When it comes to automotive innovation, few vehicles stand out quite like the ETV, or the “Extra Terrestrial Vehicle,” a unique creation by Mike Vetter, a former kit car builder. The ETV is not your typical vehicle—it’s a product of unconventional thinking and futuristic design. With its space-age look, remarkable features, and an intriguing backstory, the ETV is a car that sparks curiosity and conversation wherever it goes. Let’s take a deep dive into the origins of the ETV, its design, and what makes it one of the most interesting and bizarre cars on the road today.
Mike Vetter’s Journey to Creating the ETV
Mike Vetter’s journey into the world of custom cars is far from ordinary. A former Burger King employee, Vetter’s love for cars led him down a path where he would design some of the most unusual cars in the world. Initially, he worked with Pontiac Fiero-based kits to create Ferrari and Lamborghini replicas. However, after facing legal pressure from Italian automakers, Vetter decided to stop building replicas and instead focused on crafting his own unique creations.
This marked the birth of The Car Factory, a company dedicated to creating one-of-a-kind vehicles. Vetter’s first major project, the ETV, began when he was looking for more space for his growing family. Originally intending to modify his sports car to accommodate his daughter, the project quickly evolved into the creation of an entirely new vehicle. What began as a simple modification soon grew into a full-fledged design that would turn heads with its futuristic aesthetics and groundbreaking features.
Video
Check out the video as Mike Vetter drives the ETV kit car replica space car. It’s an out-of-this-world experience you won’t want to miss!
Design and Specifications of the ETV
The ETV is a vehicle that, at first glance, might seem like a prop from a science fiction movie. With its aerodynamically designed fiberglass body and massive 4.5-foot wide windshield, it is anything but ordinary.
The ETV is a product of meticulous design, with Vetter going to great lengths to source materials that would bring his vision to life. The windshield alone took years to design and find, with Vetter eventually settling on a manufacturer in Peru. The large, unique windshield isn’t just for show—it’s part of what gives the ETV its striking, otherworldly look.
The ETV is built on various platforms, including the Chevrolet Aveo and Cobalt SS. Though it may look like it houses a mid-engine, it is most often constructed as a front-engine, front-wheel drive vehicle. Despite its eye-catching exterior, the ETV is surprisingly practical, offering over 40 miles per gallon thanks to its aerodynamic shape. This balance between style and fuel efficiency makes the ETV not only a marvel to look at but also an affordable vehicle to drive.
The Inside Story: Comfort and Features of the ETV
Inside the ETV, Vetter kept the same futuristic design principles that define the exterior. The vehicle is equipped with features that go beyond the traditional. It boasts gullwing doors, which make getting in and out a breeze while adding to its exotic allure. Inside, the two bucket seats in the front provide ample comfort, while the rear seating is designed in a 2+2 layout. The rear seats are particularly suited for children, with headroom and legroom that can be limiting for adults.
One of the standout features of the ETV is the technology it houses. The car comes equipped with a remote opening system for the gullwing doors, making it not only convenient but also futuristic in its functionality. Additionally, the ETV features a rear hatch for trunk access and a small hood for limited engine bay access. The wheels are cleverly tucked behind aerodynamic doors, which can be opened for tire changes. Some models of the ETV even replaced traditional side mirrors with cameras, further enhancing the vehicle’s sleek and modern design.
Building the ETV on Different Platforms
One of the unique aspects of the ETV is that it can be built on a variety of platforms. The most common of these is the Chevrolet Aveo and Cobalt SS, but Vetter has also created the ETV using other donor cars, such as the Toyota Echo and even the Porsche Boxster. This flexibility in design has allowed the ETV to cater to a variety of customer needs and preferences, with each version being tailored to suit the desired specifications.
The body is largely made from fiberglass, which not only contributes to the vehicle’s light weight but also its futuristic appearance. The unusual design of the ETV has made it an object of fascination for car enthusiasts and collectors alike, and its striking look is a significant reason why it attracts so much attention wherever it goes.
The ETV in the Spotlight
Over the years, the ETV has drawn attention from car enthusiasts and the media. Its unique appearance and cutting-edge design have made it a standout in the world of custom cars. Whether it’s parked at a car show or on the streets, the ETV is a conversation starter. Its futuristic shape, with its smooth curves and bold lines, challenges the traditional notion of what a car should look like.
The ETV’s ability to turn heads has not only made it a fan favorite but also a symbol of Mike Vetter’s creative prowess. The car’s design pushes the boundaries of automotive aesthetics and serves as a testament to the possibilities of car design when there are no limits.
The ETV Project Car Shown Here
The ETV featured in this article is a project car that is currently being sold. This particular vehicle has an intriguing backstory, as it was displayed at the London Motor Museum for several years before the museum closed. Due to the impact of the pandemic and other factors, the museum’s collection was put up for sale, and this ETV is now available for those interested in owning a piece of automotive history.
While the exact specifications of this project car are not entirely clear, it is believed to be based on the Chevrolet Aveo platform with a 1.6-liter engine, though there is also speculation that it may have a 2.2-liter Ecotec engine. Regardless of the specific engine, the ETV remains a fascinating vehicle, both as a collector’s item and a tribute to Vetter’s unique vision.
Video
Watch the video to explore the ‘Extra Terrestrial Vehicle’ ETV concept, a custom-made futuristic car built in Florida. It’s a truly unique creation!
Conclusion
The ETV is not just a car; it’s a statement about creativity, innovation, and the endless possibilities of automotive design. Mike Vetter’s journey from kit car builder to the creator of the Extra Terrestrial Vehicle has resulted in one of the most distinctive and eye-catching cars ever built. While the ETV may not be for everyone, its uniqueness and futuristic charm make it an iconic piece of automotive history.
As we look to the future of automotive design, the ETV serves as a reminder that sometimes, the most outlandish ideas can lead to the most groundbreaking creations. Whether it’s for its unusual aesthetics or its impressive fuel efficiency, the ETV continues to stand out as a testament to one man’s passion for pushing the boundaries of car design. For those who appreciate quirky, custom cars with a futuristic twist, the ETV is a true gem.
