The Messerschmitt Returns

[rogwild]

Just saw this:
http://www.treehugger.com/files/2009/03/swedish-three-wheeler-looks-like-a-bubble-car.php

The first out, three-wheeled two-seater Smite, as it is currently called, weighs just 130 kilos (286 lbs.) and will cost under 50,000 Swedish crowns ($5,500),
If it gets 2ltr/100km that would be about 117mpg!!!!!
It doesn't 'tilt', but they say there will be flex-fuel and electric models. They plan on selling in Sweden, starting this summer, wonder if they will ever get to the US?
http://www.treehugger.com/Smite-View-Two.jpg
http://www.treehugger.com/Separated-at-birth-three-wheelers.jpg

Dig the 'camouflage'.

[MVRacing]

Saw one of the originals on the road not long ago!

[rogwild]

I've always wanted one, ever since I lived in Germany in the 60's. If they come to the US and are really only $5,500; I may just have to get one for 'Old Time's Sake', to run errands around town. Since the body AND chassis is made of composites, should last a 'lifetime', even in the Florida 'salt air'. Only thing that worries me.....with that 'green house', no AC in Florida would be a 'killer' in the summer!

[Miracleman89]

I love the concept bu 56mph is just a bit underpowered for me! I want something that can hit highway speeds!!

[rogwild]

Yes, this is strictly an 'around town' vehicle; besides being a 'non-tilter', I'd be concerned about 'roll-over' doing high speed sharp turns .

[Miracleman89]

With it's low center of gravity, I don't think I would be all to concerned about roll over. You would just drive it carefully and beside after your first few days of driving it, you would learn it's limitations!

[rogwild]

Perhaps, but with any 'non-tilter', especially a 3-wheeler, 'rollover' should always be a concern.

[Miracleman89]

yeah but at the same time the Messerschmitt would also be very light. So it would probably not have the kind of grip to flip like that. I think it would be more like skipping a rock across a pond. I think it would just kind of bounce and slide! But yes you should still be cautious!

[Jack Willard]

I've always wanted one, ever since I lived in Germany in the 60's.

Ditto. And I also had a keen eye on those BMW motorcycles with sidecar (best with a machine gun in the sidecar! ypslj:kes;7(). I too lived in Germany in the 60's. Wouldn't trade THAT experience for anything.

[tugboatwilly]

As I am going to be a Gypse this week probably for the rest of my life (RV'er) a little unit at that kind of price might work well for 40% of the country. Can I get one with scales?

[rogwild]

As I am going to be a Gypse this week probably for the rest of my life (RV'er) a little unit at that kind of price might work well for 40% of the country. Can I get one with scales?
Probably so, TBW. They said that they plan to have a 'stripped' basic version, with a bunch of 'add on' options. One listed in the interview was custom 'body skins' like the 'Camouflage Landscape' shown. Fish 'scales', or a Hammerhead Shark, would be interesting.

The BIG PROBLEM, will be getting them in the USA. Probably as far down the road as the Persu Hybrid. Perhaps NEXT summer (2010), if the 'release date' for the PH is not set, I may take a little 'vacation' over to Sweden and pick one up; spend the summer 'touring' around and end up in some 'port' in Spain or Italy, and have it shipped back to the US. I can always 'DREAM'!

[rogwild]

The 'SMITE' has a new website:
http://www.mysmite.com/

[Derwin]

I'm sorry, I don't make a "habit" of saying things like this, but that is one incredibly horrible looking vehicle. This is one of those occasions where I just had to express my feelings, just as I've done only a couple other times. I just don't see that being a true success in the marketplace, even if it does ever get there.

My opinion, of course.

Derwin

[rogwild]

I'm sorry, I don't make a "habit" of saying things like this, but that is one incredibly horrible looking vehicle. This is one of those occasions where I just had to express my feelings, just as I've done only a couple other times. I just don't see that being a true success in the marketplace, even if it does ever get there.

My opinion, of course.

Derwin

Yes, your opinion; but the original Messerschmitt that was produced from 1955-1964 sold many THOUSANDS (12,000 the first year alone).
note: (that first year is 12,000 MORE than VV/PM has produced so far.)
It would go over 100 km/h and got 87 mpg with a 200cc engine (that was 50 years ago)! Many vintage Messerschmitts have sold for over 10,000 euros today.

At 50,000 Swedish coronas (their 'anticipated' sale price of about $5,500 US) that is cheaper than many current motorcycles, better gas mileage, and a DRY ride.
NOT for EVERYONE, but an interesting 'ride'.

If they release their production model this summer, as anticipated, I may just take a "European Vacation", fly over to Sweden, buy one, drive the continent for a month or two, and ship it home. (then .....w.a.i.t...... for the Persu Hybrid to 'appear')

[Miracleman89]

Well, I kind of like the Messerschmitt! Although, I think I will pass on the pink Hawaiian flower paint scheme!!!! LMAO

[Derwin]

Well, to me there is just not one thing "unique" about the thing. It does not tilt. It has 2 wheels up front, and would most likely drive just like any other vehicle. And, to top it off, you caged in a small box! No. Not something that I would care to buy.

But, you know what? Some hate the Hummer! But I actually LOVE the HU2. Go figure!

I guess that's one of the reasons there's so many different style vehicles on the market.

Derwin

[RAN]

I have to go with Derwin on this one. That thing is Fugly!

[rogwild]

I have to go with Derwin on this one. That thing is Fugly!

Hummm......and the FRONT end of a Carver One isn't???:LOL:
For 1/4 the proposed cost of the Persu Hybrid, guess I can't expect it to be a work of 'art' and also to 'tilt'.

[dr4]

The BMW Isetta was a better buy and won in class in several events like the Mille Miglia. Ther's hope that they will build it again: http://tag160.com/lp160/cool-car-stuff/frank/images/bmw-isetta-2.jpg

[voyager]

What would be a real rebirth... or perhaps I should say 'spiritual successor' to the Messerschmitt or BMW Isetta is this so-called Space-Efficient Vehicle that was put on display at the Detroit Auto Show (still only drawings):

http://bp2.blogger.com/_Mvhjidbvdzc/SA7NAnQ0xBI/AAAAAAAAEx4/2LCUVZYXopg/s200/ss1.jpghttp://bp2.blogger.com/_Mvhjidbvdzc/SA7NAnQ0xCI/AAAAAAAAEyA/B8AvUcXKkuU/s200/ss2.jpg

There's more info at: http://www.michelinchallengedesign.com/MCD_2008/Site/mcd_gallery_2008/mcd_2008_gallery_d13.asp

[Derwin]

Now that's not bad looking at all, Vogager.

By the way, welcome to the club! wel;co;m;e101))

I especially like the convertible model. I would have no problem picking one of those up and driving it.

But, still, no tilting involved. Personally, I wan to "Fly The Road" in a tilting vehicle!

Derwin

[voyager]

Thanx, Derwin. Second picture is an exploded view, depicting that this layout will allow for comfortable seating for three grown-ups, whose heads cannot slam onto each other in case of side impacts, as well as providing far better visibility to the driver... Oh yeah. That's one more than the Smart For2 is offering...


http://imagesme.net/tuvie/space-efficient-vehicle5.jpg


No tilt involved nor necessary: active damping, a center of gravity lower than the wheel hubs and co-steering rear wheels (at speeds higher than 35 mph) would eliminate side-sweeping or toppling over. Rear wheels (plural), that's correct: they're clustered closely around the swing arm. This would allow the driver to pursue his/her course despite one run flat, as well as dramatically reducing aquaplaning (compared to one big fat rear tire).

PS: I'd prefer riding my BMW R80 if I want to have my vehicle to tilt during cornering. There are more attributes to the Space-Efficient Vehicle btw.

[voyager]

Hm, heard the sad news last week here in Holland that Vandenbrink will no longer pursue production of the Carver and is planning to concentrate on its engineering activities. Perhaps time for a big turnaround operation? Reverse the three-wheel layout and settle for a little less tilt... No?... Oh well...

[slowblast]

michelinchallengedesign.c...allery_d13.asp

I allways thought dang things looked like bug-eyed toads. It's comforting to see that they kept the trade mark image. The same bug-eyes look now with nostrules.. I guess that why I like 1f2r, it's not a tadpole.

[voyager]

The SEV's front was purposefully kept 'neutral' so brands might fill in their trademark front looks which a lot of times is about grilles, the shape of the lights, etc. But I do agree it's not in sinc with the total appearance of the SEV. Any suggestions?

[rickb]

Hi Voyager..............I would like to be flying the road on a BMW R80 too but it's physically impossible not to mention issues of safety, comfort, and exposure to the elements. That is why the tilt factor is so important on the enclosed three wheeler which allows me to experience the lean of a cycle...the fun factor.

Since the appeal of an enclosed tilting three wheeler is in fact the lean/feel of riding a cycle along with the safety and climate control of a car why isn't the stabilized cabin high performance MonoTracer motorcyle as appealing? As a motorcycle enthusiast do you have any personal knowledge of or experience with the the Swiiss built MonoTracer or ETracer X-Prize competitor. I am going to be to old to get into a tilting three wheeler by the time one makes it to the marketplace. Peraves MonoTracer has a plan and the interest to mass produce this proven vehicle making it more affordable providing acceptance. Your opinion please. Thanks.

[voyager]

Yeah, I see what you mean. Here's my R80.... looking a bit like a cafe racer.
http://www.cafeboxer.com/WebScrapings/images/1986r80rt-ralphpanhuyzen.jpg http://p1.bikepics.com/pics/2004%5C06%5C08%5Cbikepics-162374-320.jpg

[rickb]

Voyager........your R80 is sweet but you failed to give me your opinion of the MonoTracer www.monotracer.com (http://www.monotracer.com)

[rickb]

Hey Derwin..........I would be interested in your opinion regarding the Monotracer as well. If you have time google Monotracer and watch the 8 minute January 20, 2009 youtube video. I would appreciate your comments. Thanks!

[NortonF1]

@rickb:

I did a testdrive in the backseat on the Monotracer before I decided to buy the Carver. The Monotracer is an intersting machine but not easy to drive, they give You a two day instruction when You buy one.

The gearbox is electric with a switch on the handlebar, You have to manually lower and retract the electric stabilizer wheels, the wheelbase is pretty long making tight turns difficult and so on...

The Monotracer is a nice machine to cover big distances on the Autobahn fast and with relatively little fuel, but it not so funny in the city or in tight turns.

A very unique thing though!

Regards Hans

[rickb]

Hans...............thanks for the information. Did you test drive the Ecomobile or SuperEco or the actual 2009 redesigned MonoTracer version. It looks much more compact with a shorter wheelbase. The more I look at this vehicle the more intrigued I become. Although currently way out of my price range, they say a plan to mass produce would bring the price significantly lower.

[voyager]

@RickB

Yes, I have seen the Monotracer. I like its principle. I haven't rode one. Too bad vehicles like this (and the Carver) are still too expensive to be sold in enough quantities to make a difference in today's traffic. If 20 percent of the commuters would use Carver-, Monotracer- or SEV-like vehicles then it could make a difference. Lanes could be made smaller, governments may open up dedicated lanes for NTV's, 'dual-lane use' would be possible... Fuel consumption would go down dramatically, emissions too. One can envisage better space utilization as far as parking spaces concerned. Perhaps a bit futuristic today, but by 2020 it will all make perfectly sense. By then it's expected that there will be 30 percent more cars in the Netherlands that already has a very serious problem in handling today's traffic. India now has 8 cars per 1000 (in the U.S. it's 700 per 1000 I think)...

[NortonF1]

@rickb:

it was the new model, the Monotracer, but I am not sure if they actually shortened the wheelbase, I think it only appears to be shorter.