Dave Kindig, the creative mind behind Kindig-It Design, continues to redefine the boundaries of custom car building, most recently with his remarkable custom convertible projects. Known for his sharp eye and boundless creativity, Kindig's designs are a blend of timeless aesthetics and cutting-edge technology, earning him a respected place in the automotive world.
Source: Facebook
One of his standout recent builds is the 1953 Corvette ‘TwelveAir’, which made waves when it won the prestigious Ridler Award at the 2024 Detroit Autorama. Kindig and his team created this convertible from the ground up, foregoing the use of any original parts from the vintage model. Instead, they relied on state-of-the-art design methods, including CAD modeling and 3D printing, to bring this project to life. This approach not only allowed them to maintain creative freedom but also ensured the precision needed to fabricate each custom piece by hand.
The TwelveAir represents a perfect marriage of form and function. Every inch of the car was meticulously crafted to evoke the classic Corvette design while pushing boundaries in terms of performance and innovation. For example, the car's V-12 LS-based engine produces a whopping 650 horsepower, while its lightweight aluminum body ensures it remains nimble on the road. The suspension system, inspired by precision motorsport designs like those seen in Formula 1, keeps the car's stance low and aggressive without compromising on performance.
The creation of the TwelveAir wasn’t just about showcasing the technical prowess of Kindig and his team; it was about storytelling through design. Kindig is known for his hands-on approach, spending hours sketching ideas on paper before they ever hit the CNC machines or CAD software. This meticulous attention to detail is part of what sets Kindig’s builds apart from others. He doesn’t just aim to recreate classic cars but rather reimagines them for modern driving enthusiasts.
Source: Youtube
Beyond the TwelveAir, Kindig continues to work on high-profile projects, including unique convertibles that showcase his love for blending nostalgia with innovation. He often draws inspiration from iconic designs of the past, but with a commitment to pushing the envelope. His CF1 Corvette series, for instance, includes electric-powered versions of the classic Corvette design, showing his willingness to embrace new technology while paying homage to automotive history.
At the heart of Kindig-It Design’s success is a talented and close-knit team, many of whom have been with him for years. Their collective expertise spans from metal fabrication to paintwork, and they are renowned for their ability to deliver immaculate finishes. Unlike many other custom shops, Kindig-It Design doesn’t cut corners—each car is designed to be as functional as it is beautiful. This dedication is why they’re often described as building "show drivers," cars that aren’t just for display but can handle the road as well.
Kindig’s approach to custom building is as much about creativity as it is about craftsmanship. He is involved in every aspect of the design process, which is made possible thanks to the support of his wife Charity, who handles the business side of things. This partnership allows Dave to focus entirely on his creative vision, whether it’s translating a client’s dream into reality or developing his own groundbreaking ideas.
The success of Kindig-It Design, highlighted by the attention garnered from shows like Bitchin’ Rides, is a testament to the quality and passion behind every build. Each project, especially the high-profile custom convertibles, is a labor of love, a reflection of decades of experience, and an ode to automotive art. From sketch to street, Dave Kindig continues to bring his bold visions to life, ensuring that each creation is as unique as the next and pushing the custom car world to new heights.
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