Colin's Contest Writeup

I am honored to be a finalist in the EVTV Component Givaway.  I submit my plans below, but first, a little about me.

I am an architect specializing in Building Information Modeling (BIM) philosophy and technology; however, my true passion has always been automotive.  With a long-standing history of rebuilding, maintaining, and restoring vehicles, I am a gearhead at heart.  I am also a fervent believer that we need even more progress toward EVs than OEMs can provide and that we desperately need an alternative to petroleum based transportation.

If awarded the EVTV prize, I will build an electric vehicle for the hot rod scene.  Although traditionally viewed as a gas guzzling demographic, I believe that even members of the custom car culture can be shown the power of electricity.  Historically hot rodders, by definition, look for ways to differentiate and customize their cars - what a perfect fit - alternative designs meet alternative energy!

I am evaluating two options for this build.  

 

OPTION 1:

The first is a 1939 Lincoln Zephyr / DecoRides Scrape body (http://www.decorides.com/fastbackzephyr.htm.)

Aerodynamic and eye-catching!  Evocative curves!  And more than enough space for batteries!  

The interior is simple, elegant, and understated.  Coupled with OEM innovations (i.e. Ford's soy-based foam seating, natural mohair carpeting, orange-oil low rolling resistance tires, and a host of other sustainable materials) this machine stands to usher in a new era of responsible hot rodding. 

This fiberglass kit with a chop, nosed, decked, and channeled look is a lightweight and cost effective solution.  Often EV builds are uninspiring and executed on the cheap.  I will commit additional resources to making sure this vehicle is done in a quality way and is interesting, simple, and sharp.

This Zephyr EV holds the potential to create a mouth-watering blend of aesthetic beauty and electric technology.  It will capture the attention of classic car enthusiasts who may otherwise snub electrics, environmentally conscious activists searching for an alternative to cookie-cutter OEM's, and young hipsters who are redefining counter culture and mastering the art of renegade DIY.  This concept aims to evoke an emotional response otherwise lacking in the EV community, as well as inspire others to reach for the unlimited potential of the EV movement.

 

OPTION 2:

The second option is a 1950 Mercury (http://www.acautos.com/49-50-mercury/), again in fiberglass. 

Chopped, channeled, nosed, decked, frenched, etc.  This model may have a more lasting appeal, as the style is reminiscent of 1950s and 1960s customs, and more acceptable to the hot rod community.

In either case, these options involve vehicles with similar weights and chassis.  The net effect will be comparable. 

 

Ultimately, this is about reaching out to a large, profitable, car-centric community that is known for American ingenuity, style, and raw performance.  

My mission is to build an EV which will foster an understanding of how it is possible to be "clean" and oil-independent, while remaining true to the hot rod ethos. 

As an environmentally conscious designer, I aim to expand my EV experience, while impacting both the EV market and the custom community.

I appreciate your time and consideration, and I wish all entrants the best of luck!  Regardless of which design receives the prize components, they will aid all of our efforts.  After all, "a rising tide raises all ships."

 

I managed to pipe out a few concept renders as I think through the major components and design direction...