Originally Posted By Hamwich
Originally Posted By Gambalunga

One problem would be to change production techniques to reduce costs to make the car affordable.

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The manufacturing philosophy would have to change from hand made to hand assembled.


I completely agree with your thesis Peter, and for me these two points are completely inextricable.

Consistent construction of a simplified Aero platform with modular installation of a pre-engineered drivetrain is bound to be something that MMC have considered.


We went on a tour of the Bentley factory last week. They seem to have a really good balance between hand assembled and modern automation. We saw automation assisted cutting out of leather trim followed by hand trimming. There is a wonderful wood shop. We also saw a modern assembly track with jigs and lift assisters. Every one we spoke to took an enormous pride in their work and in the product. One of the highlights was talking to a chap who trims steering wheels at the rate of around 2 a day. The scale of the place was enormous compared to Morgan (4000 people building 11,000 cars a year) but we got the impression that they also have something special there.


Paul
Costock, UK
Plus Four 75th - Furka Rouge - Pip
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