Rodin Cars unveils FZED, a single-seater that weighs 644 kg / 1,344 lbs

Rodin Cars, a young but ambitious company from New Zealand, has just demonstrated to us that it can do more than talk. After announcing a ‘Valkyrie-beating’ hypercar, it actually released its first vehicle. Meet the FZED, a single-seat racecar based on the 2011 Lotus T125.

Powering the Rodin FZED is a 3.8-liter Cosworth V8 capable of 675 hp (503 kW) at 9,600 RPM. The engine is designed for 3,000 miles (~4,800 kilometers) of use before replacement, but in the context of Formula One vehicles this is actually an adequate value.

Inspired by the idea of making a nearly F1-compliant vehicle, the company sourced some of the best racecar components from leading international vendors. The list includes a Ricardo 6-speed sequential transmission, Brembo brakes, Öhlins adjustable shock absorbers, and Avon racing-grade wheels and tires.

The carbon car weighs in at a meager 644 kg (1,344 lbs) and comes priced at what amounts to $650,000 USD. How many more will be built, if any, remains unknown, especially since the Lotus T125 itself had a strictly limited production run.