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F1 show cars are a crucial part of any F1 launch season – and Jon Noble spoke to the ex-F1 engineer at the heart of the company who produces them
Max Verstappen resurrected the ‘Inspector Max’ social media meme by closely examining the Red Bull car unveiled at his team’s Formula 1 season launch last month, expressing his intrigue about the steering wheel and overall design.
Verstappen’s curiosity led him to question the origin of the steering wheel, speculating if it was a simulation wheel and acknowledging the need to inquire about its production.
The authentic ‘Gen 26’ F1 show cars, including the Red Bull model, are not manufactured by the team but are produced by British company Memento Exclusives, known for their ultra-realistic replicas.
These show cars mirror the real F1 cars in precision and materials, attracting teams to utilize them for official events such as livery launches.
Memento’s show car division has evolved into a significant component of its business, with plans to produce 180 show cars this year, showcasing a blend of manufacturing and memorabilia marking a significant growth for the company.
Barry Gough, Memento’s CEO, a former F1 mechanic, now oversees a large-scale manufacturing operation with a staff of 120 employees and an expected turnover of £75 million in the upcoming financial year, showcasing the company’s substantial impact on the F1 industry and their commitment to quality standards.
