
DeLorean Accelerates Into The Future: NFTs Secure New Alpha5 EV Purchases
Jun 1
3 min read
DeLorean Motor Company is making headlines with its innovative approach to car reservations, leveraging Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) to guarantee purchases of its new Alpha5 electric vehicle. This unique system allows prospective buyers to secure a build slot for the highly anticipated EV, blending automotive enthusiasm with cutting-edge blockchain technology.
DeLorean Drives Into The Future With NFT Reservations
DeLorean Motor Company, known for its iconic DMC-12, is re-entering the automotive market with the all-electric Alpha5. To manage reservations for this limited-production vehicle, DeLorean has implemented an NFT-based system. This means that instead of a traditional waiting list, customers purchase a "Build Slot NFT" to secure their place in the production queue. The company plans to produce 4,000 Alpha5 EVs, with the initial 1,272 build slots tied to these NFTs.
How The NFT Reservation System Works
Securing an Alpha5 through the NFT system involves several steps:
Alpha Club Membership: Prospective buyers must first join the Alpha Club, which costs a one-time fee of $88.
Digital Wallet Setup: A digital "Slush Wallet" is required, which operates on the Sui blockchain.
NFT Purchase: Build Slot NFTs can be purchased for $2,500 each through DeLorean's online marketplace. These NFTs can be bought using DMC or USDC cryptocurrencies.
Build Slot Allocation: Each NFT corresponds to a specific build slot number. Lower numbers receive priority in the production process.
Resale Option: The NFTs can be resold on DeLorean's platform, offering flexibility to buyers who may change their minds.
This system not only guarantees a purchase but also creates a secondary market for build slots, with some NFTs reportedly trading for around $10,000.
Key Takeaways
DeLorean is using NFTs to manage reservations for its new Alpha5 electric vehicle.
Purchasing a "Build Slot NFT" guarantees a place in the production queue.
The system involves an Alpha Club membership, a Sui blockchain-compatible digital wallet, and the purchase of NFTs for $2,500.
NFTs can be resold on DeLorean's marketplace, creating a secondary market for build slots.
The Alpha5 is an all-electric vehicle with an estimated 0-60 mph time of 2.99 seconds and a projected 300-mile range.
The Alpha5: A Glimpse Into The Future
While the reservation system is innovative, details about the Alpha5 itself are still emerging. The vehicle is expected to be a low-volume, exclusive car, with production estimates ranging from 1,300 to 10,000 units annually. The Alpha5 is projected to achieve 60 mph in just 2.99 seconds, boast a 300-mile driving range, and feature a 100 kWh battery pack. Final pricing and specifications are yet to be confirmed, but early estimates suggest an MSRP around $125,000. The car's design has been described as a blend of Tesla and Porsche aesthetics, featuring distinctive gullwing doors, a nod to its iconic predecessor.
Endorsements And Technology
DeLorean Labs, the crypto arm of the company, has even enlisted the support of actor Sir Patrick Stewart to promote the new vehicle and its unique reservation system. The company's decision to use the Sui blockchain for its NFTs was driven by the platform's technical capabilities, which were deemed conducive to DeLorean's goals. This move signifies a bold step for DeLorean, embracing blockchain technology not just as a marketing gimmick, but as a core component of its sales and distribution strategy.
Sources
DeLorean Sells NFT's to Guarantee You One of Their New Cars, Rock 95.
What’s This Strange Step DeLorean Wants Buyers To Take?, Carscoops.
Star Trek actor Sir Patrick Stewart endorses DeLorean Labs’ crypto reboot, Blockworks.