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Serpent, 1/8 buggy intro, part 2 (28/12/2009)

By:: Reporter
Linked to:: Cobra 811 1/8 4wd buggy, Cobra TE 1/8 4wd buggy, Cobra 811 Buggy 2.0 1/8 4wd buggy, Cobra Buggy 2.1 4wd 1/8, Cobra Buggy 2.2 GP 4wd 1/8

Part 2 of the Intro of the Serpent 1/8 buggy project with Billy Easton

In the next couple of weeks we introduce you to the Serpent 1/8 buggy development, testing, production and racing.

Below the 2nd of 4 interviews with Billy Easton the designer / racer of the Serpent 1/8 buggy. The Serpent 1/8 buggy is the first move into the offroad market, to be followed by a Truggy and electric versions, as well as Ready to race cars in the near future. Design-wise Billy Easton works closely together with Michael Salven. With Michael being the expert in gas onroad, Billy will perform this task for the offroad projects. In this way true experts look after the class they know best and actively race in and can support best. Still sharing idea's and knowledge to create the very best rc racing cars around.

Billy Easton
Stage 2 interview:

Hello Billy,

Serpent buggy
We like to continue on the 1st interview with below questions.

Q
Are you happy with the progress on the buggy 1/8 project ? Still on target for Introduction at the Nurnberg Toy-Fair 2010 ?
A
The progress of the buggy is coming along quite nicely now. With so many parts that make up a kit, I would say there are far more approved than those that are not. So, as far as the manufacturing end goes, it’s definitely looking very promising. For sure we can show the car at the Nuremburg Toy-fair.

Q
Have you been able to run a production proto-type of the Serpent buggy yet ?
If yes, then how did it go ?
A
Yes, actually I have a complete sample car here that I have been able to do some very intensive test-sessions already at a local track. To be honest, it has actually gone really well. The handling of the Serpent car is very balanced and feels quite neutral. Considering the setup had never been tested before, I was still able to post some really good lap times. Most of the local guys that were on lookers, commented on the amount of traction it was producing.

Q
What would you see as the 5 main strong points in the design of the Serpent S8xx ?
A
I would say
The simplicity.
The low center of gravity
Balance in all directions (left to right , front to back)
Durability in design to finish long mains
Suspension geometry on all 4 corners

Q
Can you advice which price-point the car is aimed at, upon release ? and do you have an update on the release date ?
A
From the very start we really wanted to have a competitive price. I figure with all the bells and whistles you will probably see the price tag in your local hobby shops at well below $600 US dollars. I think when you see the finish and quality of all the materials; you will wonder how we were able to give you such a high quality car for so little money and still turn a profit.
As far as the release date, I would suspect if we are able to show a pre production car at the Nuremburg Toy-fair it would be release for sale shortly after, we still aim for march delivery.

Thanks Billy, and we will be back with more questions in stage 3, early january 2010, with more detailed information.

Happy holidays !

Team Serpent