset

The 6,000-pound GVWR threshold presents an exceptional opportunity for business owners who appreciate classic vehicles. Many classic trucks, particularly those restored and modernized by Velocity, meet or exceed this specification. This allows you to take advantage of substantial tax deductions while leveraging the distinct visual appeal of a vintage vehicle to reinforce your brand identity.

Any truck can get you to and from meetings and/or job sites, but a Re-Engineered Classic Truck from Velocity becomes a mobile marketing tool. Whether pulling up to a client’s office, parked as a display vehicle at a trade event, or rolling up to the valet for a business lunch, such a truck creates conversations and leaves memorable impressions. In today’s digital landscape, a visually appealing vehicle can also boost your brand’s presence on social media. Photos and videos featuring your truck are likely to generate engagement, capturing the attention of both potential clients and enthusiasts. Consumers increasingly gravitate toward brands that display authenticity and character—and few assets communicate that better than a unique, well-built classic vehicle.

Furthermore, unlike conventional vehicles that depreciate rapidly, many classic trucks hold or even appreciate in value. This potential for long-term value retention makes restomods a practical consideration as well as an emotional investment.

Help Your Business Stand Out With A Velocity Modernized Classic

Restored classic trucks can be an excellent choice for businesses looking to make a memorable impression, and Velocity Restorations offers numerous options. While Velocity builds seven modernized classics, the Ford F-250,  Chevy K5 Blazer, Chevy K10, and International Scout II meet the requirements to help you maximize this tax incentive to its fullest potential. Choosing classic truck restomods such as these not only helps with marketing and brand visibility, but these trucks are also extremely practical as each truck is reimagined for modern performance, comfort, and reliability—ideal for those who demand more than a traditional work vehicle. We also simplify the buying process by accepting trade-ins and offering financing solutions through trusted partners like Woodside Credit.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating a classic truck into your business strategy could be both a rewarding passion project and a financially savvy move. The vehicle you choose can be one of the most impactful and creative assets you can purchase for your business. Such an investment isn’t just a tax-advantaged asset; it could also become a statement of your brand’s identity and a dynamic marketing tool.

Because tax regulations can be complex and subject to change, consulting with a qualified accountant or tax advisor is important to fully understand how Section 179 and bonus depreciation apply to your unique situation. With the right guidance and vehicle choice, the idea of using a classic restomod truck as a legitimate business asset isn’t just a dream—it can become a strategic reality.