Could We Build a Speed Racer Car?

Is a “Speed Racer” car possible with today’s technology?

Brigid O'Kane

: A car like this could exist with today’s technology, but some of the features would have to be modified to actually make them work. For example, analysis studies on the jacks could prove that extreme jumps would be difficult on the driver and tear up the road.  But other technologies, like those allowing for automobiles to convert into underwater vehicles, already exist. Packaging all these different technologies into one vehicle would be the challenge.

What would a “Speed Racer” car cost to produce?
 
Brigid O'Kane: To design, engineer, test and produce all the special features for a custom vehicle like this it would easily cost several million dollars.

What features of the car are most easily produced today and likely to be in demand in the near future?
 
Brigid O'Kane: With the right funding and the right experts committed to making it work, any of the Mach 5 features could be produced. Demand would depend on future trends. My personal favorite would be the Mach 5 as an underwater vehicle with a periscope.

What other capabilities should be designed into a super-cool car like this?
 
Brigid O'Kane: An alternative power source in the future would make the Mach 5 more environmentally friendly and possibly give it more power. Other features that should be included are autopilot, a defense system, a cloaking device and an espresso machine.
 

The car in “Speed Racer” is a full-blown character. Why do we like him/it/her? Is it a him/her or an it?

Brigid O'Kane: We like the car because of all the wonderful things it can do. It’s just dreamy that a vehicle could do all that. The number of features it has and what it can do give it a lot of personality, and we get to form a relationship with this personable car.
 
The gender of the car depends on who is driving.
 

Who would be the target market for this car?
 
Brigid O'Kane: The target marked for a car like this would be people who have lots of disposable income and love racing.

 
As a car designer, what’s the best part of a movie like this for you?
 
Brigid O'Kane: The best part of a movie like this is outrageous high-speed races, extreme vehicle features and over-the-top racing cars. 

Did you grow up with “Speed Racer?”

Brigid O'Kane: I loved watching “Speed Racer” as a child.  I’m definitely a fan.

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