Hackmobile Transit Connect wins Ford and MAKE magazine grand prize

Automakers have customization contests all the time, but that doesn’t always mean they’ll produce what the enthusiasts create. Splitting from tradition, Ford said it will build the Hackmobile Transit Connect Wagon that won its Ultimate Maker Vehicle Challenge.

The Hackmobile was designed by Jon Atkinson, Becca Steffen, Riley Harrison and Michael Freiert, members of Twin Cities Maker.

The idea is for the wagon to transport a three-axis CNC machine to use in fabricating. The Hackmobile will have shelves and storage for tools, making it a full-scale 3D workshop.

A “maker” is a person who likes to create things in their spare time. Many work with their hands, but now with 3D printers like MakerBot, they can design nearly anything that can be hewn from plastic or metal. MAKE magazine celebrates the makers and the things they use to create.

“The sky is the limit with vehicles like Ford Transit Connect, and we’re very excited to surprise the Hackmobile team and make their dream vehicle into a reality,” said Sherry Kollien, Ford SEMA vehicle project manager.

MAKE magazine will award the design team $10,000 as the grand prize.

The public was allowed to vote once per day, for as many days as they wanted. The concepts were judged on overall design and customization, as well as maker spirit, according to Ford.

Learn more about the contest and check out some of the runners-up here.

By Jake Lingeman