You don't have much of a mental filter, do you? In addition to the algorithms, there are about 100,000 lines of code that would need to be replicated or outright stolen. As for utility patents, they cost between $6,000 and about $30,000, depending on whether they're U.S. or world-wide. I've got 10 utility patents, so I've got a small idea what I'm talking about.

The main chips that we're using now for development aren't even available commercially. My honest intent is to make a "prosumer" product. That means no mil-spec connectors, no bullet-proof cases and a costly build booklet that follows each build. And a price in the $350 range. These parts will be for the enthusiast. My real intent for the Twist Logic box is to improve the driver as much or more than the vehicle. This has been a multi-year process that is coming to a head this year. The Catfish was to be a means to show off the Twist Box, but the car is turning out so well that it might be the other way around.

 

I don't mean to get into a pissing match about who's mental filter is wonky at all. I think the tube frame is amazing and is a great direction for the Miata community to head. I also think going with DOM over chromoly is a great decision on a basis of cost and complexity.

I was simply stating my opinion that it seems like a huge risk for your "multi-year automobile-world-changing" to not be patented, especially when you just claimed having lots of experience patenting similar objects.

Please, continue the awesomeness of tube building and black boxing.

 

Appreciate. I've simply found that if you have just one idea, you'd better patent it. I prefer to build new and not look back. Let the copycats catch up, and realize that true sportsmen will buy the real thing because they realize it will lead to new products. Honestly, I'm doing this for me and enjoying every second. The Miata group seems like a bunch of cool guys who aren't in it for the glory or the status, but because they truly love driving and customizing their rides. I like that.

 

Happy Easter everyone! I'm going dark for about a week as we're taking a little vacation, but I assure you that movement on the cars continues.

The car bodies will begin being cnc machined next week.
Swift springs brought in from Japan were set up with re-valved Bilsteins and our own spring perch and shock top setup.

We started a new engine project involving some 6061 T6 cnc-machined aluminum, some aluminunized carbon fiber and a few other tasty bits that should release some ponies. Or at least look awesome.

And it also seems that we've caught the interest of a company at the Monterey Historics this August. It looks like we'll be bringing at least one car there, and potentially offering the first car for sale through Mecum, the largest auction house in the world. Anyone ready to pull their pocket books out?

So here it is guys--the BIG reveal, finally. Like it?

 

Green like the Easter egg I just opened...

 

You are welcome to park this in my garage while its in town. I'll need the keys though, so I can... move it...

Can't wait to see this thing in person! Glad to hear you are taking a break, sounds like its well deserved.

 

Monterrey Barrett Jackson auctions, is that the one where Steve Matchett commentates for?

Props if you get him to mention MiataTurbo.net during the auction.

 

The car will go through Mecum auctions, which is actually a much, much larger operation. Dana Mecum just opened a small West Coast office in Laguna Beach, and I expect their operation will be doing much more on the West coast in the near future.

I think the dates are August 16-18 at the Hyatt Monterey.

 

Back from vacation tomorrow, and will show more renderings.

I also have some updates and pictures on mule #1.

Hang on....

 

KTM Orange?

 

Chrome! Chrome!

 

I LOVED the chrome look, until I found out that Justin Bieber bought a Fisker last week and had it painted chrome.

This render has a bit of chrome, and what I consider to be the modern version of British Racing Green.

 

I am interested to see the pictures you said you have of the first one.

 

So speaking of chrome, this guy shows an interesting process.



C

 

The car went through development stages, and then a "hand-off" when Greg Tada started to get dumped on by his real job at Suzuki.

He "drew" the original sketch on an iPad, over an existing Miata so that it had the right basic proportions. From there we started working with a rendering program (Maya) and tried a many different styles with the car. We added slots, ribs, wings, and all sorts of things. After a few false starts I simply said, "Stop. Lets go back and just render it just like the original drawing."

That was about the time that Greg was getting slammed with work. An incredible company called Zukun plan stepped in. Shawn Whetstone of Zukun was asked to take Greg's drawing and existing rendering, and continue the work. These are the guys who drew the RCR Nemesis, what I consider the most beautiful exocar made.

Long story short--this is the rendering that was built over the original. I have older renderings that go off in different directions, but these are the ones that best represent the original design of the car, while still allowing room for little things like an engine, seats, steering wheel....you get it.

 

I don't know who you are, but I like you.

 

I'm feeling a little disturbed right now...you know, about the kitten in your picture.

 

There are a couple of companies that are making chrome paint now. Spectra Chrome was first (or second). One of the types takes a custom spray gun with twin nozzles. There's another that can be sprayed on normally (forgot all the names) but I've heard that results vary. Colors are added just like candy paint jobs now, except the base is chrome instead of a silver.

I wanted to do aluminum spars on the side of the Sonic 7 I'm building.

 

Don't worry, the cat is just receiving its power from the turbo overlords. It is a peaceful cat.

 

Love the racing green

"turbo overlords" I dont even....