Car Chat

In this episode of the Car Chat podcast, host Sam Moores welcomes Viktor Engler, the founder and CEO of Engler Automotive. Viktor discusses his journey from a childhood in Slovakia, where his passion for cars was ignited by a book about Ferruccio Lamborghini, to becoming the creator of the unique “Superquad” vehicles. These vehicles, which defy traditional automotive categories, combine elements of both cars and motorbikes, featuring an Audi R8 engine and custom-built components. Viktor shares stories of overcoming financial challenges, securing investor support, and the engineering feats required to bring his vision to life. He also talks about the introduction of the new V12 superquad, a limited-edition vehicle boasting 1200 horsepower, 1200 kilograms of weight, and 1200 newton meters of torque, priced at 1.2 million euros. This episode provides a deep dive into the world of innovative vehicle design and the persistence required to bring such groundbreaking concepts to market.https://www.super-quad.com/Enjoy,SamShow Notes:00:00 Introduction to Engler Automotive and Superquads02:05 Childhood Dream and Inspiration09:43 Finding Investors and Making Sales14:27 Challenges with Audi and Obtaining Permission19:19 Innovative Features: Motorbike Controls and Custom Steering System25:23 Development and Unique Aspects of Superquads29:42 Reactions and Experiences on the Road35:28 Driving Experience and Getting Used to Superquads38:18 Throttle Choice and Safety Measures42:30 The Importance of Steering Wheel Controls and Physical Buttons49:06 The Desire for More Powerful Engines, Particularly V12s52:55 The Development of A V12 Engine and Unique Gearbox01:06:24 The Most Undervalued and Interesting Cars in the Market

In this episode of the Car Chat Podcast, Nikita Bridan, co-founder of Oil Stain Lab, joins us to share his fascinating journey from a career in car design to launching his own automotive design consultancy. Nikita dives into the inspiration behind their standout project, the "Half 11," detailing the unique challenges they encountered during its creation. He explores their design philosophy, which centers around minimalism, problem-solving, and cleverly integrating function into the aesthetics.We also discuss the decision to use an LS engine in the Half 11, addressing the challenges and controversies it sparked. Nikita sheds light on the design and development process of their latest project, the HF 11, and shares his experience at Goodwood, where the Half 11 was showcased. He reflects on how the car was received at the event and talks about the importance of branding and positioning in the automotive world. Finally, we touch on iconic cars like the Lamborghini Countach and Mazda 787B, and their lasting impact on the industry.https://hf-11.com/Show Notes:00:00 Starting a Design Consultancy and Building the half 1119:44 Challenging Porsche Purists with the half 1125:18 The Design Approach of Oilstain Lab: Minimalism and Problem-Solving33:23 Creating a Fake History and Pushing Boundaries38:05 Cutting a 911 in Half: The Journey of Building the half 1146:36 Collaborating with Experts: The Role of Engineering in the Design Process47:42 The Controversial Decision to Use an LS Engine48:38 The Development of the HF 1149:34 The Most Undervalued Car at the Moment52:25 The Most Interesting New Car01:31:25 Sam's Dream Five-Car Garage

I join James (MrJWW) in his new Koenigsegg London dealership for a catchup on all of the crazy projects now underway with DRVN group. In pt1. we discuss Koenisegg and particularly the crazy one off Jesko engined, CC850 gearboxed Agera that James recently drove. We then move onto Boreham Motorworks and the licensed Ford products that will be coming along with Pt.2 where we will have the Evolito (355 Restomod) story including the genesis of that project and where it has got to now.https://koenigsegglondon.com/https://borehammotorworks.com/Enjoy,Sam

Colin Hoad of CAT Driver Training joins me again (first episode here) to discuss everything you need to know before starting racing.Check out the book here: https://amzn.eu/d/eaZDb5d - all profits go to the charity Mission Motorsport (https://www.missionmotorsport.org/)Enjoy,SamShow Notes:00:00:00 - Intro + Renting a Car for a Test Day00:00:25 - Welcome and Introduction00:01:05 - Colin’s Background00:03:12 - Writing "How to Start Racing Now"00:08:05 - Insights on Racing Preparation00:09:20 - Determining Driver Skills for Racing00:11:45 - Advanced Driving Techniques00:14:02 - Psychological Challenges in Racing00:19:37 - Choosing the Right Car and Series00:25:02 - Understanding Racing Costs00:31:01 - Real-life Cost Examples00:38:21 - Importance of Fitness and Preparation00:45:12 - Continuous Learning and Improvement00:52:33 - Customer Experiences and Feedback01:01:45 - Final Thoughts on Racing Careers

In this episode Sam Moores sits down with Chris Shelley - Founder of Dymag as we know it today. Dymag has a long history of producing carbon and carbon hybrid wheels for racing. The majority on 2 wheels but a lot on 4 developing them for everything from Formula 1 to the Dakar Rally. Dymag has produced some of the lightest wheels you can get hold of today, working with companies such as BAC for the Mono, Guntherwerks and many more. https://dymag.com/Enjoy, Show Notes:00:00:00 - Meet Chris Shelley and Dymag00:02:48 - How Chris started and saved Dymag in 199300:06:44 - Facing challenges and moving the industry forward00:09:17 - Creating carbon composite wheels and fighting regulations00:12:14 - Important deals and famous interactions00:15:41 - New designs in wheels and the move to hybrid models00:20:00 - Chris's work before Dymag00:23:08 - Chris's return to Dymag and new leadership goals00:26:03 - What’s next in wheel technology and making00:29:12 - How special models change the car industry00:32:09 - Clearing up myths about carbon wheels00:35:11 - Plans for selling to more cars and luxury vehicles00:38:21 - Exciting new projects and partnerships in wheels00:40:45 - How lighter wheels help with performance and control00:43:17 - Chris’s thoughts on where car technology is heading01:09:19 - Five QuestionsJoin us for this exciting chat about past achievements, present innovations, and the future of car technology. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes from "Car Chat"!

In this segment of "Car Chat" Episode 202, Sam Hancock describes racing in the historic Spa Six Hour Classic. Amidst the pouring rain and darkness, Sam navigates a packed grid in a GT40, showcasing the high stakes and skill required in historic racing. He stresses the paramount importance of preserving these classic cars, balancing the urge to compete with the necessity to protect. Tune in for the full episode for a catchup with Sam and what he's been up to over the last few years. Full Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sam-hancock-professional-racing-driver-dealer-in-exceptional/id1432553826?i=1000653200323https://www.samhancock.com/https://www.instagram.com/hancock_sam/

Sam Hancock joins me this week to discuss what he's been up to in the last few years. Sam has always been connecting car purchases but he's now got a base with cars in stock and things are going extremely well. We chat about historic racing, what it's like driving as a new parent and how Sam's mindset has shifted on GT3 racing and electronic aids. Enjoy, Sam https://www.samhancock.com/https://www.instagram.com/hancock_sam/Show Notes:00:00:00 - IntroductionOverview of Sam Hancock’s career and transition to historic racing.00:02:15 - Beginnings in RacingSam discusses his early racing ambitions and the move from karting to endurance racing.00:05:48 - The Shift to Historic RacingHow and why Sam transitioned to focusing on historic racing as his career in modern racing vehicles wound down.00:10:31 - The Appeal of Historic CarsThe personal significance and joy of racing historic cars for Sam, highlighting particular vehicles.00:15:14 - Career Highlights and Memorable RacesReflections on standout moments from racing at Le Mans and other historic events.00:20:00 - The Business of Historic Car BrokerageInsights into Sam's venture into the brokerage of historic race cars during the COVID-19 pandemic.00:25:26 - The Future of Racing and Car CollectingSam’s thoughts on the trends in car collecting and the future of the racing industry.00:30:04 - Changes in GT RacingDiscussion on the evolution of GT racing and how it impacts both new and historic racing series.00:35:16 - Importance of Car LiveryThe significance of memorable liveries in car value and recognition.00:40:53 - Transitioning to Historic Racing SeriesPotential developments in historic racing series that could include modern GT3 cars.00:45:21 - The Driving Experience in Modern Race CarsSam describes his recent experiences testing a Lamborghini Huracan Super Trofeo and his newfound appreciation for modern race car technologies.00:50:06 - The Accessibility and Appeal of GT3 RacingExploring why GT3 racing remains a popular and accessible option for enthusiasts and amateur racers.00:55:21 - Comparing Historic and Modern RacingA comparison of the thrills and challenges of driving historic versus modern race cars on today’s tracks.01:00:00 - Closing ThoughtsFinal reflections and advice for those interested in either entering the racing world or collecting race cars.

Daniel Van Doveren is the founder of Vigilante 4x4, a Jeep Restomod Company based in the USA. Here is an excerpt from our longer podcast which you can find on your podcasts platform (apple, spotify etc.)Audio Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/daniel-van-doveren-vigilante-4x4-restomodding-iconic/id1432553826?i=1000652490521https://www.vigilante4x4.com/ Enjoy, Sam

In this episode of Car Chat, join host Sam Moores as he delves into the fascinating world of classic Jeep restorations and restomods with Daniel Van Doveren. With Dutch and Swedish roots, Daniel shares his journey from tech entrepreneur to founder of Jeep Heritage and Vigilante 4x4, renowned for transforming vintage Jeeps into modern masterpieces.This conversation takes us from Daniel's early adventures in tech to his passion-driven pivot towards automotive restoration. Discover how road trips across the US in cheap, often quirky Jeeps sparked the inception of Jeep Heritage. Daniel discusses the meticulous process of revamping these iconic vehicles, emphasising the blend of traditional charm and cutting-edge technology that sets his work apart.From scanning original Jeep models in 3D to integrating modern drivetrains and luxurious finishes, Daniel's approach to restoration marries nostalgia with innovation. This episode not only explores the technical aspects of restoration but also dives into the business side, discussing how maintaining a small-scale operation allows for creativity and personal touch in every project.Whether you're a car enthusiast or just curious about the transformation of classic cars into bespoke creations, this episode offers a deep dive into the art and science of automotive restoration.You can explore more about Daniel's work with Jeep Heritage and Vigilante through the following links:Jeep Heritage: https://www.jeepheritage.com/Vigilante: https://www.vigilante4x4.com/For enthusiasts looking to dive deeper into the world of restomod Jeeps, Daniel's companies offer a unique insight into the meticulous care and innovative engineering that go into each vehicle.Show Notes:00:00 - Introduction and Background01:36 - Starting Jeep Heritage and Vigilante02:18 - Moving to the US and Starting Jeep Heritage08:06 - Memorable Road Trips23:17 - Choosing the Level of Restoration27:35 - Design and Engineering Process27:59 - Scanning Parts and 3D Printing30:29 - Fine-tuning the Vehicle and Improvements30:59 - The History of the Grand Wagoneer32:25 - Developing Vigilante and Upgrades41:36 - Specs and Pricing42:59 - Popular Specs and Engine Choices43:52 - Understanding Customer Needs45:09 - Engine Options and Performance45:52 - Increasing Female Audience47:51 - Suspension and Airbags49:00 - Building a Limited Number of Cars55:33 - Demand for Restomods in Europe56:01 - Regulations and Building for Europe59:15 - Maintaining Quality and Personalization1:00:19 - Limitations of Restomodding1:00:50 - The Role of OEMs in Testing1:00:55 - Challenges in Achieving Perfection1:01:12 - Advice for Individuals Considering a Mod Project1:01:59 - Safety Considerations in Restomodding1:02:32 - The Importance of Safety in Restorations1:03:39 - Five Questions