Never seen a tie rod made like that before. Seems as if he didn't want it to stick out too far in front and used as a bumper. Looks easy to bend if he hits a pot hole.
That tie rod is certainly different. My tie rod is the traditional straight type and it gets about 1" closer to the axle when the car is turned to full lock - I guess this one has just enough clearance from the axle or is slightly below it. The cog belt drive is very cool and I have never seen one like that except on a blown engine. The guy will not have to worry about belt slippage and it looks good. The car looks great overall.