How did LEGO create unique life-size F1 cars for the Miami Grand Prix?

At the Miami Grand Prix, Lego showed off 10 full-size F1 cars built in each team's colors and liveries. The one-off LEGO cars have been created by 26 designers in Lego's Klasno factory that is located in the Czech Republic.

Ahead of last weekend's Miami Grand Prix, the twenty Formula 1 drivers had the chance to test their skills in fully drivable and team bespoke LEGO big build cars that replaced the usual drivers parade truck. Each team had its own custom car in their own colours and liveries and drove the 5.4km track in front of all the fans ahead of the race.

The incredible vehicles are based on the LEGO F1 Speed Champions range unveiled late last year and were designed to celebrate Formula 1 and the LEGO Group’s ongoing, multi-year partnership.

The cars were created by a skilled team of 26 designers, engineers and LEGO builders, over 22,000 hours, in the LEGO Group’s Kladno factory, located in the Czech Republic.

At a near 1:1 in scale with Formula 1 cars, each big build is made of nearly 400,000 LEGO bricks, weighing 1,000kg and capable of reaching speeds of 20 km/h, all while capturing the intricate and unique details of a Formula 1 car, including everything from sponsor logos to authentic Pirelli tyres.

Commenting on the unique experience, Chief Commercial Officer at Formula 1 Emily Prazer noted: “As a sport synonymous with innovation and pushing boundaries, it was amazing to see another first for our sport as the big builds made their way around the track in the hands of the best drivers in the world.

"Our partnership with the LEGO Group enables us to inject a lot of fun into the Grand Prix experience and engage new audiences, and we can’t wait to see what else we can dream up together.”

Reflecting on the project, Julia Goldin, who serves as the Chief Product & Marketing Officer of the LEGO Group, said: "At the LEGO Group, we are constantly striving to push the boundaries of what is possible. This latest challenge is a true testament to that, marking an extraordinary collaboration between the LEGO Group, Formula 1 and its 10 teams.

"We know that drivable big builds have an unparalleled ability to evoke excitement amongst fans and are delighted to see the reaction unveiling 10 at the same time has brought. We hope these unique creations reinforce that with imagination and a LEGO brick in-hand; creativity has limitless possibilities.”