Robert Q. Riley Enterprises, a product design firm in Glendale, Ariz., has announced the release of construction plans for anyone who wants to build its XR3, a two-passenger, plug-in hybrid that they say can travel up to 225 miles per gallon.
Robert Q. Riley Enterprises says the three-wheel sports car's modular design can be outfitted with different power trains to create a 125-mpg, diesel-only vehicle; a 100-mile-range, battery-only vehicle; or a hybrid for increased performance and fuel versatility.
"During the two years it took to develop the XR3, we received more than 2,500 advanced order reservations for the plan set," said Robert Q. Riley, company president.
Interested do-it-yourselfers can by the plans for the hybrid from the company for $200. In addition to printed drawings and instructions, the do-it-yourself plans include electronic 3D models that can be viewed on an ordinary PC, computer files vendors can use to make parts, and a DVD that shows the car being built. The company's website also has a do-it-yourself forum which features a gallery of some vehicle projects completed by others.
