NEWS

Fender and Mattel collaborate for one-of-a-kind Hot Wheels collection

Published on: 11th March 2022

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation’s Fender Custom Shop has announced the launch of a special collaboration with Mattel and Hot Wheels.

Created by the Shop’s team of 11 master builders and five apprentice builders, the Fender Custom Shop Hot Wheels collection consists of 16 one-of-a-kind, bespoke designs inspired by the die-cast vehicles introduced by Mattel in 1968.

Each guitar in the collection is designed with careful attention to unique designs, graphics and Hot Wheels colour shades that stay true to the 1:64 scale cars. In addition, each model comes with a Hot Wheels strap and pick set as well as a custom Hot Wheels Hardshell case, all adorned in the brand’s signature orange and blue, as well as a Hot Wheels die-cast that its associated guitar is inspired by and a certificate of authenticity.

“We’re honoured to be working with Mattel to bring this Hot Wheels collection to life,” says Mike Lewis, VP Product Development, Fender Custom Shop. “For years, we’ve taken a deep source of inspiration from the automobile industry and with such a unique take on cars, Hot Wheels was always a dream partner. Each builder crafted their own guitar with world-class creativity and we can’t wait for people globally to see these collectible products.”page1image15070912

“The Hot Wheels team is thrilled to create such a special collection of guitars with the global leaders of musical instruments at Fender Custom Shop,” says Ted Wu, Global Head of Hot Wheels Design at Mattel. “Both of our brands trace their roots back to California, with Hot Wheels embodying SoCal car culture and Fender synonymous with Los Angeles rock ’n’ roll. We can’t wait for artists and car enthusiasts alike to see these one-of-a-kind designs.”

The collection features a variety of established models, including the Stratocaster, Precision Bass, Telecaster, Jaguar and Katana.

“Hot Wheels rides have been just as much part of our team’s childhood as classic guitars, so getting the opportunity to create one-of-a-kind instruments inspired by some of our favourite cars has been a dream,” says Dennis Galuszka, FCS Master Builder. “Each builder brought their own unique take to the design process, which was influenced by years of childhood nostalgia and the iconic orange track. The final results are works of art that pay tribute to both Fender and Hot Wheels.”

As the bestselling toy in the world, Hot Wheels has become a worldwide powerhouse franchise with live and virtual events on almost every continent, sought-after consumer products and top-tier collaborations, a number-one-rated content channel on YouTube and more. While 16.5 Hot Wheels are sold every second and over 8 billion cars have been sold to date, the brand continues to expand its presence in new ways such as NFTs and digital gaming, with success across mobile, console and PC platforms.page5image15139584

Hot Wheels Collection guitars will be available for purchase at limited dealers. For more information visit www.fendercustomshop.com.

RECENT ARTICLES

Countdown to Hong Kong International Licensing Show

The Harlem Globetrotters signs with IMG

Paw Prints Publishing signs Fraggle Rock deal

Pip and Posy come to life at Bandai Namco Cross Store

Moonbug launches Blippi & Friends MENA channel

Loud Luxury confirmed for Licensing Expo Closing Night Party

Thomas & Friends Autistic friendly clothing launches at Tesco

BBC Earth and Zynga announce new Words With Friends game

DreamWorks and Nutriburst partner on Trolls kids’ vitamins

A dog’s dinner? Home Chef partners with Bluey