Friday, May 19, 2023

shiftR111 2.0 Prototype Testing

We have been testing the prototype in Lee's 2011 Elise for the last couple of weeks.  He has been very happy with it so far.  The second proto has now arrived and we have a couple of changes that we need to test out to improve the kit.  This one will go in the 111RS and then we will modify the first one and install in the ArtCar2 for track testing.

The two issues that this first one had are the reverse lock out block is not thick enough and the base plate has a hole that does not line up perfectly with the floor of the car.  Both will have an effect on the feel of the kit so we want to get them right. 


One thing that is clearly better is the action of the reverse lock out collar.  Eliminating the cable deletes one adjustment that makes the install even easier.  We believe it should also make for better durability and reduce the need for any future adjustments.




Monday, May 15, 2023

111RS #3 Build: Finished?

The 111RS was mostly complete!  We got the car ready for a soft unveiling with the Avants club.  We did not get a chance to rack up enough miles to ensure she was properly vetted.  Plus the AC was not yet charged and the stereo wiring was not yet completed.  At least we got her through Smog Test and got the plates up to date. 

I had my Brand Assassins team get to work on the car and add some decals - especially the EVH homage to the roof.  

She looked great!  Initial driving impressions were also excellent so I can't wait to start racking up break-in miles...


We hung out with other enthusiasts at Auto Conduct's facility in Los Angeles


Thursday, May 11, 2023

111RS #3 Build: Finishing Details

LEDs in da HOUSEing
There are so many details that need to be taken care of on a complete build like this.  With our unveiling coming up this Saturday, we were under the gun to finish her off for the assembled guests at the Avants Club Master Class. 

Stereo install, raceVIEW mirrors, ReVerie Side Scoops & 5-element Diffuser, LED lights and custom front turn signals, V-Force harnessbar, Schroth PROFI 4pt Harness, powder coated gas cap cover, alignment, seat install, Safecraft Fire Extinguisher, LFTstrap, BBhook2, red Bollock, sillSACK, custom door panels and custom steering wheel.  

Carlos aligning her to our spec

Plus we got Brand Assassins to add some decals to the car.  One key design element looks especially cool and is a tribute to a favorite musician of ours.  Final pix coming soon...

Interior: Rubber Floor mats, Bollock, Fire extinguisher, more


Wednesday, May 3, 2023

111RS #3 Build: Clam & Seat

 The front clam is back and getting secured to the car.  The access panels and rear engine lid were also repainted.  We need to rewire the turn signals and add LED rings to the light cluster.  

Another cool development is a new supplier that we have been working with on upholstery.  We had them redo a passenger seat along with the door cards.  The seat came out of an Exige originally.  I kept the same overall design but changed the materials.  In fact, I choose Alcantara, Perforated Leather and CF-look pleather.  All of these are in black and look great together.  I'm a big believer in changing up textures but staying within the same color to add a bit of cachet.  The seat turned out subtly cool.

We also added an inflatable lumber bladder that works well.  I'm especially pleased with this.  Many of the stock seats came with this feature but have failed.  We can retrofit our kit when we reupholster a clients car.