Dave's SEMA surprise?

[Oppenheimer]

So what were the surprises Dave mentioned for SEMA? I saw in the pics from Dave Hodkin's a shot of a bluse slab-sided 'Roadster', was that the surprise? A new slab-sided MkIV?

[Jon A]

The slabside Dave took a picture of is the first Shelby Cobra built (CSX 2000). I took a ton of pictures of it at the NY Auto Show this year (where it made its debut 50 years ago this year). Amazing piece of automotive history.

-Jon A.

PS

I too am eagerly awaiting the "SEMA Surprise"!!

[shinn497]

At the dinner today dave mentioned there will be a FIA roadster kit. Nothing on the 818 at all.

[Silversmith]

When? WHEN? WHEN??? On the FIA?? I'm already collecting parts. I want a FFR/FIA sitting next to my ERA 427 S/C!! Ok I'll settle for the time estimate on the SEMA Surprise

[David Hodgkins]

From Dave Smith:

Guys, I had originally planned to discuss some major new initiatives at Factory Five, and I know that many of you were anxious to hear the three new items....All of that went out the window as the direct in-person response to the 818S and 818R was beyond anything I expected. I spent the week slowly realizing that the interest in the new car MUST drive (and change) my tactical plan. As it is now, I am making some major changes to my company's tactical plan, that involves shifting resources, adding crew, and soliciting even more help from our partner companies, customers and community..... ALL focused on the successful launch of the 818 model in an accelerated time frame without compromising the quality (frankly, needing to increase the launch quality) of the car and launch.

Bottom line is that while I may have, what I consider to be a great tactical plan, all of that has to take a back seat to the legitimate groundswell of passionate interest in our latest car model. I have to, in this case, listen to those who pay our rent. I'll have much more detail upon return from SEMA, and ask for your continued patience. HUGE thanks to all the FFR folks who stopped by and said hello at the show and especially a huge thanks for the very kind words on the 818. You guys have inspired the design team and FFR guys. We are very pleased with the reception of the concept and car and I promise only that we will redouble our efforts to make sure we are deserving of your support!

Dave Smith

[PhyrraM]

That's good news. What I heard...."We have a lot of work to do, and I just moved up the timetable because folks like the 818 more than expected".

Dave, we expected it. :cool:

[Jeff Kleiner]

At the dinner today dave mentioned there will be a FIA roadster kit.

He just does that to get mrmustang worked into a lather :p

Jeff

[Xusia]

Oh wow! Good news! :)

[timmy318]

Great news!!!!!

[Mechie3]

I like that news better than his Surprise (though, I still want to know what it was going to be :) )

[RM1SepEx]

Hmmm, I'm not surprised at the 818 responce...

Great to hear about the new increased focus on the 818, can't wait to build mine...

[riptide motorsport]

yup good news!

[Silversmith]

Dave I'm really glad the 818 is drawing such intrest. It was a wicked awsome concept & now to see it come to life is just the Balls!!! Heck it's got me thinking!...... mabe I should consider turning Japanese.????? Naa... not yet! I'm an American! By Gumby! & I still love American Iron the most! Don't get me wrong, I truly respect & admire what the Asians & Europeans have done in the automotive world. I really believe the world hot rodder market is getting ready to beat your Door down!! The 818 will make FFR a international automotive & financial success!! Dave! please don't forget the FIA. Just put a couple of your gearheads in a shop corner somewhere to convert the MKIV parts, body & chassis to a World Championship/FIA version; Soon!!! Mabe you will only sell 250 to 500 FIA's. Versus the 1,000+ 818's I expect you to sell in the next 2 to 5 years. But thats not chicken feed! By the way; sounds like you may need another shop just for the 818 :) Many of us here have been following FFR since the start. Man! it's fun watching the FFR concept/firm grow! Come on Dave, I know you can split into a few more pieces :) :) God Bless you & all the other gearheads at your shop & all the FFR owners & site followers.