VECTRA

Designed originally in 1972, the VECTRA still strikes an ultra-modern chord. This is one of John Silva's trademarks -- futuristic design, frequently twenty years ahead of popular opinion. This aluminum monocoque also bristles with technical concepts and leading-edge technological innovations which were equally advanced in their day, and are only now becoming realistic in production terms. While it is easy to discount how advanced the ideas were, the length of time it has taken to move them from the drawing board to real-world application is solid testimony to John's foresight and perseverance. The VECTRA has evolved as opportunities presented themselves; between opportunities is has been set aside for the "bread and butter" projects.

In 1984 a Los Vegas investor contacted SILVA Designs to explore the development of a solar powered car. The VECTRA concept car was reasonably well advanced in terms of its design and the influx of cash permitted the development of an actual prototype shell, complete with chassis, suspension, driveline and computer controls. The VECTRA could not be made totally "solar" but the investor accepted the idea of a multi-energy powered design as a viable alternative. As the multi-energy-source concept evolved, it also proved too expensive for the technologies of the day. John was again left as sole proprietor, but now with a physical expression of how the car might look.

Major features for the VECTRA include gull wing doors, servo-assisted seats and dash which raise up to meet the occupant, a swing axle suspension ideally suited to electric propulsion systems, a very lightweight highly strengthened monocoque for occupant safety, headlights in the roof of the car (to get adequate height) and sequential (safety) tail lights which warn following cars of the precise state of throttle or brake application. John's current thinking involves a conventional power system (probably two-stroke) but he also has an evolution of his multi-energy high mileage concept which he would like to explore.

Text by Brent Silverwood & John Silva

Photos Copyright © 1988 - 2005 Scott Makula