A British car enthusiast has managed to construct a road-legal single-seater sports car from the comfort of his own garage, spending only $7,000 in the process. Robert Ely, the creator, combined off-the-shelf components from both motorcycles and cars to bring his vision to life, resulting in a unique vehicle he calls the Gasolini AR1. The finished car has been officially approved for use on public roads in the UK.
The Gasolini AR1 is not designed to chase extreme performance numbers on a racetrack. Instead, it focuses on a lightweight construction philosophy, powered by a modified 2017 Honda CBR500 twin-cylinder motorcycle engine. This powerplant is cleverly mounted directly beneath the driver's seat and paired with a 6-speed gearbox. With a maximum output of just 47 horsepower, the car tops out at around 72 miles per hour, while still achieving an impressive fuel economy figure of 41 miles per gallon.
Ely deliberately chose to keep the top speed modest to ensure the vehicle remains enjoyable at legal road speeds. This approach allows drivers to experience the fun of spirited driving without constantly breaking the law, while also maintaining low fuel consumption even when pushing the car harder. The design philosophy prioritizes usability and efficiency over outright velocity.
In terms of construction, the car relies heavily on readily available parts and salvaged components from other vehicles. Ely hand-built the chassis himself, making a conscious effort to avoid complex curved body panels. This decision means the car's bodywork can be fabricated using simpler manufacturing techniques, which significantly reduces potential maintenance and repair costs down the line.
Ely has also taken the Gasolini AR1 to local racetracks to pit it against production models. While its power and top speed fall far short of modern sports cars, the extremely low curb weight and custom-built suspension deliver a remarkably direct and engaging driving experience. The lightweight nature of the vehicle allows it to handle corners with agility, proving that speed isn't everything when it comes to driving pleasure.
Currently, the Gasolini AR1 has obtained its legal road certification, but Ely has no plans to mass-produce or sell the vehicle as a complete package. Instead, he offers a detailed build manual for $27, providing comprehensive step-by-step instructions for anyone interested in constructing this unique car from scratch. The manual covers everything needed to replicate his creation, allowing other enthusiasts to embark on their own DIY automotive journey.