A couple of months ago, it was reported that TVR will be back from the dead soon (earlier post). Autocar has now more information indicating that TVR will be back with a new roadster. Smolenski, the current owner of TVR, plans to show a new prototype at Goodwood�s Moving Motor Show in July.
The new car will have a modified version of the traditional steel backbone chassis and all-independent suspension that were used for all previous TVR models. However, forget the old engines due to homologation and cost reasons.
�We looked at every engine available � including making our own � and decided that the Corvette was the most powerful off-the-shelf design going. Fitting it to our chassis allows us to meet all current regulations and is not too big a step.�
In the longer term, the revived TVR company plans a hybrid concept, said Smolenski. �I always wanted an automatic model,� he said, �but the chassis wouldn�t allow either a regular auto or an automated manual. The hybrid concept would allow us to kick out the conventional gearbox completely.�
The first new-generation TVRs will be convertibles, reminiscent of the Tuscan, because Smolenski believes that most customers prefer open-top cars. It is too early to forecast names or prices, he said, but a new car �shouldn�t cost any more� than the European price of an equivalent Corvette.
The new car will have a modified version of the traditional steel backbone chassis and all-independent suspension that were used for all previous TVR models. However, forget the old engines due to homologation and cost reasons.
�We looked at every engine available � including making our own � and decided that the Corvette was the most powerful off-the-shelf design going. Fitting it to our chassis allows us to meet all current regulations and is not too big a step.�
In the longer term, the revived TVR company plans a hybrid concept, said Smolenski. �I always wanted an automatic model,� he said, �but the chassis wouldn�t allow either a regular auto or an automated manual. The hybrid concept would allow us to kick out the conventional gearbox completely.�
The first new-generation TVRs will be convertibles, reminiscent of the Tuscan, because Smolenski believes that most customers prefer open-top cars. It is too early to forecast names or prices, he said, but a new car �shouldn�t cost any more� than the European price of an equivalent Corvette.
Source: Autocar
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