February 18, 2008 Hot Wheels® has unveiled the most expensive car in its 40 year history - a unique diamond encrusted 1:64-scale car cast in 18-carat white gold designed by celebrity jeweler Jason Arasheben of Beverly Hills. The car was made to commemorate the production of the 4 billionth Hot Wheels® vehicle and coincides with the upcoming release of the Designer's Challenge™ Die-Cast Car Line and other events marking the company's 40th anniversary celebrations.
The vehicle was unveiled by multi-platinum recording artist and car enthusiast, Nick Lachey, at the American International Toy Fair(R) in New York. Later this year, the one-off vehicle will be auctioned off to benefit Lachey’s charity of choice, Big Brothers Big Sisters.
The diamonds on the custom-made jeweled car, valued at $140,000, total more than 2,700 and weigh nearly 23 carats in total weight. The vehicle is detailed with micro pave-set brilliant blue diamonds and under the functional hood, the engine showcases additional micro pave-set white and black diamonds. The Hot Wheels® flame logo found on the underbelly of the car is lined with white and black diamonds while the tail lights consist of red rubies and black diamonds and red enamel create the “red line” tires. The custom-made case that houses the jewel-encrusted vehicle also holds 40 individual white diamonds, signifying the 40th anniversary.
“Collaborating with Mattel on the jeweled Hot Wheels car was a dream project for me,” said Jason Arasheben, president & CEO of Jason of Beverly Hills. “The car is truly spectacular and will be a brilliant addition to anyone’s collection.”
