Sorry for the delay, Vaskel! Had a bit of traveling to do these past few days. I went from Chicago to Atlanta for my Father's wedding - what a to-do, great fu

Sorry for the delay, Vaskel! Had a bit of traveling to do these past few days. I went from Chicago to Atlanta for my Father's wedding - what a to-do, great fun. (TMI? :) ) In our eyes 10mpg is a huge savings. Couple that with efficiency gains by utilizing lightweight materials, and boost that with a clean diesel with reduced emissions; for Local Motors, this is the way to move forward. We are not looking for a one-time solution and we will get better as time goes on. With each step, with each vehicle we can only hope to improve with each iteration. Your views are well heard, and we are aware that many share your views on the type of engine which would be easiest to use and manipulate. If we have made a mistake and the 335d is too difficult, the Rally Fighter is fit for 2 other engine opitons - among those is a plain ol' gasoline engine. Not our favorite option, but we do hear you. Laughed about the bat shit crazy ex girlfriend. Thank you for that :) Your words, "Give the people a choice" hits home. The open development process at local-motors.com is exactly that - a forum for participation and choice. While we can digest what you say in this space, the votes of our community members and dedicated participants are the votes and voices we follow. We want your voice to be heard. If you would prefer to wait for a vehicle that is more personal, one that you would use and have a personal vested interest in, I understand. I don't think the desert racing segment is your cup o' tea. But your opinion is so valuable, so consider yourself invited to take part. RE: "zero mainstream appeal", the segment is certainly limited and the choice is intentional. This is a segment in which we could build a product to have very clear improvements over anything else on the market. A segment that is already building cars, and a segment that is passionate like you wouldn't believe. We will build cars for the tarmac, for Jersey - but we will not, not, not build cars for the masses. Please everyone, and you will eventually please no one. The future of exciting products and cars is niche and supported by a hands-on experience. Again, time will tell as to whether we are "right". I hope you will stay close so we can hash out this conversation again as we grow, and as new niche local markets make their desires known. I also want to note that I think all of your notes on the US auto industry and market potential are more or less right on. There is space for not only more cars in the segments you mentioned, there is also room for more car companies. I agree with you. Trust that we have done our "homework", and our business model is viable on a local level w/ limited production for niche markets. The changes you are suggesting we make ("build for mainstream enthusiast", "target millions") would make us un-local motors - and that is not our goal. This company and community is focused on creating a unique local experience for local enthusiasts. Your suggestions & strategy may be viable, but it is not local. Thanks again! Ariel Ferreira aferreira@local-motors.com