Auto enthusiasts got exciting news last fall: Bunim/Murray Productions, the team behind the hit series "Project Runway" would be producing another reality show called "Motor City Masters." Of course, there are already shows about cars, like the popular "Top Gear," which had professionals test driving high-end luxury vehicles in a number of races, challenges and stunts, and "Pimp My Ride," which involved auto repair, upgrades and tune?-ups for customized, tricked out models. Never before has a series delved specifically into the ever-evolving automotive design world, however, and this series will shed a totally different perspective on what it takes to be successful in this competitive realm. So what can viewers expect?
According to Autoblog, the series, which was formerly called "Revved Up," is aimed at giving motorists and car lovers more appreciation for the vehicles they drive. While "Project Runway" gave contestants a chance to showcase their talents for conceptualizing high-fashion attire, this show will involve the conceptualizing of fully-functional, though not street-legal, automobiles.
Star appearances
The production company recently offered a taste of what's to come with a brief teaser trailer, but as Autoblog noted, some of the details are still relatively unclear. However, the source noted that both Jean Jennings of Automobile Magazine and Ford GT designer Camillo Pardo are featured, which is very promising. It has also been announced that the show will be hosted by Brooke Burns of "Baywatch" fame. Even more exciting is the fact that, according to Automobile Magazine, Harald Belker will be a judge. Belker, who studied at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, Calif., has designed a variety of models ranging from sci-fi cars to Hot Wheels toys. As far as the other judges go, a rotating cast of celebrity guests will keep things exciting.
Coveted prizes
A total of ten designers will be competing against each other over the course of the season, with one contestant eliminated at the end of every episode. Each episode will involve a new theme for contestants to tackle, allowing them to show off their unique tastes, talents and style. The surviving two will be pitted against each other for one final challenge.
The stakes are pretty high, too. Automobile Magazine reported that the contestants, all of whom will have a strong background in design, will be competing for not only $100,000 but also a brand new Chevrolet Camaro Z28, a sleek race car that boasts a supercharged 6.2-liter LSA V8 engine with 580 horsepower and 556 pound-feet of torque. According to Autoblog, the coupe is worth about $75,000 and includes more than 190 uniquely lightweight yet highly-functional features that have been specifically designed to maximize speed on a road? course.
"Motor City Masters" will premiere on truTV this summer.