xO Sports Cars

[Karlo]

www.xosportscars.com

[acrtl1000s]

That is a nice looking ride. I am interested in buying an exocar within the next year, and that car looks amazing.

[txjeepn]

The price is definitely there. I know shipping would probably be a deal breaker. But they also list all the individual prices of all the components. It also lists a rolling chassis starting at R40,000 ($4,923.44) or a complete build starting at R129,000 ($15,859.51).

[acrtl1000s]

Yeah. I checked the rand to usd conv. I just think it looks sweet. Ill probably go with slr or something with a windshield option as you know texas air sucks. Thanks for the pricing though shipping would kill.

[cordycord]

Ocean shipment is the least expensive method of transportation available. You might be looking at $600 or less, depending on whether you picked it up at the nearest port or had it delivered.

[acrtl1000s]

That's tempting but if its delivered turn-key does it still count as a kit-car for legal purposes? And I didn't see a windshield option.

[cordycord]

Turn-key is not home-built, but would probably still be classified the same. As for windshields, you'll find that issue with lots of these cars.

[Gakes]

Hi guys and gals
I am glad that you guys have interest in the xO cars. I have been developing them for a while now. A new refined version of the xO500 has been designed and is being built now. These will have a more rigid chassis and even better suspension setups. The first few xO500 v2's will be available in a couple of weeks.

The preferred drivetrains are VW/AUDI as they use common parts and VW parts are quite affordable. Other drivetrains can also be accomodated i.e. most FWD systems and now a new bike-powered (BUSA) version has been developed for CORDYCORD. I will be posting some videos of the xO500 up on YOUTUBE soon to show the performance! So keep checking in for updates.

[golftdibrad]

that looks hot! Still uses cortina uprights though?

[Gakes]

Thanks for the compliment, it took lots of sketches and modelling to get it right:P

They do come with Cortina fronts and Sierra rears.

[cordycord]

I'll be starting a thread soon right here to show the build of the xO400. Until then, I can tell you that Gakes worked with me to install a Hayabusa motor in his frame design. The unique part of the design is that we use a standard Sierra IRS differential and drivetrain--the 'Busa motor is mounted longitudinally. No exotic Quaife differential or chain setup will be used--just a simple, proven design.:thumb2:

[cheapracer]

Fred Flintstone reverse?

[cordycord]

You know, I've got lots of pictures and wanted to release them slowly. Not like a "tease" mind you, but so that everyone would understand the design progression. You're just jumping to mid-point!

Included isn't a real picture of the "reverse" (which I have), but a picture showing the theory behind it.

The problem--friggin' expensive and easily breakable chain drives, made even more expensive if you include the reverse function. The solution--use a Sierra standard 7" differential to make things cheap, easy, but strong, and add a gear-driven starter motor as an electric reverse.

The Hayabusa motor's output shaft is pointing at the back of the car. We'll install a nice big cush drive, a gear, and a retracting starter motor for those times when we can't plan for a forward getaway.

Much more to come---stay tuned.

[golftdibrad]

Sweet!

[cheapracer]

The total sum weight of a bike engine with a Sierra diff, IRS suspension with electric reverse setup would be interesting to compare with the weight of a simple tranverse setup with struts that is your other option.

What about the much lighter Nissan R160 diff and IRS suspension used in an earlier Subaru 4WD? Wouldn't that be more available in the States also?

[cordycord]

The total sum weight of a bike engine with a Sierra diff, IRS suspension with electric reverse setup would be interesting to compare with the weight of a simple tranverse setup with struts that is your other option.

What about the much lighter Nissan R160 diff and IRS suspension used in an earlier Subaru 4WD? Wouldn't that be more available in the States also?

Many bike-engined Lotus 7's essentially have this setup, sans driveshaft.
The Subie would definitely be a candidate--I'd only be concerned with it once the hp goes up.

Like the Sonic, I'll start with a baseline. As the car is developed, I could add limited slip, or a different diff altogether. One step at a time.

[cordycord]

Gakes built an xO400 for me--a Hayabusa-powered car with a Sierra IRS. "400" refers to the estimated weight when complete -- 400kg. Here are some of the build pictures.

I asked for a lot of pictures, and Gakes complied. I asked LOTS of questions too, including following up the type of steel and measurement methods--the steel is structural tubing (Gakes even gave the supplier name and contact), and confirmed that all tubing and measurements are double-checked with by laser (within millimeters) for accuracy.

[cheapracer]

Yeah Gakes is a cool Guy, poke him in the ribs and he wears it like a Champ takes it all in and develops from it!

:thumb2:

[Karlo]

It is amazing what a little planning can get you.

[cordycord]

These will help fill out the xO400 picture. I had originally told Gakes that I'd make my own bodywork--but include the original stuff so I can model off it. However, his design is simple and gets the job done while still have a bit of style. It will be tough to decide whether to keep it or change it...

You'll see the suspension in the last picture. The rear upright is fabricated by Gakes, based on the "Haynes" style upright. The fronts are Cortina style. Both should be up to the job. Also nice--the suspension rotates on heim (rose) joints.

[cordycord]

This shows a bit more the differential and electric reverse setup. Note the cush drive, used to help protect the transmission from driveline lash.

[cordycord]

Boy, I can't wait to see this stuff in person! Gakes had the a-arms chrome plated, as I'm considering powder coating the frame silver. The uprights are tried and true Cortina Mark IV / V, while the rear upright is a Haynes-style custom upright. We had considered using pushrods and bell cranks, but decided to keep it simple.

[golftdibrad]

looks hot!

[Nigel]

Thanks Nigel, I appreciate the sentiment. My impression towards those who posted in the thread are based on the thread only. Maybe I should have said "misinterpretation" instead of "piling-on", "school girl" and "know-it-alls". Wow, I was on a roll...:D

If you get a chance to check out the new suspension pieces on Gakes website--I'd like your input. Hopefully some of those school girls will chime in too. :)

Hi Cord as requested here's my response, thought I'd post it on this thread as its probably a more appropriate place for it. :)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hi Cord,

Have now had, all be it brief, a chance to look over both the pictures and listings that you have supplied as well as a look over Mr Gakes‘s website for additional info.

Before I give my opinion on his design, I would first like to make it clear to both yourself and to all concerned who may read this post that I have, the up most respect for anyone who takes on the challenge of designing and building any form of automotive product.

While it may look easy to the untrained eye there are many things that one must consider during the design and manufacturing process. Forums such as locost are full of examples of budding designer creations, resulting in the inevitable mixes of success.

However when a builder decides, like Mr Gakes has, to take that next step, to market, manufacture and sell their design, requesting the public hand over their hard earned cash, then it is my belief, that they must accept the responsibility to provide a product that is fit for purpose, be prepared to be challenged and respond constructively in order to belay any prospective customers concerns.

With the above in mind and based on your request for my input I have decided to approach the task as if I were going to spend my own money, and have summarised my review accordingly.

The Vehicle is tubular chassed exo skeleton mid engine 2 seater with exposed sides and minimalist bodywork. Accepting that styling is very much a personal issue I will refrain from passing comment. At first sight the car strikes me as being proportionally a little elongated however I felt this could be a trick of the camera.

In truth the car is another attempt at bringing the ‘Aerial Atom Style’ exo car to the masses buy producing a low cost self build kit - no bad thing in my view.

Fairly standard tubular mild steel welded construction with plenty of triangulation present. However, leaving aside the more obvious issues like lack of role bar/style hoop stays and the unnecessary wish bone joints, my eyes are drawn to things such as the narrowness of the connection where the cockpit becomes the engine bay at base level. - (Torsional rigidity testing must have shown very poor results). Looking from the front, triangulation side tubes run up at 45% to meet the top ones, there appears to be a cross member missing. - (Node points with nowhere to pass loads). Top shock plate mounts look a little flimsy. As the front appears very narrow I wonder if it will suffer from bump steer ? Now for what is probably the item of most concern. Based on the specification you supplied, that being caused by the car using Ford Cortina REVERSED Uprights with a VW Golf rack positioned behind the centre line of the forward axle. I’m not going to elaborate other than to say that I suggest that you seek advise or read up on Ackerman steering principles.

Overall, I’m just not seeing a balanced design, on the one hand taking as an example the lower rear wishbones, using the Z, less the longitudinal bracing for triangulation design, I can only assume is in an attempt to reduce weight, yet the kit is marketed and supplied with cast iron front hubs and uprights, a heavy option. Similarly I would have preferred to see the main tube dropped from 2.5mm to 2mm wall thickness, and the weight saving being traded for a little more triangulation and the introduction of the missing cross member/s, stays and an increase to the plate thickness in specific areas like the shock mounts.

As for the use of rose joints, I doubt you’ll realise any real benefit over normal poly bushes, be saddled with a harder ride in rough conditions and a more complex setup, although I accept you’ll benefit from greater flexibility in setting. I cant perceive you’ll ever race it competitively, as for one it wouldn’t meet even the basic broom stick test and with that length of wheel base I can’t imagine it being very nimble round a tight twisty track.

On a theoretical bases at least, I have a real worry that you may end up investing a lot of your time and money on something that may well go and stop, but may not handle particularly well, this combined with the fact that there is no reference either pictorially or written of any testing undertaken, and thus proving the cars theoretical design, shouts ’be cautious’ to me.

It was this key issue that in my view KB58 on the Locost thread was trying to make a few months back, and I still see no evidence of it.

“KB58 Said - Okay, you need to stop posting and start putting miles on the car, both on the street and on-track. Nothing will prove what you have better than 10,000 miles of hard driving”

My message to Mr Gakes would be if your going to sell to the public, then at least, attempt to rigorously test the design first and preferably get some recognised, acknowledged independent reviews to support your claims and conclusions before you start pushing them for sale. :(

As I said at the beginning, I will always have a degree of admiration, for those like Mr Gakes, that have a go. However not only will I not be about to spend my money on Mr Gakes design, I doubt that the design, in its current configuration, will enable you to fulfil your dream Cord, and it is my concern that this project will be fraught with disappointment for you.

On that rather depressive note, I’m going to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and hope that when finished you enjoy your Sonic7.


Nigel

[cordycord]

So you don't like anything about it? Jeez, it's as if Stuart at MEV wrote this himself. :)

[Nigel]

So you don't like anything about it? Jeez, it's as if Stuart at MEV wrote this himself. :)

I wouldn't say that I don't like anything about it, It's just that I don't think your going to be happy with what you end up with Cord.

As for what Stuart at MEV thinks why don't you ask him ?

If I were you, lived in the states and had your funds and wanted to do a self build I'd be looking at building a SuperLite SL-R.

I apologies if I've upset you and as for next time I'll just keep my views to myself. :(


Nigel

[cordycord]

No worries, Nigel. Most of your points can be easily explained, but it seems somewhat silly of me to argue the benefits of the xO until it's actually in my possession. Maybe after I'm done gift shopping today I'll respond to a couple of the larger points.

Believe me, the xO will be placed right next to the Sonic when it arrives, and there the comparisons will begin. :)

Merry Christmas!

Cord

[Nigel]

Believe me, the xO will be placed right next to the Sonic when it arrives, and there the comparisons will begin. :)

Cord

If I'd known that it was your intention, to do so some silly kind of comparison, for quite what reason I'm still not sure, I really wouldn't have bother to respond to your request to me, for my comment.

There's me thinking you were like me, someone who just enjoy building a car for there own personal pleasure and enjoyment.

I hope you find what your looking for.


Nigel

[cordycord]

If I'd known that it was your intention, to do so some silly kind of comparison, for quite what reason I'm still not sure, I really wouldn't have bother to respond to your request to me, for my comment.

There's me thinking you were like me, someone who just enjoy building a car for there own personal pleasure and enjoyment.

I hope you find what your looking for.


Nigel

You're not wrong, Nigel. I do it for fun. The Sonic has become less so, but I digress. Somehow I think that if you had these two cars in your garage, you'd do a little comparison yourself.

[cordycord]

Hi Nigel,

I've got time now to respond to your posts. I frankly thought you'd like the xO suspension, because the design is so ubiquitous. I've included a page from one of my favorite books; How to Build Motorcycle-engined Racing Cars, by Tony Pashley. Page 51 shows many rear suspensions, and most use the "Z" style a-arms. It's essentially an A-arm with an additional tube to adjust caster.

Rear Haynes upright--used successfully by many cars. Like the a-arms, a light, proven design. That's something I like in a new chassis designer--one less thing to worry about.

Cortina front uprights--for OE, exceptionally light and a proven design. Should I want to go lighter, I'll just order up the Rally Design type on the Sonic.

Heim joints--personal preference, I guess. Ariel Atom, Palatov, SL-R and many others use them. The units I'm using are exactly the same as those used by the Superformance Cobras.

Tube chassis--I won't go into details, but the narrow rear and front are on purpose. You'll see similar on Cloudy's R4 design--a very nice car. As for the "rollbar", it can be called so about as much as the Sonic, Cobra's paper clips or most of the Locost 7's. Let's just call them all "style hoops". It seems that most are leaving the level of safety to the end user. I do like how the side tubes are taller, thicker and larger diameter than the Sonic.

Which comes to the reason for purchasing the car. This will be a great "grocery-getter", and a fun car to run along Pacific Coast Highway on the weekends. It will definitely bend some cones, like the Sonic, but I'll never race it. If that were my intent, I'd buy a race car.

Honestly Nigel, I thought you'd see that Gakes breaks no new ground with the suspension. For me, that's a good thing. Should it work in a sub-900lb car? You bet. Plus, I fully expect a better weight bias than the Sonic, Atom, or SL-R, simply because of the weight of the motor.

Hopefully I won't be proving you right during this build, Nigel. :)

[Nigel]

I don’t know why I bothered, and I really don’t know why I’m bothering now either, first you start off by giving me references to your favourite books on:-

“How to build motorcycle-engined race cars” then you go on to state that you wish it to be a “fun car to run along the Pacific Coast Highway on weekends ………. but I’ll never race it. If that were my intent, I’d buy a race car.”

Talk about a conflict of statements, jeez make you mind up, One of the key issues I have with Gakes’s design is BALANCE. Design shouldn’t be just an exorcise in looking around for what’s best, and been done before, and throwing it all together.

As far as the narrow rear, please don’t use Cloudy’s R4 design as a comparison, where as I’ve had words with James before on other issues, this car bares no comparison with his.

On Roll bars/Style hoops, why you keep needing to draw direct comparisons with the Sonic 7 I just don’t know ? other than it just happens to be my car of choice at the moment, its certainly not the only car I’ve ever built, and will hopefully not be the last.

I really do hope you do prove me wrong on all the concerns that I’ve highlighted especially on the cars handling attributes, as it won’t really be much of an exo car if it doesn’t handle very well now will it ?

Do you actually have any independent drivers reports ?


nigel

[golftdibrad]

The tadeoff with wide vs narrow rears and fronts and the high torsional rigidity they bring is with the suspension, longer links provide better camber control.

[cordycord]

Not ready to turn this thread into the one at Locost, Nigel. A book is a book, a car is a car. 'Nuff said.

[cheapracer]

Meh I'll keep it simple, a triangle is the strongest structure now look at the A arms and decide for yourselves.

Looks are subjective things and the xO's looks has come a long way IMO, I do like the side rear scoops too.

[Nigel]

Nice to see some other people voicing some opinion's, Brad, Cheapracer and No I really don’t wish to turn this thread into a car bashing exercise Cord, I can appreciate that Mr Gakes has probably spent a lot of time and effort on this, as you yourself probably have too.

Most of the issues are minor and can be addressed relatively simply. However I note you have not expressed a view on my concerns about wheelbase length and Cortina upright reversal and their resultant affect on the cars handling abilities.

I strongly urge you to get this issue, above all else, understood and resolved before you go any further. Please :thumb2:

On the other hand if you wish me not to express my concerns in a constructive manor, regardless of their severity and potential consequences to you as a fellow builder, then I'm quite happy to wash my hands of the whole thing.


Nigel

[cordycord]

Nigel,

The concerns that you noted were not addressed in order to keep this thread from becoming a "tit for tat" thread. I'll send you a personal email with an explanation to keep it that way.

Cheap, if you truly want acceptance in the U.S. market, you should NEVER tell your customers that you used to work for the IRS (tax man) or the DMW (department of motor vehicles). :) It's the kiss of death.

Gakes had the parts chromed at my request, and had them x-rayed prior to chroming, in advance of some possible new stringent South African DMW laws.

[cheapracer]

I changed my post as you know because you were right - it did have the smell of same old same old but I still did and will mention A arms because they are such a critical thing and if someone learns something for themselves for the future then its of benefit to all of us.

Gakes has something a lot never achieve, a working, running car - almost 2 now and thats a great place to make progress/improve from :thumb2:

[dinosaurjuice]

i built a radio controlled car 4 years ago. about 1/5 scale. started off with a dream of making something like an FG marder. quickly bought a chainsaw engine and lots of other bits and knocked something together. i thought at the time becasue i was 'clever', i couldnt go wrong.

well. it was rubbish. but im just glad i made my mistakes on a £100 toy 60cm long which had little chance of killing somebody.

this is when i would usually point out a few more issues ive noticed with the gakesmobil, but im not. i really cant be bothered. i would rather buy some popcorn and let the issues reveal themselves.

sorry if ive been a little blunt,

will

[cordycord]

You are a "Little Blunt", dino. :)

Gakes has told me that his design was reviewed and approved by two separate auto engineering firms.

BTW, did I ever tell you about the model plane that I built? Yep, I'll never set foot on a commercial plane again.

[cordycord]

As a reminder--constructive input and questions are appreciated in any forum. Piling on, anecdotes about your ride-on lawnmower, and especially statements how "I know better than you" are just not needed.

Support your fellow builder, whether you'd build a similar vehicle or not, or simply don't post in that forum.

[cheapracer]

I meant to mention that Cortina uprights are available in aluminium.

http://www.rallydesign.co.uk/popup_image.php?pID=11815&osCsid=cfv60vne62r821felqj1rjgi66

Hope they weren't made in China and don't weld them and you should be ok.

[cordycord]

I meant to mention that Cortina uprights are available in aluminium.

http://www.rallydesign.co.uk/popup_image.php?pID=11815&osCsid=cfv60vne62r821felqj1rjgi66

Hope they weren't made in China and don't weld them and you should be ok.

These are the exact uprights used for the Sonic. They're nice, very lightweight units. My steering arm came with a slight defect (I fixed). I told Rally Design, simply so they'd know, and they said that they have already changed the steering arm design to a forged unit. Good. Funny thing--Rally Design will sell to you in China, but the U.S. is far too litigious so they won't sell their product directly to us. :)

I know I'm in the minority, but I don't find the OE Cortina hubs to be heavy. Or the Mustang II hubs. Or OE Miata hubs. Custom is nice, but not absolutely necessary IMO. If you're on a budget, OEM hubs could represent over $1,500 in cost savings.

[cheapracer]

I know I'm in the minority, but I don't find the OE Cortina hubs to be heavy. Or the Mustang II hubs. Or OE Miata hubs. Custom is nice, but not absolutely necessary IMO. If you're on a budget, OEM hubs could represent over $1,500 in cost savings.

100% agree - Putting aside actual gross vehicle weight, people waste far too much time on rubbish about unsprung weight and in turn waste far too much money on the subject for the overall intended usage (note those last 5 words).

Use that budgeted upright money for better tyres, you'll go much faster.

[golftdibrad]

I agree, the money is better spent on lighter wheels and tires. That is a double whammy, less rotational weight and unsprung weight.

[cordycord]

Customs decided that the container the xO was in needed extensive review. Therefore the government is now charging me $265 for the privilege of holding up my car. Hopefully later this week. Even with the extra charge, shipping from South Africa was surprisingly cheap--about $1,200, including customs, inland freight, duty, etceteras. Since I'm out of town anyway, I'm not gonig to worry about a week's delay.

[cheapracer]

Not sure where you are but in Oz they have a habit in the random container selection of cleaning everything in the container with high powered jet washer and they don't care where the water goes then they may fumigate it for bugs.

Good luck with the goods, hope its up to expectations :-)

[cordycord]

Not sure where you are but in Oz they have a habit in the random container selection of cleaning everything in the container with high powered jet washer and they don't care where the water goes then they may fumigate it for bugs.

Good luck with the goods, hope its up to expectations :-)

The car is coming into the Long Beach / LA port, which I think is the biggest in the US. I get about 3-4 shipments checked by US Customs every year--mostly the LCL (less than container load) stuff, as you've got other company's parts stuffed into the same container. They check with dogs, x-rays, etceteras. The x0, and all similar shipments aren't allowed in unless the shipper has confirmed that the frame/pallet/box has been fumigated for insects. Don't forget this little tidbit when importing!

Anyone needing help--feel free to PM me and I'll at least get you some contact names and general information.

[cheapracer]

Not only fumigated but wood has to be kiln dried too.

Years ago the company I was working with resolved it all by getting their own quarantine station license mostly requiring triple intercept sludge tanks along with the mandatory steamcleaning bay - then the containers came straight from the ship to the factory with occasional spot checks from Inspectors.

[cordycord]

The xO arrived this afternoon--barely enough time to unload it from the truck. An errant fork lift seems to have damaged a piece or two of the bodywork, but I'm just going to use it to mold from anyway.

[cheapracer]

Hope it meets your expectations.

[Karlo]

Have you told your wife Yet :bwhip:

[FIAROADSTER]

very disappointing to see compression bends in the rollbars. Hope the rest is better. We all await

[cordycord]

I finally uncrated the xO and took stock of all the parts. My first impression is that the frame is very well built, the welds are solid and the material used is beefy. For example, the suspension tabs are 4.88mm thick and the main tubing is 50mm (2") O.D. structural steel tubing. The crate definitely won the unpacking war, as I got a nail go completely through my index finger--didn't notice it went all the way until a couple hours later...

The layout, dimensions and overall scale tell me that this will be a successful build. However, I'm never completely happy (see my Sonic build :D), so I still see areas of improvement.

I've decided to put the car in a corner for now, and finish the Sonic first. I'm guessing, however, that this build will go much faster. Who the hell is crazy enough to work on TWO cars?! Karlo--when I do tell my wife about car #2, I may use the insanity defense...:)

FIA, the frame actually looks pretty good in person.

[pook]

I like it, and was going to tell you to brace the roll bar till I saw this? may not matter if its braced:( I know they won't let it on a track like that. Think it can be raised or the seat lowered? or is that guy really tall?
PooK

[cordycord]

Nope--I'm pretty sure they're short. :) Like the Sonic, this will be a cone-bender and track day car. I don't race, so I'm not going to worry about the roll bar height too much.

[pook]

Thats what I mean, I think you have to pass the "broom stick test" to even put it on a track for track days? or at least they use to use that rule. May have changed, It's been a long time ago.
PooK

[pook]

I just thought about that and I'm posib wrong otherwise how would a convertible be able to run track days?.....Nevermind"pain"
PooK

[golftdibrad]

I just thought about that and I'm posib wrong otherwise how would a convertible be able to run track days?.....Nevermind"pain"
PooK

most tracks just require a rollover protection of some sort for lapping days. Broom stick rule usually doesn't come into play until you go wheel to wheel racing.

[cheapracer]

I wonder how many have noticed that it's right hand drive ....

[cordycord]

I wonder how many have noticed that it's right hand drive ....

I requested it that way...

[cordycord]

I really didn't get much done today, except a little clean-up. The xO was put on a rotisserie more for storage than anything. We can now tilt it so it takes up less space.

These three pictures represent the nicer points of the frame.

Front--you can see how the suspension forces would follow the lattice work of the side frame.

Back--this new frame is narrow at the back, which is different than the original design.

Curve--this is one of my favorite views of an Ariel-type car. The top beam rides on a different plane than the bottom, allowing room for the front wheel while creating a nice organic shape.

[Gage]

It looks good Cordycord. =0) Thanks for sharing.

[Gakes]

The steering system is collapsible on impact as well

[cordycord]

The steering system is collapsible on impact as well


What impact?!!!! :run:

[Gakes]

I hope nobody gets to test it tho:)

[cheapracer]

If that frame collapses to that point that you need the steering column to collapse I think the impact would have already done enough damage.

Offset shaft with 2 uni joints should be sufficient, most racing classes require that too.

[Gakes]

you can never be too cautious. stay ahead of the pack, what if it does happen?I'll definitely appreciate the extra safety device

[Gakes]

Hey guys and gals. I just wanted to show the latest xO500 build. Its a track kit package. The car comes with a wider track than normal and no engine or gearbox has been fitted.All mounting points for VW/AUDI FWD systems are fitted already. Wheels are 15" light alloys with 205/45/15 tyres ; GAZ adjustable coilvers with rosejointed ends and adjustable bias brakes
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs321.snc3/28665_400164117560_647682560_4024914_3958599_n.jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs330.ash1/28665_400164122560_647682560_4024915_3863133_n.jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs330.ash1/28665_400164112560_647682560_4024913_124556_n.jpg

[B-T]

Looks good, how much does the track package car cost?
BT

[Gakes]

Thanks, it costs ZAR105 000

[Gage]

Looks good, how much does the track package car cost?
BT

Ditto.

[Karlo]

105,000.00 zar = 13,627.51 usd

[Gakes]

Anyone interested in some kits in USA? If a few of you order together then we can arrange better prices. It will make shipping costs much lower as well

[Gakes]

All xO500's come with a wide rear track now, will post some pics soon

[proggod]

Pm'd you, I am interested in more information.. :)

[Gakes]

Just mailed you, thanks

[Gakes]

Here are some of the latest pics with the wider rear track installed on the proto car

[FIAROADSTER]

how about some F&R suspension pictures? Throw in an engine picture or two.

[Gakes]

will take some pics later and post them

[kombo2011]

Wow nice car! I have an idea to buy it but how can I order it?

[Gakes]

Hi, just pm'd you. Thanks

[Gakes]

Some photos of my xO500

[Gakes]

Hi guys

Here are some updates that I've been working on for the xO500. its a gokart-like add-on to help with aero probems that all exo cars experience. A full body would probably have helped more but, I think it looks fun and makes you feel like a kid again:D

Also, we've just merged with a high tech composites company and will be producing our own supercar in the next year or two with carbon fibre chassis and bodies...exciting stuff :)

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a57/gakes/4.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a57/gakes/2.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a57/gakes/1.jpg

[sassmatt72]

I like the side pods and the nose/ tail combo, looks goos and must help with aero and wheel saftey. m

[cordycord]

Frankly I don't like 'em Gakiem. The beauty of your car is the simplicity, and the side pods just add visual weight and make it tougher to get in/out.

Here's a simple sketch that Greg Tada made over your bodywork. This is a Slam Dunk design, IMO. The cashier's check for the design goes to him. :)

[sassmatt72]

that schetch up looks so much better, wow. matt (I'm eating my hat)

[Gakes]

Thanks sassmat72, I was trying to improve airflow around the car as these exo style cars tend to cause turbulent flows between the openings.

And Cord, wow that looks great, hats off to Greg Tada! nice kit.

[petrikasm]

I like it. Funny, how the frame design is similar to mine, but great minds think alike, I guess, hehe.

Now a couple of questions: what are the body panels made of? Glass fiber or plastic? And what is the rim size on this? They look pretty big for that engine. How's the acceleration?

I'll be following this, like it so far.