ORIGINAL: fireman7875

Speaking of the chicken and the egg...

Which came first, the demand for electric models due to noise restrictions or the noise restrictions themselves?

Which came first, the marketing of more electric models or the desire for more electric model marketing?

I'm a truck guy, so I'll use this example. When Ford introduced the radically different body style of the 1997 F150, I HATED it. I was used to and attached to the traditional, squared off body style that had been around for years. After a couple more years, though, I grew to like the new body style. Why? What changed my mind? Essentially, there wasn't anything else available. If I wanted a new F150 I would have to accept the new style. The same can be applied to models. If the manufacturers flood the market with new electric products and market them in the correct way...clean and quiet...they convince the consumer that electric airplanes are the greatest thing since the invention of sex. We all like to think that we form our own opinions and make all our own decisions but in reality so much of what we invest our time and money in is driven by the marketing industry. We like what they tell us to like to some degree. I don't completely buy into the idea that the 1/2A sector has nothing new to offer. What great new horizons are there for small electric planes? I see no greater potential for them than for 1/2A aircraft.

"But not everyone can fly 1/2A models because there is no field nearby without a noise restriction", you say. True, and there are places in the US where you can't smoke in public facilities. Do people quit buying cigarettes because there are fewer places to smoke them? So why is the supply drying up? Did all of us on this forum write to Norvel and Cox saying that we would no longer be buying any more 1/2A engines? The supply went away not the demand...we're still pining for the return of Norvel to the market ( I'm still optimistic). I agree, there is less demand than there was in the past. But I propose that it may not be the sole reason for the decrease in engines and the increase in electrics. Isn't it possible that these companies have seen greater profit potential in other lines, such as ready to fly electric airplanes. Rather than expanding their product line and trying to serve two masters, the choose the easiest and most profitable route: shut down the 1/2A production and start selling what they know will make money.

Sorry for the rant; I know it doesn't solve the problem we face as 1/2A enthusiasts. I am just tired of trying to resign myself to the idea that there aren't enough of us to support the business. I can't help but think that we are believing too much of what the industry is telling us. Would the hippies of the 60's have stood for this kind of socialist dictation?

BRING BACK OUR ENGINES!!! ...anyone else feel like having a peaceful demonstration right now?

Brian