What the ENTHUSIASTS would like to see in our new Persu Hybrid

[Firedawg]

Now that we know that our dream is alive and the vehicle is back on the design table (as it were), lets collectively gather our design ideas and see if we can get some of them integrated in to our "baby".

Some of the things I personally would like to see:

1) Build the vehicle from the CUSTOMERS PERSPECTIVE! If you pay heed to anything on this page, PLEASE, this is the one that needs to happen. Too many cars have great features but they are clearly designed on paper and then tested in the virtual environment. When we get in to today's cars they last for maybe 5 years before they just start to fall to pieces. From cheap plastic parts to even cheaper manufacturing shortcuts. The Persu Hybrid is to be the flagship of a new era in driving. Build a vehicle that we can have to pass on to our children. This will have every eye on the road on it everywhere it goes. Make it rugged and tough with sleek looks. Give us a solid feel under our feet and skip the floor mat altogether. Rhinoline the bottom or something giving more sound proofing and protecting the floor as well. Give us something that we can look back on in 30 years and say, "boy they just don't make 'em like this anymore".

2) Double shoulder seat belt harness. one that is modeled after a real jet fighter seat belt. The ones that have the twist release in the center. Cool factor and added safety in the same package. Win/win.

3) Blind spot mirrors/cheaters. We have heard that the Carvers have a very nasty blind spot. I think that can be somewhat mitigated by putting what I have always called "cheaters" on the side mirrors. Don't just stick them on the existing mirrors like we can buy for under a buck at Autozone but actually integrate them in to the design of the mirror assembly unit. Make them big enough to actually be worth a darn. I know that cameras or something would be cooler but we are trying to keep this sucker under 20K and why solve a simple problem with an overly expensive solution. NASA spent over a million dollars to design a pen that could write in space.....the Soviets solved the problem of writing in space with a two cent pencil.

4) Built in GPS/NAV dash unit. The key here that designers may not keep in perspective is that most GPS units have to be updated periodically to get the most current roads and such. If that upgrade is cost prohibitive then many folks just can't afford to update it. Make it easy to update and big enough to see. A clear, distinctive voice that can be understood. As I get older I find that the gal on the turn-by-turn is harder to understand.

5) A MANUAL OPTION!!!! Please, for the love of all that is holy, do not give us our dream vehicle, and condemn us to a mandatory automatic transmission. Let us really get in to the feel of the flight. Offer it as an upgrade on a sport package or something. It could be on the side like where the auto shifter is planned to be or even paddle shifters on the steering wheel like the race cars have.

6) Quiet it down. In a hybrid car this small road noise is going to be a big deal. First a foremost is the sound of the wind from the edges of the door. With the door that close the seal along the door will either keep the wind outside and quiet or it will let us hear it over our music. Personal pet peeve here. I also can't stand driving and feeling a little gust of outside air from some mystery "chink in the armor" if you will. Warm and toasty from the heater inside but with a tiny little frosty breeze coming from who-knows-where and causing me to shiver.

7) Don't go crazy with the newest tech. Look I am a self-admitted tech addict. I manage computers, servers and networks all day long. I love the newest gadget and gizmos. The problem is that for everything that is added to the inside of the vehicle it takes up space, and more importantly, it is one more thing that can break requiring it to be replaced.

8) The most important window....the windshield. Nothing makes you angrier than driving down the road and getting smacked by a rock that puts a nice star in your front windshield. Isn't there a way by now to put a coating of thicker plastic on the outside of the window to absorb and deflect a rock? I mean if my iPod can have a screen protector, why can't my front window?

9) Sound system. The sound system is a must for many drivers these days. I know that this car will appeal to the younger crowd and the sound has to be good coming from the speakers. Most little sports cars throw an 8" sub behind the seat and call it good. Might be about the right size for the size of the vehicle but if there is any way to fit a 10", that will make it even better. I know they make a GPS/head unit combo that controls all the audio in the car. That is a great idea for this car as any space reducing or consolidating techniques can make or break the feel of the interior. Integrated Bluetooth for the cell phones is very common for those units as well. That will get you a big nod from the folks in Cali. Audio in for the iPods and such is almost standard on these types of units so that is a plus. Most importantly is to have the controls for the volume/mute/answer phone call and such on the steering wheel. Leaning forward to play with stuff could cause an accident.

10) PLEASE SEE #1. Can not stress that enough. Please do not give us a "plastic toy" that will fall apart round us.

I do not think I need to mention the self-leveling cup holder. If the guys at Persu have not gotten the hint by now, there might be no hope for it.

[beeson]

Point #5, I'm hoping the hybrid will be an electric motor driven vehicle with the gas motor just for recharging the battery. If that happens they may not even need a transmission. That saves weight and cost. Plus the gas motor can be tuned to maximum efficiency.

[TOSS]

WOW Firedawg you obviously put a lot of thought into that. When I read the thread I started thinking and came up with things only to read the next line and find you already nailed it. With due regard you might want to rethink the rhino liner. I live where we have winter and Im here to tell you that when you add cold and wet to that amazing product you end up lying in the snow next to your rig. Otherwise I agree with each and every thing you brought to the front. Have a good day. TOSS

[Jack Willard]

Discussing what features we want, and having someone at the company actually read it and comment back, is what drew me to the vehicle in the first place. What an unheard-of concept that was. It sucked me right in. Now if something like that would happen again, enthusiasm would go through the roof!

Discussing these feature ideas is so much fun and actually gives us "something" to talk about that gets us all interested again.

I love the idea of having my cake and eating it too, when it comes to vehicle sound. How about a switch for "dead quiet" or "fighter jet with afterburners ON"? Select your fun by the moment. It also selects "inside fun" (quiet or music enhanced) or "outside fun" (show-off to others). Plus, I sure like the idea of driving in "stealth-mode".

A 4 or 5 point racing type seat belt is certainly attractive, especially after having bairly survived a rolling end-over-end crash in a sandrail less than a year ago. A very tight race harness saved my buns.

A GPS/NAV unit had better be an add-on only option though. I surely do NOT want one. What a pure waste of $$. I can always printout a map to take along should I need one. Now, a nice digital gage information display might be nice. Plain old individual gages would be perfectly okay too. (K.I.S.S. Principle)

Manual Transmission Option? Okay, for you maybe. I'll pass. My fighter jet will only have one variable speed control, just like the real thing. Now, if there was a Hayabusa engine in there, that would be a different story. I don't see there being a transmission. It's an electric motor!

Geez, the leveling cupholder thing again? Not needed. Get a sealing-top type drink cup.

More to come...

[Firedawg]

Another thing I just thought of that would be a nice addition to cold weather areas would be snow/ice tires that could be bought as an extra option. The tires for our ride will likely be a bit hard to find and some of us will want to drive year round regardless of inclement weather. An option for winter tires (maybe even the entire wheel and tire so it can just be swapped out as needed) would really make driving safer and viable for bad weather months.

One thing that has always been at the back of my mind when I watch Carver video's are how easy they look to be to hotwire and steal. I mean all the guys in the video seems to do is reach under the rear bumper and push some thing and the thing lays over at full tilt giving full access to the engine compartment. I could be totally wrong here so someone that has hands on knowledge of the Carver please confirm or deny my thought process here. Actual hands on knowledge is preferred. Car thieves already make short work of normal car alarms and jack rides in mere seconds so what is to stop them from simply tilting and taking our baby?

I would like to see a unconventional alarm system that would not just audibly sound an alarm but maybe shut down the vehicle and send a message to an email account or alarm monitoring company. Lock up the steering wheel and all three wheels outside too maybe? Right itself and lock out the tilt function to prevent access to the engine compartment too. Even starting with an alarm that would start out by locking the tilt function completely when it is activated would be the best first step I think. Barring illegal things like electrifying the exterior, or something extreme like that, what other ways could this vehicle be made more theft resistant?

[TOSS]

Love the snow tire idea. Living in the inland empire our winters are not as bad as some but spokane does get its share of snow. As far as theft goes several things come to mind. First, all security is no more than a state of mind. If a pro wants your ride its more than likely gone. Second, if you read books and articles written by reformed theives its the little things in life that agravate them. A good example is a hidden fuel cut off switch. Doesn't have to be super sneeky or inconvenient, just not at all obvious. Had one on my porsche. 3 broken windows and 1 screwed up door lock mechanism - but never got my ride out of the parking lot. Third is plain old market forces. If they steal it can they part it or import it and sell it as a unit. Well lets face it, they wont be valuable enough to sell as units --- so will the parts work on other machines and have enough value to make them worth the risk. The reality is that most pro rings steal common cars strip them down and sell the part before you can file a report. So for this to be a danger the company is going to have to make far more of them than I think they are going to be able to produce. Hope you find this insightful. TOSS

[Miracleman89]

I like the way you think TOSS... however if the cutoff switch is part of the car's optional security package it will be universally known in the auto theft world before it even hits the market. As good as the idea is, it would become more of an inconvenience then a deterrent if it was part of the vehicles optional features. Although I do like the idea of installing on aftermarket!

[wireman]

Too right, MM. Olde saying: A secret ONE person knows is a secret. A secret TWO people know is no secret. I have an interesting thought, but I don't know if it's legal. If the glass were bulletproof, you could set up the alarm system to lock your jacker in the vehicle. Then you are notified... the cops are summoned... etc. What say you?

[TOSS]

I couldn't agree more with your point on secrets. All the factory needs to install as part of the security package is an interuptor. (porbably electronic fuel injection) Then the switch is installed anyplace that isnt near fuel supply. Believe it or not mine was in the ash tray. LOL It was installed by the same guy that upgraded my sterio. God I miss that car. Anyway the hard part is done by the factory and then you just slave in the switch where you want it. Theoretically you could even cover the switch and make it a magnetic activation. Place your magnet and start your ride. Without a visible switch and installed aftermarket you wont loose more than a window or door lock assembly. Remember that all security is an illusion. If someone with skills wants it bad enough, well you get my meaning. TOSS

[Raamster]

How about having the ability to set a default 'valet' mode that locks out both speeds over 15 mph and the tilting function? Ahead of time, a password protected security program could let the owner choose among some easily reached and regularly used 'switches' already in the vehicle to create or access extra 'hidden' settings, to act as a one (or two) touch password to enable 'normal' mode.

Just don't forget which one it is.

[paulcummings55]

Fun thread- but if anything, it has shown so far that no everyone will agree on what is a good option and what is not- they will not be able to make something for everyone. My wish list:
Keep it fun
Keep it affordable
Make the car well-made; long lasting and low maintenance.

[MarkH]

Fun thread- but if anything, it has shown so far that no everyone will agree on what is a good option and what is not- they will not be able to make something for everyone. My wish list:
Keep it fun
Keep it affordable
Make the car well-made; long lasting and low maintenance.

+1

[KABII]

Just thought I'd drop in my two cents for the American Carver. My first car out of college was a 1989 Honda CRX HF. The HF had very good HWY mileage of 50-60 MPG. Handling was great. Affordability. I would like to see a ICE version of this car that is geared toward getting even better gas mileage. The CRX HF efficiency was attributed to the 8 valve engine. The American Carver should have a fuel efficient base model and the SI. The only difference should be the engine and the fuel efficiency.

I believe that this country needs a new idea like this on the road. If the new organization can make this vehicle highly affordable and offer gas mileage in the 60 to 80 MPG range depending on model they will have set the standard for the rest of the American Automobile Industry to follow. I strongly urge the company to price this vehicle to be affordable (take a little money from a lot of people).

Here's a chance at greatness. Don't miss the flight!

[josepht]

AMEN
Just thought I'd drop in my two cents for the American Carver. My first car out of college was a 1989 Honda CRX HF. The HF had very good HWY mileage of 50-60 MPG. Handling was great. Affordability. I would like to see a ICE version of this car that is geared toward getting even better gas mileage. The CRX HF efficiency was attributed to the 8 valve engine. The American Carver should have a fuel efficient base model and the SI. The only difference should be the engine and the fuel efficiency.

I believe that this country needs a new idea like this on the road. If the new organization can make this vehicle highly affordable and offer gas mileage in the 60 to 80 MPG range depending on model they will have set the standard for the rest of the American Automobile Industry to follow. I strongly urge the company to price this vehicle to be affordable (take a little money from a lot of people).

Here's a chance at greatness. Don't miss the flight!

[Jack Willard]

Great mileage would be nice. Gawd knows I could use it with a 136 miles per day commute! But you know what? I'm not worried about that with the Persu. I am sure that it will be getting some kind of nice mileage.

I am wanting some FUN here folks! Some really snappy ACCELERATION and the ability to pass some slow moving smuck like he was standing still, and watch him say "what the heck was that?" as I FLY...:burning:rubber: by him is top on my list. Not that I am playing "Speed Racer" all the time... It is just really nice to know that all it takes is a little touch on the pedal and I am GONE!

I just picked up my Yamaha Banshee quad on Saturday, after having it upgraded from a stock 38 hp to now over 70 hp. On a little bitty test drive, the slightest touch on the gas (it was in third gear I think) put it instantly into a wheelstand! I didn't have my helmet with me and it was quite cold out, so I just let off of it. Besides, the drive was on pavement and the Banshee is my "sand toy". I can hardly wait to start playing with my now REALLY FAST quad at Sand Mountain in Nevada come April. That's when a whole bunch of us go to get crazy together and have a big PARTY on a long weekend camping trip.

Anyway, I look forward to driving a really fun Persu on that ridiculous commute of mine. And I am quite jazzed up thinking about having an ICE in it. Think about it. You can always beef up the engine, right? :whoohoo:

All I am saying is that is TOP on my list. That, combined with the tilting turns, is going to be so much FUN!

[Mike kZ]

agr:1 hy:per1)

[mariner13]

agr:1:whoohoo::burning:rubber:dr:ive1) Right on Target, Jack!

[Jack Willard]

Right on Target, Jack! Yep, I knew that you and I would be on the same team. :)

Now, about the cost of a Persu: I for one want the price to be in the "affordable" range. In my mind, that tops out at about $25K to maybe $26K, no more. Frankly, in my opinion, I think the price should be more like $20K to $22K. What are your thoughts?

One of the ways to keep the costs down is to skip all of those "pie-in-the-sky" amenities, at least on a base model. A decent heating and air-conditioning system, and an AM/FM radio is my bare minimum. And a readable instrumentation cluster of course. Beyond that, additional amenities should be at add-on costs, so you can choose what is your important luxury. I might even choose one or two, depending on what it is. Maybe a USB jack for access to stored favorite music tracks...

It is the FUN built-in to the vehicle driving experience that is important to me, not a bunch of pampering high tech add-ons that people think make them look important or otherwise cater to some ego need because they are bored. I cannot imagine ever being "bored" while driving a Persu! Call me a purist. Adrenalene Junkie would be more accurate.

There are a zillion things that one could want to have for some kind of personalization. And there is nothing wrong with that. But make them add-ons. Actually, I think that it would benefit many independant small businesses to encourage an aftermarket of add-ons.

I might even make some kind of add-on AFTERBURNER thingy, just cause I would want one! Yes, I know that some stupid law will probably not permit it. But THAT would not stop me from doing it anyway!:shup:

[Necoras]

Honestly it's a bike with a cover on it. I'd prefer a price in the $10-15K range once production capacity is up and running. I'd wait a year to save 10 grand. Regardless $25k is my limit. As for base amenities, A/C is a must (Texas, not uncommon to have a month of 100+ temperatures) heating would be standard with an ICE. Radio, and CD player are pretty standard these days. Roll cage, front and side airbags. GPS would be nice, but that's what my phone is for. Bluetooth integration would be a nice optional add on. Anything above and beyond this is nice, but would just add to the cost and should be optional.

[Firedawg]

no I think $10-15K is a pipe dream for at least 5 years for a new Persu. Should it be that price, yeah, but will it be, no. They have had to pour so much effort and R&D in to designing this thing to appease the consumer, the insurance companies, the crazy Federal laws governing vehicle safety and that astounding cost of starting up a new "car" manufacturing company. No they will have no choice but to pass those start up costs to the consumers and one year is not enough time to recoup that kind of money. No we will see the price range anywhere from $22-30K for various models.

Maybe after the first year they will offer a sports version for another $5-8K more than the base model. Other than that they will be priced and that price will not budge for a while. Not sure what a used one would go for after a year. It would all depend on if they constructed them to last or if they are just another plastic play toy that the car companies seem to spit out these days. Regardless, if you could find a used Persu after a year I would be impressed. I think there will be a huge wait list in the first place and after a year I think that we might very well see that the list still has folks waiting for one.

[Necoras]

I'm sure that's less than what they will sell for. I'm just saying that if there is demand and they can ramp up production that I hope they try to make their profit through volume selling. I don't like debt, and $25k is at *least* five years of savings for me. I can probably come up with $10k within a year or so if I'm willing to forgo savings, vacations and the like, but that just won't happen if the price of the car is $30k. This isn't a toy for me; it would be a commuting vehicle and if it doesn't make economic sense I won't buy one.

If Persu wants to make a luxury car that's fine, but they need to go that route and put in all of the extras and just sell it for $50k like the original carver. If they want to really gain market share and start replacing 5-7 passenger vehicles as commuter vehicles then this needs to be a budget car that can compete with a Civic or Carola. If I can get a 1 year old car for $10-15k (much less if I'm okay with a few door dings; I know, I've done it.) why would I pay double that for half the car, no matter how fun it is to drive?

Yes the car is cool and unique, but it's also limited in its functionality. It should be priced accordingly if their goal is to "make an impact" as a replacement commuter. If that isn't their goal that's perfectly fine and I don't have a problem with it, but they shouldn't act as if it is and then price the car into oblivion.

[Raamster]

Statistics and market surveys will determine the price, I'm afraid. Some of us will become investors, and we'll want the max return the market will allow, given the capacity of the factory, which will be sized to fulfill the minimum anticipated demand. A truly base version seems like a fair third year idea, as long as it doesn't cheapen the brand, or over-complicate the assembly line, and as long as demand holds steady and all the pitfalls a new concept vehicle will need to avoid are avoided.

Getting a single version out that has no serious design flaws, works as advertised, keeps the factory busy and actually stays on track to make the investors money after the first year, will be a home run that will make everything else possible. Everything beyond that will be gravy. Any feature that isn't a deal-breaker to leave off, that isn't truly well understood, reliable to produce or isn't clearly seen to add more value than trouble, won't make it into the first run. There's a lot I hope they can leave clearance and passages for, so that later models can accept deluxe features without serious re-tooling, and so that early models have a better chance of accepting upgrades, but they can only afford to look ahead so far.

May the factory run flat-out for the first four years!

[Ronzo]

Frequently Asked Questions from the new FlytheRoad.com site

When can I get a Persu V3?
Production vehicles are targeted for a 2014 model release.

How much will the Persu V3 cost?
MSRP is targeted at $25,000.

How can I reserve a Persu V3?
Persu has a pre-registration page on the "FlyTheRoad" home page. Persu Ventures is planning on accepting purchase deposits prior to launch. Once our policy is finalized, we then intend to notify the pre-registrants and give them priority.

Will I need a motorcycle license or motorcycle helmet?
The Persu V3 is considered a motorcycle under federal regulations. However, individual states set the requirements for license and helmet laws. California, Texas, Florida and Washington already have a helmet and license exemption for enclosed 3-wheel vehicles like the V3. Persu Ventures is working with other State legislatures to enact similar exemptions for enclosed 3-wheel vehicles like the Persu V3.

How is the tilt controlled?
A Dutch company, Carver Engineering, has developed the Dynamic Vehicle Control (DVC) system for use on their Carver One three-wheeler. Persu Ventures has licensed this technology for use in the Persu Vehicles. The DVC system matches the tilt of the vehicle to the amount of steering input and vehicle speed. At slow speeds, the front wheel is turned to steer, as speed is increased the wheel turn is replaced with vehicle tilt.
How much Cargo Space?
The back seat will be designed to fold down and provide a flat cargo area, large enough to hold 'six bags of groceries' and there is a cargo shelf behind the rear passenger seat that should be able to hold a large book bag. A rooftop cargo box may be offered as an option, shaped to provide a minimal disruption to vehicle aerodynamics, and should hold about 5 cubic feet of cargo.

What about Towing a Trailer?
A number of potential customers have asked for a trailer hitch receiver to be included in the rear frame design, and this is being investigated. Towing capability would be limited, but a small motorcycle trailer may be feasible.

What passenger safety features are being considered for the Persu Vehicles?
Passenger safety features being considered are described on the Persu website and include the following: driver airbag, side-impact rails and roof roll-over protection.

[Derwin]

Most of those "Frequently asked questions" have been there for years. And Persu has had the "pre-registration" page up since 2007, so that's nothing new. Last I heard, they already have thousands of people that have pre-registered.

As we found out last month, this thing won't be coming out for a couple years, so we have time to save our money!

[NortonF1]

Hi You guys,

let me remind You that when Carver started in Europe the first price estimate was under 30.000 Euro, by the time You could order one the price had gone up to 35k plus VAT (19% in Germany) and that was without radio, spoiler or leather seats (but You couldn´t order a Carver One without leather seats)

The actual price I paid for mine was over 42.000 Euro, and the last price before they went bancrupt was 59.500 Euro! (That price did include leather, spoiler and radio)

So lets wait and see what the real V3 will cost whwn it hits the road in 2013 eventually....

Regards Hans

[Necoras]

"As we found out last month, this thing won't be coming out for a couple years, so we have time to save our money!"

I suppose, but until I'm certain that A) the thing will come to market and B) it'll actually be somewhere near that price I won't be putting money aside for it. I have a number of home improvements I need to get done that are considerably further away from the vaporware category.

[MadMatt]

I'm curious how much headroom is in the Persu and also how much room there is for a passenger. I'm 6' but in some cars, I don't have as much headroom as I would like. Also, how realistic is it for a passenger (i.e. my wife) to be comfortable (back there) for a couple hour road trip. I understand these are a bit of hypothetical questions since we don't have the vehicles, but maybe someone with experience with the Carver One cold answer.

On a side note, great job to Derwin and the rest. I've been monitoring this activity for a couple years and just saw the news on the V3. I re-registered even though I didn't need to. Hopefully that doesn't bump me down the list, but I committed to pay a $1000 down payment in 2013 for delivery in 2014 (that should keep me at the top of the list). Of course, I would want the ability to test drive before plopping down the $1k (need to make sure I have headroom and my wifey can fit in the back).

Go Packers!

[Derwin]

MadMatt... Welcome to the club! wel;co;m;e101))

Hopefully they'll be giving test drives before too long.


Go Packers!

After they beat my beloved Bears last week, my feelings for the Packers are not very good! lol

Derwin

[mariner13]

Yep, I knew that you and I would be on the same team. :)

Now, about the cost of a Persu: I for one want the price to be in the "affordable" range. In my mind, that tops out at about $25K to maybe $26K, no more. Frankly, in my opinion, I think the price should be more like $20K to $22K. What are your thoughts?

One of the ways to keep the costs down is to skip all of those "pie-in-the-sky" amenities, at least on a base model. A decent heating and air-conditioning system, and an AM/FM radio is my bare minimum. And a readable instrumentation cluster of course. Beyond that, additional amenities should be at add-on costs, so you can choose what is your important luxury. I might even choose one or two, depending on what it is. Maybe a USB jack for access to stored favorite music tracks...

It is the FUN built-in to the vehicle driving experience that is important to me, not a bunch of pampering high tech add-ons that people think make them look important or otherwise cater to some ego need because they are bored. I cannot imagine ever being "bored" while driving a Persu! Call me a purist. Adrenalene Junkie would be more accurate.

There are a zillion things that one could want to have for some kind of personalization. And there is nothing wrong with that. But make them add-ons. Actually, I think that it would benefit many independant small businesses to encourage an aftermarket of add-ons.

I might even make some kind of add-on AFTERBURNER thingy, just cause I would want one! Yes, I know that some stupid law will probably not permit it. But THAT would not stop me from doing it anyway!:shup:

I could skip the radio/stereo as an Ipod in my pocket would be good enough. Maybe not a real A/B system, but I know how to make a good "Flame On" system for the exhaust!:confused::taz::mad:science::zap2:

[Necoras]

My radio/CD player was stolen several years ago so I've been using an mp3 player/radio for my commute ever since. It's certainly usable, but I *much* prefer using my wife's car with an actual radio in it. It's also much safer to use tactile buttons over a touch screen on an ipod (or iPad as I'm using). Add to that the fact that a basic CD player would cost less than $100 and it just isn't worth the savings to leave it out.

[TOSS]

Necoras I completely agree. Stock soundsystem components wouldnt raise the price of the vehicle to any great degree and ipod jacks are not really needed because you can by an fm sender that runs off the power point and tune your radio to empty air to listen to ipod without major investment. For me the cool bit would be an inbuilt nav. I'm thinking I'll be taking this ride to places I've never been before and looking at a paper map at 20 degrees tilt doesnt sound fun to me. Honestly though Its not a deal breaker for me. Inexpensive would be best. TOSS

[mark84gti1]

I agree that the price of $25k is a little bit high, about $10k high for a limited use vehicle. If the other companies can make a compact car for $13k-$15k, then there shouldn't be any reason Persu can't do it. Especially considering that this vehicle has less: Doors,wheels,tires,wipers,seats,suspensions,door handles, lights,exhaust,carpeting, and a smaller engine.

Sure there is a lot of cost with a start up vehicle and all, such as all the stamping dies, molds, assembly fixtures and such. But all of this stuff last for at least five years, so to spread that cost out over five or tens years it should bring the price down. There are hundreds of suppliers right now that are looking for work and I'm sure they are willing to go that extra mile, such as design work, to get contracts.

[post]

as long as it has a standard din pocket for a head unit and standard size speakers, audiophiles will replace the stock stereo with whatever they prefer. i would be dismayed with any vehicle that lacked a stereo altogether, but any discontent with the stock system is just an opportunity to customize, for a tiny fraction of the cost of the car. not a big deal.

but on the subject, an ipod/usb flash memory slot with an am/fm radio would be ideal. you could skip a CD player altogether.

[Derwin]

but on the subject, an ipod/usb flash memory slot with an am/fm radio would be ideal. you could skip a CD player altogether.

Yeah, I would agree. I think CD players are becoming mostly obsolete now with all of the small digital devices out there.

[Miracleman89]

Yeah, I would agree. I think CD players are becoming mostly obsolete now with all of the small digital devices out there.

I couldn't agree more! One CD 21 songs if your lucky! One MP3 player 250 songs at minimum! Sounds pretty simple to me!

But on another note, when they bring out the hybrid version can you please look further into the in-wheel motors! PML still has a pretty good argument with there operational Ford F150 prototype with 4 in-wheel motors!! That thing is sweet and I really think that Persu Venture would be an ideal vehicle as a platform for the technology!!!!

[TOSS]

I just looked at those wheels and it looks like they have overcome a lot of problems. Technology rocks!! Full engine rebuild would be a thing of the past. With that kind of propulsion system a fuelless generator and a small battery pack suddenly seems very viable. That could be fringe to mainstream in a decade. Unlimited range, no fuel, no motor oil, repairs are as easy as changing the tire (well maybe a little more than that). I can't imagine that exxon is going to be happy about that. TOSS

[Firedawg]

But TOSS we are still missing the MOST important item!!!! Where is the FLUX CAPACITOR!?!?!?! I want my 1.21 gigawatt Persu V3 :)

I would also like the optional Mr. Fusion unit please. Mr. Levine could you please get that added on for us in the V4 maybe?

[TOSS]

Funny! 1.21 CHIGAWATTs is so much energy that even the planet's atmo can't hold it. I'm already worried about being to old to enjoy the hybrid model. If I have to wait till the nuc version comes out mine will need a compartment for the wheel chair. lol TOSS

[Firedawg]

Funny! 1.21 CHIGAWATTs is so much energy that even the planet's atmo can't hold it. I'm already worried about being to old to enjoy the hybrid model. If I have to wait till the nuc version comes out mine will need a compartment for the wheel chair. lol TOSS

No big deal my friend, I have your solution already. See when the Nuke version of the V3 comes out, all you will have to do is get up to 88 MPH, zip forward in time to when we have a cure for old age (or to when they can keep your head alive in a mason jar) and then come back and enjoy your new ride forever. See I got all the angles covered.

[willk]

Derwin, are there any new pieces of information you are allowed to divulge to us? Or some pictures like the ones of the prototype (a picture is worth a thousand words)

[Derwin]

Derwin, are there any new pieces of information you are allowed to divulge to us? Or some pictures like the ones of the prototype (a picture is worth a thousand words)

Sorry. No. But the moment there is other information (whether it be photos, videos, or anything else), the members of this club will be the first to see it.

For those that don't like to "check in" to the club constantly see if any updated information has been posted, you can now simply "follow" us on Twitter by going to:

www.Twitter.com/FlyTheRoadClub

Anytime there is an update here at the club, it will go directly to the Twitter account, and anybody registered with us at Twitter will be immediately notified. I think this makes it a whole lot easier for people to keep up with any new events without having to search the forums constantly.

I hope this is helpful to you and others.

Derwin

[bmwgc1946]

Check out their new web site http://www.flytheroad.com/ not sure if any new info but definitely graphically an improvement.

[bmwgc1946]

Hey the Carver crew is not listed on the Team. Derwin does that mean anything?

[Derwin]

Hey the Carver crew is not listed on the Team. Derwin does that mean anything?

Well, whether they are being publicly listed on their website or not, members of the Carver team are indeed helping with this project according to Howard.

The new Persu website is up, and it's a slight improvement from what they've had for the past few years. But I have to admit that I thought it would be much, much better. I'm a bit disappointed, honestly.

[Firedawg]

What about this idea for the T/C Lux model.... The iPad, iPhones and Android devices all have apps that do various things. What if there was a way to basically have your speedometer and instrument panel be just an LED screen that you could then use the display "App" that you like best. It could be a lot like the App Store or Market store is and would allow you to customize the display that you like the best.

If you think about it, this could revolutionize car interiors. Make a standard screen for all of your model of cars or what not and then let the user choose his or her display that they want. I think that the Audi R8 has a pretty sweet digital display, but I am talking about stepping past all of that and going in to the future now.

Be the innovator not only on the outside but also on the inside.

I know that we will not get this on the V3 but maybe for future Persu products? What do you all think?

[TOSS]

Firedawg that is an awsome idea! Can that tech be weather/vibrasion proofed? Could it be removable like modern sterio faces? With emitters in the dash you could have a hud projected onto the windshield. VERY COOL IDEA. TOSS

[Ronzo]

They actually built a dash like that a year or so ago on American Choppers for one of their choppers. I think there is an article on the site here somewhere on it. It was the Intel Chopper and they used a Black Diamond Advanced Technology computerized Digital Dash... The Dash board could also be removed and used a mobile computer.

[FracturedKoi]

I'm not exactly sure if anyone has touched on this or not, but while driving home from work today in my average run of the mill Honda, which I just had serviced, I thought...where in the world am I going to take my Persu to get it serviced? Are there any plans on popping up dealerships or licensed service techs? Just a thought o.o. (forgive me if this isn't the place for it!)

[Derwin]

I'm not exactly sure if anyone has touched on this or not, but while driving home from work today in my average run of the mill Honda, which I just had serviced, I thought...where in the world am I going to take my Persu to get it serviced? Are there any plans on popping up dealerships or licensed service techs? Just a thought o.o. (forgive me if this isn't the place for it!)

Actually, that was brought up a couple years ago in the forum, and as I recall I thought it was said that they would have a dealer network that would take care of maintenance, etc., kind of like what Tucker did for his vehicle back 70 or so years ago. To the best of my knowledge, they would simply sign up EXISTING dealers.

If anybody else can remember where we talked about it, or what exactly was said, please post it.

Thanks.

[Firedawg]

Well if you think about it, the only thing that would really have to be worked on by someone that has special training is the Tilt assembly. Since the V3 is starting with an ICE that means that any motorcycle repair shop could fix anything that goes wrong in the engine bay. The only really new component is the Tilt. I imagine that Persu will not be opening new dealerships all over. They will likely do what Saturn and Scion did and be an add-on to a larger dealership. As a matter of fact I don't think that PV will be a solo company after a year or so of them releasing the V3. When the V3 comes out and it becomes the most popular car in America, as it is destined to be, a much larger company will buy them up and add them in to the line up.

I would love to see Jeep and Persu on the same lot. I would have no reason to go to any other dealer ever again. :)

[Derwin]

They will likely do what Saturn and Scion did and be an add-on to a larger dealership.

Exactly. There are already dealer networks set up all over America that can sell and service the Persu V3, so there's no reason to re-invent the wheel on this!


I would love to see Jeep and Persu on the same lot. I would have no reason to go to any other dealer ever again. :)

You and I have a lot in common! I actually purchased the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited (4 Door Version) when it first came out.

[FXB]

After the disappointment in 2010 with the announcement that Persu was finished, to now visit the forum and find it is all go again is very exciting news to say the least.
I feel so positive about the rebirth of this project I have pre-registered on the Persu web site.
Although I would have liked a Hybrid or full Electric version...I am more than happy with a high specification ICE version to start with.

With reference to a previous post:

Point #3, Fitting an internal panoramic style strip mirror would allow views backwards through the side windows covering additional blind spots. It also allows you to keep a visual check on the passenger to check that they are still the right way up after the last switchback you went through. Also good external dual vision mirrors which are internally adjustable would be best.

Point #4, High visibility instrumentation, must be viewable by drivers of any hight without visual interference from the steering wheel. I think a built in SAT/NAV would only work if the display was high up to the wind screen level. I would be happy to have a space available on the wind screen to fix a removable SAT/NAV unit.

Point #5, I would prefer an automatic transmission with the option to switch to manual. I have found changing gears is a definite distraction from excitement when switching from one side to the other with only one hand on the wheel changing gear. Steering wheel paddle shifters would be better than stick change if in manual mode.

Point #6, Must have good sound and heat insulation to better enjoy the journey. A lot of noise and heat will radiate from the engine through the rear bulkhead to the passenger seat back and into the cabin. Should have an easily adjustable Heater/AirCon. The air conditioning is a must, as it will not take long when the sun shines for it to feel like an oven...the Carver does not have AirCon.

Point #8, I expect the wind shield to be as high as the Carver's. This is because when tilted, you are looking through the upper part of the screen in the direction you are travelling. Because of this the upper section needs to have a tint added, with the addition of a scroll style sun visor to be able to pull half the way down.

Point #10 I agree with this so make it a quality build...
The inside of the cabin should have high quality materials as currently used in the auto industry, not the cheaper brittle plastics.

Additional points.
1. Why is there not a rear wing on the Persu model...it so adds to the image of fly the road.

2. The Rear passenger seat should be height adjustable. This will then allow passengers of all heights to adjust the seat for the best forward view over the drivers shoulders.

3. For recreational use there should be a luggage space that will accommodate an overnight or weekend bag for two. This could be internally or on a luggage mounting plate externally. It will allow the fly the road experience to to be extended to two or three days travel.

[Jonesy Wales]

What about this idea for the T/C Lux model.... The iPad, iPhones and Android devices all have apps that do various things. What if there was a way to basically have your speedometer and instrument panel be just an LED screen that you could then use the display "App" that you like best. It could be a lot like the App Store or Market store is and would allow you to customize the display that you like the best.

If you think about it, this could revolutionize car interiors. Make a standard screen for all of your model of cars or what not and then let the user choose his or her display that they want. I think that the Audi R8 has a pretty sweet digital display, but I am talking about stepping past all of that and going in to the future now.

Be the innovator not only on the outside but also on the inside.

I know that we will not get this on the V3 but maybe for future Persu products? What do you all think?


Something like this?........

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QlSyVEXfqcA&feature=related

[Ronzo]

I finally found this again... the digital dash/ computer for the OCC Intel Bike - totally hardened!

Or http://www.ropermobile.com/intel_chopper/index.php
close up demo
http://www.ropermobile.com/intel_chopper/interface-demo.php

[Firedawg]

well that is the basic concept but not what I mean. I would like to see an LED screen that replaces all of the instrument panel. All of the instruments are digitally done in a graphic GUI that you can customize and choose your "skin" like you can an app on the iPad. You would get all of the same features of a normal instrument panel except that all of it is done up the way that you feel comfortable with because you got to make it the way you wanted it. Touch face is not necessarily needed but down the way it would be a cool touch.

My idea for this off the top of my head would be that you would go on to a website and choose your skin from a selection of pre-made skins to start off. After you are comfortable with the skins and how they work you can design your own. Certain things are required by law I am sure like speedometer, gas and temp. Those items will be in there automatically but you could configure what they would look like.

Lets say you like the old school speedometer dial with the red needle, white back ground and solid black numbers. You could choose that for your display. Lets go further and say that you want it to be a bit retro and have the 55 MPH in bold like older cars used to do back in the day. You could edit the speedometer and customize it to your liking. But lets say that you want to be all about a digital display. You want your MPH to show up like K.I.T.T's did on Knight Rider. Well with this type of thing, you have that option. Shoot lets say you wanted it to display in a whole new way, like counting up in Klingon numbers. If you are so inclined to display your full fledged nerdiness, then design it and display it with pride.

What I can compare it to is like if you play certain video games and you don't like the default UI of the game. Many games have add-ons that install over the top of the default UI cleaning things up or changing them to display completely differently. You can do the same kind of thing with iGoogle. It is basically a graphical overlay that you like better than the stock. A digital LED display would allow you to do that.

I would have no idea on how the tech would work but I could definitely supply the ideas to anyone that wants to market this.....hint, hint, nudge, nudge Howard ;)

[bmwgc1946]

I know we are all having fun dreaming and I don't want to rain on the parade. Personally I want the cost in the initial V3 to be affordable. Some low tech options are fine. But the more untested computer technology the higher the cost and when it breaks down that hurts the wallet. I would settle for proven gauges that I can replace without a computer degree. I guess my age is showing. I just want to get out there ASAP and as reasonable $$$$ as possible .

[Firedawg]

No this would be for the T/C model. It is the top of the line model and SHOULD be special. That is the point. For $5000+ more it had better be much nicer.

[Firedawg]

Ok here it is, this is basically what I am talking about. An in-dash display that is fully digital. Of course it is in a Corvette.


http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2011/02/corvette-dashboard/

[RawNRG]

I'd like to see a H.U.D. with speed, tac, and tilt. This would totally add to the "fly the road" experience, and shouldn't be overly difficult or expensive. As an added benifit it will enhance safety as you don't need to look down as much. They currently have an aftermarket HUD that does not cost too much, but is unlikely to work in the V3 due to the angle of the windshield. I do feel this should be optional though as it will likely add a few hundred dollars to the cost.

Raw