Scotch, wine, watches, and cars all have one thing in common. The best specimens are usually only available in small batches. In November, I made a connection with Local Motors. It stuck. I met with Jay, Sarah, and Ariel again in Austin during SXSW, and they are doing well. The Rally Fighter continues to impress and is nearing production readiness, and the plans for the first micro-factory in Arizona are well underway. I mention Local Motors not only because I think they have a big future, but also because my experience with that company has changed how I look at other small-batch manufacturers. I have always been amazed how many start-up car companies seem to come and go, but even more amazed at the success of the handful that have stuck around. Pagani is the first that comes to mind, and with the imminent delivery of the Zonda successor, they appear to be in it for the long haul. Koenigsegg seems to be holding its own as well, well e...
Some charming bits that explain how I got here.