Students' Automotive Designs Honored in Miami

MIAMI BEACH, Fla., Nov. 7, 2003 -- Automotive executives, members of the regional press, friends and families were on hand last night to recognize the winning designs in the Dream Rides -- Student Concept Car Design Competition. Presented by the South Florida International Auto Show, Miami's Community Newspapers, and the South East Automotive Media Organization (SEAMO), the Dream Rides event was organized to showcase the work of the auto industry's future designers.

More than 70 entries were submitted from high schools throughout the Miami-Dade region. Industry designers and executives that participated in judging the entries were impressed by the presentation skills and professionalism shown by many of the entries. In addition to an elegant crystal trophy, a total of $8,500 in scholarship money will be shared among the top eight designers.

The industry's top manufacturers, including General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, and Volvo, sponsored the scholarship fund and the award reception.

One of Miami's magnet schools, Design & Architecture Senior High (DASH), took home six of the top eight awards. Another magnet school, the New World School of the Arts, was also represented among the winners. "These entries are certainly a testament to the value of highly focused educational programs directed by the best educators," said Ron Beasley, South Florida Director of SEAMO.

Taking first place in the competition was the Crossover Concept Car, a variable wheelbase car designed by Ren Stone from DASH. Second place went to the Intel, an accessible urban commuter vehicle designed by Orhan Cileli of DASH. In third place, the Ikarus, a multi-function accessible vehicle, was designed by Hector Rodriguez, also of DASH.

Five honorable mentions were also awarded, with three going to Victor Fernandez (Vinci), Kenneth Roberts (Waveio), and Marcus Collins (Envia), all from DASH. Other honorable mentions went to Leonardo Castaneda (Argon) from the New World School of the Arts, and to Yoelmir Santana (DLK Project), of Hialeah-Miami Lakes High School.

"Based on the response of the entrants, educators and sponsors, the Dream Rides program will certainly be continued and expanded at upcoming auto shows throughout the Southeast region," said Tom Kelley, Executive Director of SEAMO.

For more information, contact SEAMO at (704) 599-0570, or visit www.southeastautomedia.org on the web.