Whether you’re anxiously awaiting to go see the new Star Wars movie this opening week, or are a more casual “I’ll get it when it’s on DVD” fan, you have to admit this Hot Wheels Darth Vader concept car is pretty cool.
The phrase “big boy toy” has never been more fitting when it comes to the (fully functional) Hot Wheels Darth Vader car. That’s not to say this vehicle should be taken lightly, though, as it still packs performance; it did start out as a Chevrolet Corvette after all.
The car’s intended purpose is to be a “vehicular expression of character,” as explained by the designer of the car, Bryan Benedict. “Powerful, menacing, strong,” these were the adjectives Benedict used for inspiration as he drew up potential ideas for the Star Wars Vader-mobile. The inspirations eventually led to the features we see on the car, such as the custom 5-spoke wheels with the Empire’s logo as center caps, built by MHT. He also explains that part of the Star Wars car’s design – specifically the roofline – was greatly influenced by the Bugatti Atlantic, which happened to be sitting right there in Jay Leno’s garage.
Billy Hammon, the man responsible for the transformation of the Corvette going to the Dark Side, also pays a visit to Leno’s garage, and explains some of the finer details of the car. He actually shows off one of our favorite things about the Darth Vader car – the way it opens, like a helmet, one might say. Sure, sounds like an odd thing to praise, but just wait until you see how awesome it is.
Of course, Mr. Leno ends up taking the Star Wars car for a spin, and shows us just how wicked the dark side really is. See this, and find out much more about the Darth Vader concept as you watch the video.
No Comments yet