Disclaimer: I don't have any working knowledge of how the assembly line process and supply chain works in the newest, most modern factories, hence the question.
I've watched automotive assembly lines running with a truck, an SUV, etc all running down the line in random order. With most everything computer-controlled, how hard is it to have various interior, drivetrain, etc options run down the line in no particular order?
The reason I'm asking is simple-
I'm sick of only being able to order a new vehicle with only three packages, two wheel options and 4 gray colors with none of them offering the grouping of options I really want. Back in the day, you could order whatever you wanted with most any other option. At least Porsche is better than most nowadays with a lot of a la carte options. So, in this day and age of computers automating so much of the system, how hard would it be for Scout to buck the option package trend and let us pick our own options? Obviously the options would have to be reasonable, but I don't want to be forced into a sunroof if I want upgraded audio and I don't want all of the crappiest finishes if I opt for a bench seat up front. Is this doable without costing an arm and a leg from a manufacturing perspective? If you're ordering some unusual combinations, paying more of a deposit up front seems reasonable in case something happens and you're unable to take delivery.
I don't expect to be able to change much of anything on the main drivetrain, but I'd like the front sway bar disconnect and locker without a full off-road package, knowing that I'll upgrade my own suspension, wheels/tires and skid plates.
I've watched automotive assembly lines running with a truck, an SUV, etc all running down the line in random order. With most everything computer-controlled, how hard is it to have various interior, drivetrain, etc options run down the line in no particular order?
The reason I'm asking is simple-
I'm sick of only being able to order a new vehicle with only three packages, two wheel options and 4 gray colors with none of them offering the grouping of options I really want. Back in the day, you could order whatever you wanted with most any other option. At least Porsche is better than most nowadays with a lot of a la carte options. So, in this day and age of computers automating so much of the system, how hard would it be for Scout to buck the option package trend and let us pick our own options? Obviously the options would have to be reasonable, but I don't want to be forced into a sunroof if I want upgraded audio and I don't want all of the crappiest finishes if I opt for a bench seat up front. Is this doable without costing an arm and a leg from a manufacturing perspective? If you're ordering some unusual combinations, paying more of a deposit up front seems reasonable in case something happens and you're unable to take delivery.
I don't expect to be able to change much of anything on the main drivetrain, but I'd like the front sway bar disconnect and locker without a full off-road package, knowing that I'll upgrade my own suspension, wheels/tires and skid plates.
