Graham Halstead and Scott-Geddes share an impressive track record and formed part of the small engineering team that worked on the McLaren F1 and Mercedes-McLaren SLR. In terms of sheer vehicle performance their vision for the Freestream T1 was an ultra-lightweight car capable of reaching 100mph in five seconds, with a top speed exceeding 200mph depending on the adjustable aerodynamic set-up, with enough downforce to corner at more than 3g - about the same as a Le Mans prototype - and the ability to stop on the proverbial sixpence.
However, in terms of addressing fundamental automotive industry issues - such as safety and CO2 emissions for example - the car will showcase the consultancy's core credentials. "Concept vehicles are ten-a-penny and this is more than a one-off prototype," says Scott-Geddes. "The only way to truly convince car makers that we have the experience and skills to design and engineer a safe, reliable, cost-efficient albeit high-performance car is to actually design and build one. We then have something to discuss."
"In addition, there is a global market for an exclusive ultra-high performance track car that can also be used on the road; so in effect we've found an exciting way of funding our demonstrator," added Halstead. "Customers for the car will either be private individuals with a passion for high performance sports cars or corporate clients requiring an affordable yet prestigious track car for the fast growing market of hospitality race experience events. Meanwhile, we look forward to working closely with automotive clients to help tackle their design engineering issues."
The Freestream T1 powertrain comprises a bespoke 2.4-litre supercharged V8 aluminium engine with a mass of approximately 85kg. Similarly, the 6-speed sequential transmission with magnesium casing is a bespoke design with a mass of approximately 30kg. The carbon/aluminium honeycomb monocoque features a separate composite crash structure at the front, while the rear sub-frame specifies aerospace grade steel. The non carbon-fibre steel suspension, for example, illustrates the company's ability to specify structural materials that can deliver the maximum performance at the lowest possible cost. Overall, the £150,000 price tag underlines the company's ability to design and build an exclusive car at a relatively low price despite its ultra high performance.
Sounds pretty legit to me...
Who ever thought a Scottish car would be great (Mclaren F1), so just because it's made in England doesn't mean much.
As far as a V8 Radical running circles around it... for 1/3 the price.
A V8 Radical (which isn't street legal) weighs in dry at 650KG and makes 360hp and the engines are only good for 30 hours between rebuilds (sign me up!). Not sure what a new one cost but a used one costs over $106,000.
The new SR9 Radical which isn't street legal either, will come a little closer in performance, weighing 750KG with 525hp. A rolling chasis with out motor costs $247,000 adding the motor adds another $57,000. So 1/3 the cost? Not quite.