Microcar Wins ConcoursD’Lemons!
photo by Mike Harrell
Mike Harrell’s 1980-era KV won the coveted WORST OF SHOW at this year’s first ConcoursD’Lemons in Montery CA.
The Concours D’Lemons celebrates “The Oddball, Mundane and truly Awful of the Automotive World”
Mike had no idea what “class” was going to be registered in originally, but when he signed up the car he was eligible for:
- Umitigated Gaul, 1970-current
- Oil Burners
- Ass-Engine Sled, Non-Hessian
“I could only dream of winning such special awards as “Most Dangerous” or the doubtless highly coveted “WTF??? Award“ said Mike before the show, “I had a shot at “Most Effluent” but the local emissions facilities will only examine vehicles which are required to be tested under state law and the KV is exempt. Just as well, I suppose.”
What put Mike’s car over the top is its drive system which is “unique” to say the least.
click for larger image
The wheels are free-rolling but driven by a pair of stone cylinders pressing against them. Working much like the capstans in a cassette player, the stone capstan drive looks bizarre and even more bizarre is that it works!
The KV Mini was built in France by the same company that turned out the Rolux and the Solyto, but the market for this car was elderly people who were unable to deal with the formalities of a driver’s test. Power to the rear wheels comes from a mighty 125cc single cylinder 2-stroke motor. Top speed is an alledged 34 mph.
“It’s just an awfully, awful, awful French two-stroke car,” said Alan Galbraith, organizer of the show.
Congratulations Mike!
