Maelstrom

Description
"Speed, Power, and Attitude define the realm of Hot Wheels. One of the finest examples of these characteristics can be seen in the Maelstrom. Twin V-8 engines power the many curves of this wild ride with large scoops to pull in power giving air. Side vents and twin rear pipes quickly remove the exhaust from the firing of those 24 cylinders. The single seat cockpit allows for just one lucky soul to take the ride of their life at a time. Wouldn't you like to wait in that line?" I know I sure would!

The origins of the Maelstrom started in 2001 when Hot Wheels Director Of Design Nathan Proch, gave Fraser Campbell a design brief to create the ultimate vehicle for the European Hot Wheels market. Hailing from the United Kingdom himself, this was Fraser's first vehicle attempt for the Hot Wheels basic line. His first idea was to have the engines up front and the cockpit over the rear wheels. There was a concern however that it beared too much resemblance to the existing Twin Mill and Twin Mill II castings, so a change was needed. Back at the drawing board and wanting to keep the elements of "big engines, big power, and big attitude", Fraser continued to toss the layout of his design around. Eventually, his final forward cockpit and mid-engined design made it into production as 2001 First Edition car called the Maelstrom. The Maelstrom has been said by some to resemble the Hairy Hauler or the Vulture. It also tends to bear some similarities to the Vector M12.

This car made its first appearance in the videogame Hot Wheels: Bash Arena (PC) (2002). It makes a reappearance in the following videogames: Hot Wheels: Velocity X (PC, GBA, PS2, GC) (2002) and Hot Wheels: World Race (PC, GBA, PS2, PC) (2003).

Versions
The Maelstrom has been released in the following 1/64 scale versions:

"Atomix" Versions
In 2002, the Maelstrom was released in the Atomix series.

"Speed Demons" Versions
In 2003, the Maelstrom was released in the Speed Demons series. It features a pull back motor inside.