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Connecticut resident builds Transformers-tribute vehicle

Dec 04, 2019

Ledyard, Connecticut resident Josh Wilson has been a fan of Transformers since he can remember. Over time he has amassed an impressive collection of figures, collectibles, and die-cast toys. 


But in 2015, Wilson decided it was time to step up and turn his passion for a fandom into a living Transformer-tribute vehicle. Committing to build his very own Autobot with the hopes of making a positive difference in his community. 


Wilson, the independent owner, operator, funder and designer of Rev took a 1998 Honda Accord LX Sedan and modified it into a unique and very impressive piece of rolling artwork. 


"Rev has been in my family since the day she rolled onto the dealership's lot in 1997", says Wilson. She was owned by my grandparents for a while and then passed down to me. " 


Eventually Josh was ready to see what his creative mind could do with this aging Honda...despite an engine and transmission that is quickly approaching 300,000 miles. And his creativity does not disappoint!


Wilson picks up the story from here...
"She started out as just a hobby. A wild and crazy transformer car that stood out against the sea of modified cars, in a class of her own. But in 2018 Rev found her new purpose on this planet, as a symbol for charity. She stands out more than ever to inspire her friends, and show the world that 'It really doesn't matter where you come from, what you have, or what you look like. If you keep driving and doing your own thing the way you want to do it, eventually, the world will see just how awesome you are!'

When I first started with Rev, I knew I wanted to create my own persona for this car. So in her first stages I called the car 'RattleTrap', as I had little faith in how long the car would last. My first modifications were just Autobot stickers and some Behr Ultra wall paint for a blue trim. 

Then one day I decided an Autobot should have the proper weapons. So I started building some. They were small at first, and through the years got bigger and bolder. Some of them now permanently fixed to her body. 

I painted her by hand, found her some wheels, started modifying the body, and finally realized that "Rattletrap" was no longer a suitable name for this car. It took me a while to come up with it, but that's how Rattletrap became 'Rev.'

When I started getting more daring in the very beginning of 2019, I ended up scrapping the original armored bumper and giving her one of her most prominent features: an armored double hood with lights, and more weaponry. 

Rev's [Energon] lights are certainly my favorite feature. She can truly light up any area you place her in!"
According to Wilson, Rev's real mission started in 2018 when he found out that Optimus Is Here was coming to Connecticut for a Wishes on Wheels event. 

Wilson continues...

"We managed to get into the event at the last second. And for the first time I got the chance to meet Optimus Prime and get photos of my own creation next to the most recognizable Transformer in the world."

Since then, Optimus owner Joe Fiduccia and Wilson have partnered on a variety of projects and appearances. They teamed up again several times in 2019 for a Motorsports Expo, a unique reveal experience for a family in Massachusetts, and at the 2019 Dream Ride for the special Olympians. 

Rev also made her longest trip yet...visiting Pennsylvania to join Optimus at a small car show, finishing the day with a private event for one of the bravest kids Rev has ever met. 

When asked what his favorite event with Rev has been overall, Wilson tells us: "I would say it's the Wishes on Wheels event. Before this, Rev was just an independent Autobot, freelancing around and showing up at basic car shows and places where she generally did not fit in whatsoever. But when I got the chance to bring her to see Optimus, it not only showed me that I can do great things with Rev to benefit earth and the people that live on it, but it also got Rev's giant Cybertronian foot in the door with a group of vehicles and owners that are just like her. 

Finally, she'd found a place where she actually fit in, and it was very much appreciated!"

Wilson tells us that Rev's basic mission in the years ahead is to continue on with what they've been doing so far. 

"She will continue growing, picking up more followers, fans, and friends to inspire. However, we are hoping to capture the eyes of Hasbro. I'm not sure what I'd like to have happen once we get their attention, but Rev wants to be recognized by Hasbro as a true Transformer and see just how far she can really go to establish herself in the world."

We are honored to partner with Wilson, and encourage you to follow Rev's journey on Facebook.  Because their mission is one that is worthy of a Prime!

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