Not Ranked
With respects to a working prototype, if we had waited to develop one it would significantly increase the lead time. To be useful you would need to perform extensive testing with it etc. How much would that cost the business and how much would that increase the cost of each kit sold, a lot. I'm not even sure if that approach would be viable, definitely would not be viable in the current financial environment.
We are working with some of our owners to perform this testing.
We have gone with the approach of creating a flexible design that can be upgraded easily if required for owners. Aside from the extensive adjustability of the suspension, we can also send out bolt-on updates that can alter any part of the suspension architecture, any part of the suspension geometry, even adjust drivetrain mounting locations or even what type/brand components are supported etc etc. Makes it easy to send owners free upgrades if required or to upgrade or alter if their requirements change.
As mentioned the tools are there to produce a much more refined and developed product straight off the bat. We are tryng to break out of the tradition of owners refining the vehicle design and operation themselves.
I also don't believe a working prototype will significantly increase safety.
The critical aspects when it comes to safety in kit cars is all built into the chassis & body design/construction.
Well that is just my opinion, I hope it is of some interest.
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