Hi All
Thanks for the comments, as I said really only some sketches and ideas on a note pad, from my enquires it seems 10" wheels would be sensible for ride, and clearly good brakes, which I hope would be achieved by twin disc's up front (and possibly one behind dependant on engine/power train used) and light weight construction. Just to share the design thoughts I have on the pad:
1) Monoque chassis/body shell constructed by stitch-ply composite techniques (this would simplify construction and reduce the amount of sub-frame fabrication)
2) Off the self front suspension, possibly Rascal van, or maybe Triumph Herald double wishbone
3) Modern power train, approx 10-15 BHP, belt drive to provide maxium engine efficency
4) Exhaust gas heat exchanger to provide cabin heat and demist facility
5) Crumple zones in front and sides of body shell formed by foam blocks bonded to ply shell profile and skinned with GRP.
6) Body design similar to American Vortex, UK Nova kit cars, using many flat surfaces to aid construction (not bad for aerodyamics either!)
7) Sliding canopy design to gain access to cockpit (brought up with Gliders, light aircraft, and they seems to work well, but with seat protection, or step in areas)
Electric reversing motor driving directly on rear wheel, as per caravan manouvering systems.
9) Capable of staying up with rural commuting traffic 45-50 MPH.
10) Low profile (whilst staying withing Lighting and Construction & Use regulations for low drag and cross wind capability.
This may go nowhere, but the professionally available Micro cars do not offer the fuel economy I am looking for, for example the Axiam seems to only provide 48mph (based on independant reports), and the Smart car can do this in style (so can the Ka, or even Nissan Micra) at far less cost. Would like to see 100 MPG if possible.
Regards
Cessna