Alfred J DiMora is one of the most "colorful" characters in the custom car world. In other words, the larger-than-life entrepreneur's ambitions have hit the skids more than once. In terms of cars, we're thinking of the 3000 lbs., three-speed, fiberglass-bodied (with MG doors) Excaliber-esque pastiche known as the Sceptre. Back when jeans had bells, DiMora's company built just fifteen of 500 planned cars before going belly-up. Since '06, the indefatigable DiMora is aiming a LOT higher. He's looking to build "the world's first $2 million production automobile." To that end, DiMora has hired (though not paid) Detroit's Advanced Technology & Design to perform the patternless casting needed to create the Natalia SLS 2's V16 "Volcano" engine components. Yup, DiMora's dreamed-up a 14-liter, 1200 horsepower powerplant for his baby "that gets excellent mileage." In case you were wondering about DiMora Motorcars' ultimate ambitions, their motto is "Let us drive your dreams." Just so.
[podcast with Advanced Technology & Design Prez Clifford Sands below]
I went to the website..and it is pretty ugly for a two million dollar car. Maybe I am missing the point, but for that kind of money, it needs to be stunning in every single way. I am sure that a few rappers and Arab oil tycoons will snatch up a handful of them though, simply because it is a $2 million more in image they can flash around like a gold necklace.
I’m sure the world needs a car like this, really I am sure.
14 litres ? pfffft
There’s a guy here with 27 litres in a passenger car.
Another V16 exotic? Giorgio Moroder must be pleased.
I also looked at the “artist renderings” on the website. Am I the only one that thinks it looks like the Bat Mobile?
Let me ask one more question. Isn’t this just a more-expensive Maybach backed by a company less likely to be around to service them in a few years? People weren’t (and aren’t) beating down Maybach’s (MB’s) door to get one, so what makes this so special, other than the V16? And 1200 horsepower? In an enthusiast ride (like the Bugatti Veyron), I can understand, but in a sports sedan? Yikes!
Actually, I suppose it’s closer to a Bentley, as Maybach’s are generally chauffeured, but still, I just don’t see the point.
I thought Bugatti lost money or just broke even on every Veyron they sold. Aren’t they going to start making money on that investment when they finally come out with the miniVeyron. How is this guy going to make a more advanced car with a price tag of 1/2 mil more and not loss his ass on it. I feel bad for the guy you interviewed this could end up being a financial disaster for an otherwise good company.
Why would you buy a 2 million dollar car that costs 1.5 million to build from this guy when you can buy one from Bugatti that costs 6?
Alfred DiMora, the founder of DiMora Motorcar, based in Palm Springs, California, is known for his expertise in designing high-end luxury cars such as the Clenet and Sceptre.
That is a great quote. Known for his expertise in design, eh? But not for selling. & that almost sounds like being infamous.