On last October 29th, Local Motors has announced the results of its sixth car design competition called 'Hawaii Motors'.  A record 59 designs were submitted to this challenge to design a vehicle for Hawaii using the inspiration of ancient Hawaiian Koa Warriors. 

Part of the challenge was also to choose a powertrain and fuel source that is supported and efficient for Hawaii.  The Local Motors community voted and chose three distinct winners.

The overall winner was an F1-style surf vehicle, the “iBite” by Iman Maghsoudi of Iran.

The Huaka by Pierre Gimbergues of France placed 2nd, representing the most applauded SUV of the group.  3rd place goes to Raphael Laurent of Switzerland, who designed “Unoh, a jeep-styled vehicle with unique form. 

"Each of these designs has unique Hawaiian DNA, designed specifically for the car enthusiasts in Hawaii."

iBite Concept

Iman Maghsoudi (Iran) took first place and earned $1,500 with his powerful F1-inspired iBite design.  His winning design incorporated features of both the Hawaiian Islands and the Koa Warriors.

The most apparent inspiration from Hawaii’s landscape is the rear subframe, reminiscent of a Humpback whale tail.  The Hawaiian lifestyle is celebrated with two surfboard style doors. 

"Like the ancient Koa warriors, this F1 style design is meant to be minimalistic, functional, and powerful." The powertrain features an efficient hybrid engine.

An interview with Iman Maghsoudi is available here.

(Source: Local Motors)