Local Motors and Ben Kennedy, driver of the No. 11 Local Motors Toyota Tundra, together revealed the world’s first co-created NASCAR helmet this week. Designed, created, and brought to life online in less than four weeks, the Ben Kennedy Helmet Challenge proves that co-creation is changing the way NASCAR connects with its fans. Kennedy debuted the helmet during NASCAR Camping World Truck Series practice on May 14, and the Red Horse Racing driver will wear the helmet when he competes in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series event in Concord, NC on May 15.
“The first race was born when the second car was made,” said John B. Rogers, CEO and Co-founder of Local Motors. “Racing has always been about the fans but in the last year it’s been more possible than ever for fans to have a hand in more than cheering. The Ben Kennedy Helmet Design Challenge is our first chance to bring the creative power of our community into the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, and it’s only the beginning.”
The Ben Kennedy Helmet Design Challenge kicked off on April 10, inviting NASCAR fans to submit helmet design ideas. After two weeks, the Local Motors community voted on their favorites, narrowing the entries down to five. A judging panel, including Kennedy, reviewed the final five and chose a winner. The winning design was BKR_Helmet_cool design by Serdo Miletec of Croatia. Andre Costa from Portugal stands second on the podium with his Kennedy Eleven design, and Vasilatos Ianis’ HELLcame in third place.
“This might be the coolest helmet I’ve ever seen. When fans had the opportunity to submit designs, I knew we would see some creative entries, but the way each one captured my personality was far more than I expected. It was tough to choose one. I’m just incredibly impressed with the entire community,” said Ben Kennedy, grandson of Bill France Sr., founder of NASCAR. “I wouldn’t be surprised if eventually we hold a challenge to design my truck.”
Tune into FOX Sports 1 tomorrow at 8:30 p.m. ET to watch the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series in action at Charlotte Motor Speedway, and the debut of the world’s first co-created helmet on the driver of the No. 11 Local Motors Toyota Tundra.
