Softbank Corp., Japan's leading Internet investor, and its automotive affiliate, Model E Corp., said Monday that Model E will design and manufacture cars according to orders placed by customers over the Internet from next year.
The build-to-order service, the first of its kind in the auto industry, will enable Model E to produce vehicles with no inventory, according to the companies.
Model E, based in Fremont, Calif., will first offer the service in California in the first quarter of 2001.
Customers will be able to order personalized vehicles by choosing designs on the company's Web site, with the cars being produced at micro-factories associated with Model E.
Model E is currently accepting orders to customize the appearance, performance and electronics of a limited number of existing high-end vehicles.