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From toy to reality the Camaro Hot Wheels® Edition
When I was kid I was not a big fan of Hot Wheels® cars and tracks. I preferred slot cars that powered themselves rather than relying on gravity. Slot cars went the way of the transistor radio but Hot Wheels® have continued on and have now inspired a real, full size version to be brought to by Chevrolet.
The Camaro Hot Wheels® Edition will arrive at Chevrolet dealerships early next year. It’s the first time a full-size, production Hot Wheels® car has been offered for sale by any manufacturer though full size versions have been created for the car show circuit but not the showroom floor. The Camaro Hot Wheels® Edition is based on the original Custom Camaro 1:64-scale toy from 1968 which was one of the original 16 Hot Wheels issued.
The Camaro Hot Wheels® Edition has debuted at the SEMA Show, in Las Vegas. A special run of the Camaro Hot Wheels® Edition will be produced in the first quarter of 2013 and like the collectable toys on which it is based it will be a limited run.
The appearance of the Camaro Hot Wheels® Edition mimics the pocket size version including a vibrant, graphics-accented metallic paint scheme and red-lined wheels. The result is meant to be instantly recognizable as a Hot Wheels.
The Camaro Hot Wheels® Edition is available in coupe and convertible models powered by either a 2LT (V-6) or 2SS (V-8). Taking exterior cues from the Camaro ZL1 the Hot Wheels® Edition will come in Kinetic Blue and covered in unique graphics. Exterior highlights include a ZL1 rear spoiler (coupe models), ZL1 front upper grille, a round effects package, including front splitter and rocker treatment, black 21-inch wheels with red outline stripe, two-tone matte hood graphic and rear taillight panel “blackout” graphic, fender “flame” graphics and Hot Wheels grille and decklid logos.
Inside there is a black leather-trimmed interior is accented with red and black seat stitching with the Hot Wheels logo embroidered on the front seats. The instrument panel and door inserts are black, with the Hot Wheels-style flame decal on each door. Hot Wheels® Edition sill plates also distinguish the car, along with Camaro-logo premium floor mats with red edging.
The SS models feature a 6.2L V-8, which is offered in two versions, the “L99” on automatic-equipped vehicles and the “LS3” on manual-equipped models. Horsepower for the L99 is 400 (298 kW) and torque is 410 lb.-ft. (556 Nm) and it features fuel-saving Active Fuel Management. The LS3 develops 426 horsepower (318 kW) and 420 lb.-ft. (569 Nm) of torque.
For the less adventurous there is a LT-model that features the “LFX” 3.6L V-6 engine, with dual-overhead camshafts, variable valve timing and direct injection. It’s rated at 323 horsepower at 6,800 rpm.
A dual-mode exhaust system is available on SS models with the six-speed manual transmission, as well as LT models with either the manual or automatic transmission. Similar to the systems found on the Camaro ZL1, the vacuum-actuated system provides a quieter driving experience at low engine speeds and a more aggressive sound during hard acceleration.
Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system is standard on the Camaro Hot Wheels® Edition. Its color touch radio, with a seven-inch touch screen, also can be paired with an available in-dash GPS navigation system. The color touch radio with MyLink enables a higher level of in-vehicle wireless connectivity and customized infotainment options, while building on the safety and security of OnStar. It seamlessly integrates online services such as Pandora® internet radio and Stitcher SmartRadio® using hands-free voice and touch-screen controls via Bluetooth-enabled phones.
No word on price but you can bet you'll need a pretty hefty allowance to buy this toy.
10/30/12
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