Subaru, Gull Wings & EVs - Malcolm Bricklin’s Empire (Part 1)

In Part 1 of this two part Break/Fix podcast, we interview Malcolm Bricklin, a pioneering figure in the automotive industry. Bricklin discusses his journey from importing small cars from Europe and Japan in the 1960s to founding Subaru of America in 1968 and introducing the Subaru 360 to the American market. He also recounts his effort to create his own sports car, the Bricklin SV-1, renowned for its safety features and distinctive gullwing doors. Throughout the conversation, Bricklin shares anecdotes about his dealings with automotive giants and his ventures, including his involvement in the electric bike industry and his plans for a revolutionary hydrogen-powered vehicle. The discussion highlights Bricklin's entrepreneurial spirit, his ability to navigate industry challenges, and his ongoing influence in the world of cars. ===== (Oo---x---oO) ===== 00:00 Malcolm Bricklin's Early Career 01:02 The Subaru 360 and Beyond 02:37 The C Box Machine Venture 05:30 The Scooter Dilemma 09:23 Breakthrough with the New York Police 12:04 The Scooter Rental Business 15:37 Importing Subaru to the USA 22:49 Challenges with Consumer Reports 26:40 Building the Bricklin SV-1 30:35 Collaboration with John DeLorean 33:53 The Cost of Innovation 34:29 Hiring Irv Bras: A Unique Encounter 36:02 The Inspiration Behind the SV-1's Gullwing Doors 37:16 Engineering Challenges and Breakthroughs 42:00 The Chairman's Car: A New Vision 43:03 Battles with the Big Three 48:02 The End of the Bricklin SV-1 50:28 Lessons Learned and Future Plans 55:14 From Electric Bikes to Hydrogen Cars 58:12 Closing Remarks and Future Episodes ==================== The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net More Information: Visit Our Website Become a VIP at: Patreon Online Magazine: Gran Touring Follow us on Social: Instagram