In a remarkable triumph, an Australian V12 LS engine has clinched the prestigious 2024 Ridler Award, propelling a Dave Kindig-designed 1953 Corvette, known as Twelve Air, to victory. The awe-inspiring vehicle, a testament to craftsmanship, was meticulously handcrafted from scratch over a five-year span for owners Dave and Tracy Maxwell. Notably, every component of Twelve Air, inspired by the 1953 GM Motorama Corvair concept car, was custom-made, departing from traditional GM parts.
The veil of secrecy shrouding the Ridler Award project demanded utmost confidentiality, with any premature disclosure risking disqualification. The revelation of the Australian-sourced V12 LS engine, a surprise unveiled at the Detroit Autorama, added an unexpected twist to the narrative. Initially, Dave Kindig sought a V12 LS engine-builder package from Race Cast Engineering, only to be offered a bespoke engine tailored for Twelve Air, underscoring the Corish brothers’ dedication to excellence.
The Corish brothers, recognized for their innovative approach to car building, have a rich history of crafting unique vehicles, including a V12-powered Kia Pregio van and a Mazda 929 wagon that claimed victory at Street Machine Summernats 34. Their collaboration with Dave Kindig on Twelve Air exemplifies the fusion of Australian ingenuity and global recognition in the automotive industry.
Diving into the technical intricacies of the V12 LS engine, a collaborative effort involving various Australian manufacturers, sheds light on the meticulous craftsmanship behind this powerhouse. From LS7-based heads by Higgins to custom camshafts tailored to individual power specifications by Clive Cams, each component plays a crucial role in enhancing performance. The engine’s design, featuring a distinctive intake manifold and specialized covers, was meticulously crafted to meet the stringent criteria for the Ridler Award.
Noteworthy is the engine’s unique sound profile, achieved through innovative engineering techniques, reflecting a blend of vintage F1 and modern performance characteristics. The engine’s output, calibrated to around 650hp for Twelve Air, showcases the versatility and adaptability of Australian engineering prowess on a global stage. The seamless integration of cutting-edge technology and traditional craftsmanship underscores the transformative impact of the Australian V12 LS engine in the world of custom car design.
The successful completion of Twelve Air and its subsequent triumph at the Detroit Autorama underscore the collaborative spirit and unwavering dedication of all involved in this groundbreaking project. With the Australian V12 LS engine at its core, Twelve Air stands as a testament to innovation, creativity, and the enduring legacy of Australian craftsmanship in the automotive realm. The fusion of artistry and engineering excellence embodied in this award-winning creation sets a new standard for custom car design, solidifying Australia’s position as a global hub for automotive innovation and ingenuity.
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