KitCarlson EMS Poll, How many should I build ??? Options

[KitCarlson]

Hey,

I know this question has a difficult answer. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/huh.gif) I would like to know a ball park number of EMS units to build in the first release. I need to order the mechanical parts and work with a contract manufacturer for the board build. Setup costs can be a significant cost for small orders. Lead time is also a concern.

Why is this question difficult? You are being asked to suggest to me your potential interest without knowing the exact cost or performance of the system.

The beta test unit is not yet in operation due to Brad's move. It was my hope to have un-biased tests in progress at this time. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/ohmy.gif) I have been working on the system full time since the start in October. The next step is to be production ready.

For those wondering what is the EMS. It is an engine management system that provides direct ignition, fuel, idle, and turbo boost control for VW and Porsche engines. It uses a special optical distributor sensor means to avoid the mechanical difficulties in crank/cam sensors. The ignition timing is electronic. The unit provides an easy upgrade for the D-Jetronic or L-Jetronic systems. The system will be sold turn-key with all parts and harness.
For more information please visit: http://home.mindspring.com/~dave.c/kitcarlson/

Please use a personal message to suggest your interest. I will answer questions you may have.

I really appreciate this BB that works to unite all 914 owners, and a means to conduct this poll.

Kit

[KitCarlson]

All,

Thanks for all the good comments and advice.
I realize the demand from the 914 market will be small at first. I expect word of mouth by those first few users will quickly help sell to others.

It will also be necessary to tap the VW market. The type3 crowd, first to replace the D-jets. Then the type4 bus market.

The VW type1 market requires the rare injector manifolds, and throttle body available on 1975+ FI bugs, or parts from late Mex. beetles or custom manifolds. The individual throttle approach, will work, however may not provide the best cost/benefit ratio.

It is time for me to take some additional financial risks, meet with the contract mfgs. about assembly costs on volumes larger than the very few, I can sell at first. I will have to maintain the cost of additional inventory and full reels of build parts.

Within a month, if successful, I will release the retail price of the EMS kit(s), less wiring harness cost.
There will be planned group installs. Once in production I have some time to attend shows and swap meet to demonstate and sell, and install systems. I will start local, then venture out.

There might be a FI only unit, that will not require the distributor modification. My guess is cost will be only be about $200 less. No electronic timing, or efficient high energy spark capability.

I also expect to continue with value added software applications for data loging and setup capabilities. The units are also capable of future software upgrades.

I have also consided the development of graphical electronic instrument panel with data collection capability, to be used with the EMS, however the sales volume will suggest if this will happen.

Kit