How tight is the cockpit?
Eric Barge (EM Motors' President) is 6'2" tall and fits comfortably. The pedals are adjustable in height and can be placed to suit. The seats in the standard model are fixed (bolted to the floor pan), but we can add seat slider rails if necessary. The steering column is tiltable and the position can be adjusted to some degree. When the doors are closed there is a lot of elbow room underneath.

Does the car have heat?
Yes. The standard equipped EM578 has both a heated defroster and cabin heat with controls. Air conditioning is optional.

Is the windshield safety glass?
Yes. The windshield and rear window behind the driver's head are AS-1 DOT compliant laminated safety glass. The side windows, headlight covers and rear engine bay window are thermoformed polycarbonate.

What system do you use to shift gears?
We use a cable shifter assembly that employs a short throw shifter with (2) control cables. This allows us to keep the original shift pattern and eliminate mechanical components that are prone to wear. The shifter throw is adjustable and delivers very tight shifting control.

Can I have my EM578 in a different color than red?
Yes. We will finish your EM578 in any other solid color for no additional charge. Custom colors and metallic paint can be used also. Please contact us in advance to discuss the details.

I drive in stop and go traffic. Does the car overheat?
No. The engine is cooled via (2) rear mounted, thermostatically controlled fan forced radiators. The fans automatically force air through the radiators when the engine temperature reaches 185 degrees F. The (2) radiators have approximately 1/3 more surface area than a typical V8 radiator so idling in summer traffic is no problem.

Does the cockpit get hot?
No. Because the radiators are mounted behind the driver's compartment, all the heat flows out the rear of the car.

Can I buy an EM578 as a kit?
No. At this time we do not offer a kit.

How do I register the EM578?
Registration varies widely from state to state and country to country so please check with your local DMV office to understand their requirements. Most DMV web sites are very helpful with these questions. As far as New York State is concerned, the process is as follows: First, you obtain an application to register a custom vehicle. Next, a completed application is sent to the main DMV office with (4) photos of the car, a manufacturers statement of origin (MSO - we supply this document), proof of ownership with serial numbers from the engine and transaxle and a certified weight slip (truck stops usually have certified scales and can weigh the car for a small fee). Next the DMV office will approve your application and give you an appointment to have the car inspected. Once you take the car to inspection, the inspectors will assign a VIN number to your car (the same day) and it's ready for you to register and drive it home! Please know that we will assist throughout this process as best we can.

How do I get insurance?
We have done business in the past with the Hagerty agency. They are very helpful and insure many different types of collector/custom cars. An internet search for "kit car insurance" will reveal many options for insurance companies that deal with this type of policy.

What about Emission controls and catalyitc converters?
The level of emission controls required generally depends on what the original engine was fitted with. For example if you install an engine from a 1965 Malibu you would only need to install the emission controls from that engine, maybe as simple as crankcase ventilation. If you were to install a modern fuel injected engine you may be required to install EGR, catalytic converters, O2 sensors, etc. In any case, be sure to check with your local DMV to be sure. We have built cars with catalytic converters and other emission components. We will work with you to accomplish this.

How does the car ride?
It rides surprisingly well for a high performance vehicle. It is not jouncy or rough at all and spring/shock combos can be adjusted to provide as soft a ride as desired.

Is it noisy inside the cockpit?
The noise level in the cockpit depends on the type of engine installed, the exhaust system configuration and driving style. Our demonstrator car has a 408hp engine without catalytic converters and it sounds great! Having a conversation with your passenger at highway speeds is no problem! If you stomp on it - well, that's a different story!

How long does it take to recieve my new EM578?
Typically it takes between 16 and 24 weeks depending on how the car is optioned. Lead times will vary with workload demands and current market conditions. At the time you place your order we will inform you of our current leadtime situation. As your car is being built, we will update you regularly as to it's progress.

Can I visit your facility and see the car in person?
Yes, we would love to show you around. Please contact us for an appointment.

Can I test drive the EM578?
Yes. If we have a demonstrator car available at the time of your request we will arrange for a test drive. Of course it is also weather dependant as we are located in snow country! Please no joy riders - we hope you understand.