Importing Cobras into the USA

[johnnycobra]

Now heres a tricky one. I find myself in a situation where I may need to find a way to take my Euro 427 (SVA next week, wish me luck!) into the USA. Its a long story; I am originally English, lived in the states for 17 years, was brought back to the UK 'on assignment' by my employer, decided to build Cobra and now, slightly ahead of time I am being recalled. The timing could not be worse. I have put so much work and skin from my knuckles into that car that I really do not want to sell it ( I probably wouldn't get my money back anyway)and would prefer to take it with me. Maybe even rebuild it with some US parts. I have checked the EPA and NY State DMV and provisions are made for kit cars but not too much detail on the import exercise itself. The engine will probably fail EPA emissions regs so I would replace it when I arrive with a US engine. In New York where I live there is an SVA type test that is required for amateur built vehicles which includes an emissions test which is required for registration. However in order to import a full or part built car, it must already confrom to EPA standards. What I want to do is import the 'part built' kit and source the engine when I get there. Simple. But it falls in between the two requirements.

Anybody had any experience with this? Any Cobra builders export to the US? I would really appreciate any advice.

And for those of you (you know who you are) who have offered me so much helpful advice during my build, just to prove that it has resulted in progress, I have attached a picture of the beast. Still needs some finishing touches, and will be sprayed over winter (if I can resolve the problem above). Like the wheels?
Cheers

John

[kdavies3]

Hi John, I suggest you post the question on the US "clubcobra.com" site I'm sure they'll be able to help. :thumb:

[johnnycobra]

Hi Kev

Thats a great suggestion. I registered there and have received a few replies but most seem to focus on importing across state lines. Let's see what else turns up.

John