The transforming BMW was created by twelve engineers and four technicians. Imagine this Transformer roaming down your street, like a dream come true! (Photo from Letrons)
Ever since the 1980s were invaded by these robots in disguise, people have been fascinated with Transformers. This past August the first animated Transformers Movie turned 30 years old while the Michael Bay films continue to create a new generation of fans. But along with making lifelong followers, the franchise also inspires people to create their own larger than life robots. From costumes to toys, people use the Transformers to make their own inventions. Recently, Letvision, a Turkish company, made their own real life Transformer.
This Transformer is unlike anything you've ever seen. Starting out as a simple red car, it slowly rises up and turns into the ultimate robot. The effect is stunning and looks like something out of the popular movie franchise. The team who built the robot consisted of twelve engineers and four technicians. The shape-shifting bot is known as Antimon and stands tall looking menacing like the actual autobots. And yes, the BMW Antimon actually drives.
The team is currently working on future models and even hope to make these bots available for purchase. So far no price has been disclosed, but you have to imagine it's going to cost a lot of money. Still, it's an impressive feat and will take the breath away of any Transformer fans.
There are other people out there trying to make a real life Transformer a reality. In 2012, Kenji Ishisa at JS Robotics in Japan created the ultimate shape-shifting toy. Kenji created a small remote car that actually drives around. With a push of a button, the car then pushes itself off the ground, stands up, and turns into a walkable Transformer. He can even wave around his arms and pump his fist in the air. The robot runs on 22 servo motors.
Though there have been few updates, it seems Kenji is still working on this project. In 2014, he posted a video on his Youtube channel showing an updated and more detailed version of the shape-shifting car. Decked out in blue paint, this bot has a more detailed face and intricate design. He also has eyes that light up and moveable fingers. He also moves a little smoother and easier than the previous iteration. Judging from the video, the bot is controlled via a computer.
With projects like these it's clear people are still fascinated with Transformers. Similar to Pokemon, people constantly look for ways to bring their favorite robots into the real world. One thing's for sure, these results look better than the CGI versions in the movies.
Have a story tip? Message me at: