I’m exploring the possibilities of a composite manufacturing business that would specialize in automotive performance parts build from carbon fiber. I know there are several companies already providing hoods, fenders, body panels, etc. but I’d like to know what’s missing from the market.

When you think about your car, what parts do you wish were available in CF?

What parts currently offered in CF do you feel are weak, poor quality or just plain garbage?

 

The show & shine section would probably get you more input on the cosmetic pieces.

The motorsports section will likely tell you:

• custom splitters
• custom canards
• custom diffusers
• don't bother with wings, hoods, trunks (they crack with wings on them), etc. Plenty options already out there
• doors
• headlight delete (only Mueller offers this that I am aware of)

 

Only thing needed really is some form of gel coat that doesnt fade over time. Screw doing carbon fiber if you can find the cure for carbon fiber fade it would be worth the same amount as the cure for aids or cancer. I have yet to purchase a cf product that does not fade from heat or the sun over time from any manufacturer vis, seibon, ect.

 

Thanks for the feedback guys. I agree with the suggestions and the need for a better product that is resistant to heat, fade, ect...I'm sure the people in F1 and top tier motorsports may have a solution just need to do some research and attempt to do it affordability.

 

What is your background if you don't mind me asking?

Large scale 3D modeling, milling, vacuum bagging + autoclave are not insignificant investments.

Personally I feel the only thing missing in the market today are high quality composite OEM panels and unfortunately I probably would not even be able to afford them.

 

Instead of trying to do the manufacturing yourself, why not develop working relationships with existing manufacturers. Then you offer carbon pieces from your choice of providers based on price and quality. Like a US version of Carbongoodies in the UK http://www.carbongoodies.co.uk/

You could even learn to hand lay carbon yourself and offer that for "one off" projects that are not worth mass producing.

 

Side skirt Extensions all you need.... Only rexspeed (To my knowledge) makes them...

 

when will carbon ceramic brakes be an option for Evo 9?

 

If you are thinking about making fake carbon fiber parts which are just fiberglass pieces with a carbon fiber layer laid on top sealed in a gel coat then have fun competing with China. These parts are literally everywhere in the industry and all anyone has to do is make a part from fiberglass and send it to a manufacturer in China to be copied into CF.

However, there is a niche demand for real CF parts.

 

What about some proper carbon gear shift surround (5 and 6 speed), carbon double and single din radio surrounds and power window switch surrounds. Ralliart used to do these parts and genuine Ralliart parts are now collector items and as such are mega expensive. Thinking of getting my original parts hydroprinted to match my 9's dash insert but genuine carbon would be better and more desirable.