One face in the auto industry that is slowly gaining ground since the 1990’s is the kit cars sector. For those who are not familiar...kit cars are homemade, hand-assembled cars which are highly customized. Typically, it is built around major technical components taken from other vehicles. You get it either as unique models (Caterham CSR260 roadster), or as ways to modify the chassis and engine of a mundane car like making a VW Beetle look like a Lotus 7.







The entire process on an average takes 6 and 12 months. Many prefer kit projects-which include every step from the first bolt affixed onto the chassis to the installation of the gas cap.



David Smith and his brother Mark, of Factory Five Racing in Wareham, Mass seeing the advances in technology, growing parts availability, and renewed public interest in classic cars took the risk to start their own kit car business and have not looked back since. Now, Factory Five Racing has become the largest U.S. seller of kit cars in a quickly growing field of custom manufacturers.



However, there are many hurdles kit cars has to cross before it really penetrates the masses. Outdated registration rules or lack of vehicle class definitions makes it difficult to get titles for the car. Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) has been working with state legislatures to pass laws more favorable to kit builders. Due to its efforts, seven states in U.S have allowed kit cars to be registered under original model-year dates, and five more states would be joining soon.



Would really be great to see that this goes well, then it would be easy to get the car you have been dreaming of along with practical lessons on autos.



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