Project Overview
The principle project objective is to create a vehicle that has a maximum speed in excess of 100mph, can achieve 100mpg+ at its cruising speed of 70mph, from an engine displacement of 100cc.
EDIT
So here is a concept sketch for the project. On the basis that a picture is worth a thousand words, it should make it easier for anyone to understand what I am aiming for.
EDIT –
Provide an Index
The thread has become so large that it takes serious commitment to read in full. So for the casual reader I have compiled an index
See some youtube video of the semi-finished vehicle.
Airfield shakedown
http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...tml#post337981
Slow speed stability tests
http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...tml#post312801
Postings about targets
Plans for gearing
http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...tml#post258994
Frontal area calcs for drag
http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...tml#post260523
Postings about build process (with images)
Carburettor mounting
http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...tml#post267792
Steering design
http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...tml#post272973
Contributions by notable experts
Craig Vetter – scepticism about C90 power
http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...tml#post261934
Kraig Schultz – helpful advice
http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...tml#post337998
Paul Blezard – opinion about goals and discussion with Cedric Lynch
http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...tml#post335913
Insightful comments by forum members (there are many and I will note and credit as many as possible in due course)
Frank Lee – opinion on aero design
http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...tml#post259197
I have done enough research to believe that these targets are possible, although they will be difficult to achieve. I will hamper myself further by choosing to run exposed wheels, which is a personal choice, as I don’t like the “dustbin” fairing style. I think it is important to ensure that the vehicle remains “cool” if it’s ever to be widely accepted.
Many years ago I was inspired by Amory Lovins’ Hypercar principle, then quickly realised that one of the biggest drawbacks would be congestion, which is already a major source of waste. Since then I have worked on “single person vehicles” as a part of the solution. I have already produced a full size prototype vehicle with single track and fully enclosed bodywork, which I will call an “internal motorcycle”. This initial vehicle is a pure “proof-of-concept” prototype and has no chance of being acceptable for road-testing on the public highway. Therefore I intend to use “Project 100” as a spin-off, which allows me to complete lots of road testing, without worry about registration and the fear of arrest, much as Craig Vetter does.
I have chosen to start with a Honda C90 “cub” as a donor vehicle, due to its high production numbers, horizontal engine design and low capacity. I will fabricate a new frame that allows recumbent seating and cover it with my prototype bodywork.
I would very much welcome all comments and opinions (positive and negative) as I document the project. This forum contains many wise voices and I am a firm believer in “the wisdom of the crowd”, and how that can provide a better outcome.