GARDNER, Kan. (KCTV) – Thousands of spectators turned out to see the craftsmanship of hundreds of custom car builders Saturday, all hopeful that their car is the one chosen as the next Hot Wheels miniature.
This year, the Hot Wheels competition will make 25 stops in 17 countries.
The winner at each of the US competitions will move on to a national semifinal later this year. The winner there will represent the United States in the final international showdown.
Each car is judged based off of authenticity, creativity and garage spirit.
Kansas City local Clint DeVine won this year’s competition with his custom 1990 Chevrolet S10 Truck. DeVine’s vehicle design was inspired by his grandmother’s antiques and western styling.
The Chevrolet features custom body work, a lowered stance and distinctive patina, and DeVine even installed a custom air suspension in his winning car.
Each year’s winner is die-cast into a Hot Wheels, which shoppers will then see on store shelves across the globe.
On display at the Kansas City area show were five previous winners since turned into toys…