Who we are

California Motor Academy was founded by Matt Harris to empower automotive and motorcycle enthusiasts to master the art of driving and riding, unlocking the full potential of their vehicles for a more exhilarating experience.

Growing up in northwest England as the son of a Lotus development engineer, Matt was immersed in the world of sports cars from an early age. His first driving lessons were behind the wheel of a manual transmission Lotus Elise, sparking a lifelong passion for high-performance vehicles. Over the years, Matt has not only competed in both amateur and professional racing events, but has also honed his skills in customizing, tuning, and building custom motorcycles.

An accomplished racer, Matt is a karting champion in the UK’s Club 100 series and has received advanced driver training from renowned brands like Mercedes AMG, Abarth, Maserati, and Ginetta Racing. He’s been mentored by top-tier instructors, including former Formula One driver and five-time DTM champion, Bernd Schneider.

Matt’s love for vehicles extends beyond simply driving and riding. From restoring a classic Volkswagen Karmann Ghia to owning and enhancing a range of cars including Lotus and Porsche 911s, his expertise spans decades and styles. He’s also owned and customized an impressive array of motorcycles, from classic 1970s Hondas to modern BMWs, Triumphs, and Ducatis.

At the heart of Matt’s philosophy is the belief that the true joy of motoring comes from fully understanding your vehicle's capabilities and feeling confident in any driving environment—whether it's on winding country roads, city streets, or open highways.

All of our instructors share Matt's vision: by building confidence and skill, you can unlock the thrill and safety of every drive. Our courses are designed to help you become a more proficient, skilled, and safe driver, making your time behind the wheel as enjoyable as possible.