Kevin Morgan Concept Car

[Dave80USATA]

GM Performance Parts "Heritage Edition"

This "Heritage Edition" 1 of 1 Developed in the skunkworks of GM's Performance Parts Division, was the last serious effort by workers in the division to convince GM to keep the dream alive. (circa 2003.)
It eventually came to light, that GM had no further plans for the Trans Am, after 2002, as it was taking Pontiac in a different direction at the time.
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This collection of information will help to provide insight, and depth to the runup to the reveal of the "Pheonix Edition" concept, that many of us wish GM had gone on to produce.

The following grassroots effort was effectly started through a little dreaming on Kevin's part, with his graphics experience, was generating some great renditions, which were stirring the hardcore fans into a frenzy! It was all in an effort to gather enough attention, so that GM would listen to its loyal PONTIAC customer base!

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" I have started a petition for everyone to sign to let GM know how badly we want our Trans Am Back. Please help me by signing this petition. I have had such an overwhelming response to my Concept Trans Am drawings that I just have to send them to GM. Please sign the petition & tell GM the same things you have been telling me all along.
Sign the petition by clicking here."

Thank You!

Kevin Morgan -Graphic Designer
Canton, PA
www.kevinmorgandesigns.com/home.html
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While doing a general Ebay search, I found his products, and purchased a t-shirt, and 2 small posters, to support his cause to "BRING IT BACK"


This was our first point of contact:
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From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 12/13/2007 5:35:49 AM
To: *dnicc****@******
Subject: Trans Am Ebay purchase


Hello,
This is Kevin Morgan, You purchased a poster & shirt from me on ebay. I was just curious what shirt size you would like.

Thanks!
Kevin Morgan
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A simple enough start to a dream I suppose! (And yes I left positive feedback!)
*****************************************************
From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 12/14/2007 6:39:24 AM
To: David Nicc****
Subject: Re: Trans Am Ebay purchase


David,
Thank you for your purchase and your kind words. I really appreciate it. I dont know if all my hard work will pay off or not, but, for now, im going to keep screaming until GM either hears me, or puts a lawsuit against me. I am in the works of building my website. I have alot of my artwork from gradeschool through college along with a portfolio of signs, airbrushing and even photography. I cannot wait to get it finished!!
I just cant believe how far my name is out there coming from such a small town. Seems like noone can get anywhere from this town...one redlight town let me tell ya. I am so excited about all of this. I just hope something AMAZING comes out of it. Like, GM builds the car!!!!!! I entered a video on heavy.com to try to win one of the year one built "burt reynolds edition trans am." and i used my concept car and all my hard work promoting it as the reason i deserve to win. But, i doubt ill win. BUT it gets my name out even further!!
Thanks again, its people like you that really makes this journey worth while and keeps me going!!

Thanks
Kevin Morgan - Graphic Designer
www.kevinmorgandesigns.com
----- Original Message -----
From: David Nicc****
To: Kevin Morgan
Sent: Thursday, December 13, 2007 3:58 PM
Subject: Re: Trans Am Ebay purchase


Hi Kevin:

First let me say your website is awesome!

I may purchase other items from you as well.

I have also forwarded your site to others once I found it!

I am pleased with your effort to "Bring It Back"!!

I did sign the petition. Its exciting how much momentum you've gained with your concept!

And I truly hope "we" collectively manage to get GM's attention to actually do just that.

It would be an injustice to ignore a loyal base of customers.


Anyway, about the shirt.

An XL would be just fine.

I will frame the autographed poster as well!!

Success!!

David Nicc****

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From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 12/17/2007 5:49:12 AM
To: David Nicc****
Subject: Re: TRANS AMS/TRANS AMS //Re: Trans Am Ebay purchase


My car is an 81 T-top car. It was an original Gold Turbo T/A. I purchased it with the current paint. It has some pretty shoddy bodywork on it, but, i only paid $1000 for the car. It had a 69 400 engine in it, now it has a 403 with 455 heads. I have a 77 nose, shaker scoop & hood ready for paint. Im going to try to get all that done over the winter. I really like the 77 nose alot better, but, i like the 79-81 nose ALOT better then i used to thats for sure. Ive attached a couple pictures of it....

Thanks for the pictures. Keep me posted with your projects!! I love T/As so keep em coming!

Well, the Burt Builds A Bandit contest is over and i didnt win...im kinda bummed, but i tried my best!! here is a link if you'd like to see it on heavy.com www.heavy.com/video/32437 I was using the concept Trans Am that i designed as my "reason i deserve to win" but, it didn pan out. You can see the winner on their main page.

Anyways...keep in touch!!

Kevin
----- Original Message -----
From: David Nicc****
To: Kevin Morgan
Sent: Friday, December 14, 2007 5:10 PM
Subject: TRANS AMS/TRANS AMS //Re: Trans Am Ebay purchase



KEV:

Was your car Blue? A '79? 403?

The first set pictured here is my "new" car purchased recently, online from Baden, Pennsylvania.

It is near mint, and once the shop is done, it will be mint. (w/ only 73K orig. Miles)

These are pictures taken by the folks in Baden, Pennsylvania, from where the car originated.

She was second owner, since early '84.


I'm thrilled it made the journey here to Ca*****, Canada intact.

I'm a stubborn nut for originality, but have opted to upgrade the stereo and security features.

When complete, my '80 will have a (howling) perimeter, GPS tag / 2 way pager security with glow lites,

A 5G ALPINE DVD/NAV KICKER sound system. w/ sat. radio.

Placement of the DVD will be the same as in the "Burt" car.

The car will maintain its factory stance, and from all outside appearances, a "survivor" sleeper "original". (Not resto)


Below that, is my first love, long lost. I had my '79 as a kid from '80.5 through '84. A basic car w/403, headers, turbo mufflers.

At the time it contained a "blistering", not "clean" by todays standards, sound system, but loud.

Why I parted with it, I still don't know.,,,,, but I'm happy with my new one.



P.S. I'll scream with ya!

[WarbirdTA]

By far, the best one I like for the fourthgen series.
I always like the second gen look.
No matter what generation Firebird they play with.

George

[Dave80USATA]

Thanks George!

I am blending several emails per post so you don't see my tags every time.

Here's more:

***************************************************************************

From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 1/22/2008 6:12:37 AM
To: David Nicc****
Subject: Re: BRAINSTORMING SESSION


David,
My concept car is going to be getting some more attention...High Performance Pontiac Magazine called my house and wants to run another one of my concept drawings!!! I am floored!!! Very excited! I have a serious fire lit under me. I know what is going to happen in 2009 after the Camaro actually comes out. Someone is going to build my concept car out of the Camaro using one of my designs....and there will be NOTHING I can do about it. I WANT TO BE THAT PERSON that does it first. The Kevin Morgan Edition Trans Am. 1 of 1. I have got to put in a plan to achieve this goal. It is a huge undertaking, but, I have got to try. I like all of your ideas...Everytime I try to contact someone, I never hear back. I might try to call Chip Foose or Metal Crafters in CA about it. Imagine being able to pull it off!!! The car could be used in your movie!!! I know there are other T/A concepts floating around, but, people really seem to like the ones I have done, I think ONE of them would make a great Concept Car and could really take me places IF I can somehow pull it off. I am open for more suggestions on how to make this dream a reality...
Thanks for all your time!

Kevin Morgan
www.kevinmorgandesigns.com


----- Original Message -----
From: David Nicc****
To: Kevin Morgan
Sent: Tuesday, December 18, 2007 5:06 AM
Subject: BRAINSTORMING SESSION


Hello Kevin:

David here.

I spent part of this evening trying to be of some help to you.

I do not want to be guilty of overstepping my bounds, so please do let me know if suggestions are welcome,

Or if you would prefer to go forward alone.


I would be curious about what Chip Foose knows about bringing concepts to life.

Possibly he could provide counsel, direction, or other suggestions, as where you might go next.

Food for thought includes some of his designs, separate from manufacturers, which have come to reality.

Other thoughts include, who he might know, within the industry, GM specific, who would potentially work with you.

This may or may not co-incide with the current developers of the new Camaro.

chevynation.com/ under Chevy Clubhouse, Camaro Connection.

Cheryl Pilcher and Micah Jones. As listed contributors.


Other thoughts include, they might already "own" the concept, whether others follow through independent of them or not,

Irrespective of their divulging future plans or not. (Not trying to depress you here.)

Certainly the "trademark" names would be theirs, and a certain amount of the accepted design of the Chevrolet product would be theirs as well.

All of this to say, IT IS still worth checking into.

They "should" welcome submissions from a loyal customer base which have been long-time fans of their product base, as well as owners of past product.

Companies should respect creative submissions from third parties, with the intent of considering such renderings for future product development.

No, I am not a lawyer.

If this path does not pan out, there are other ways of course.

Hot Wheels designers came up with the "Twin Mill" and "Deora II" miniature car designs, which were then brought to life in "Rides" w/ Chip Foose at

5 Axis Design.

Of course, Hollywood has created in-numerable concepts separate from production cars. If one were to go that way, it would make a great movie, but the car would not likely

Go the route of production.

I want to see the car come to life as much as you do, or as much as any other fan would want.

There are no easy answers as to which path to follow either...

The reason I wish to sound these thoughts out with you, is this:


In 2003 I partially fleshed out a movie concept, of the SM & T Bandit "4" that took certain liberties of logical progression form then to now.

Although rough in form, I became so enraptured with where it was going, I could not even sleep at night!!

If I were to reveal details, at this point, it would be counter-productive, as we all know, intellectual property, is hard to prove after its "out there".

All great pictures started with an idea, and though refinement, and development, became, in certain cases, "American Culture".

Your concept car would fit perfectly into what I had in mind.

If you were interested in pursuing such a joint-venture, post-development, the potential windfall, could equal or better other recent movie releases.


On a different note, I am hopeful that one day I could attend a "Bandit Run."

Perhaps future runs could consider partially blending activities with the "General Lee" crowd.

A memorable event once, (I was Young at the time) was a soccer game, using cars as players.

A beater General Lee against a beater Bandit playing oversized soccer ball on a field, using police cars as goal posts, would likely be a crowd pleaser.



Anyway, its late.

Let me know if you like any of these ideas.

David.

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From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 1/23/2008 12:17:59 PM
To: David Nicc****
Subject: Re: MAKING IT HAPPEN FOR REAL


I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I WANT TO DO SOMETHING BIG. I WANT TO MAKE THIS HAPPEN. I am not going to let being from a small town stop me. THANK YOU so much for all of your help!!!


----- Original Message -----
From: David Nicc****
To: Kevin Morgan
Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2008 2:12 PM
Subject: MAKING IT HAPPEN FOR REAL


OK Kevin:

This could be one of my best shots.

The connections you have made from the Trans Am Nationals and meeting folks at Year One might be critical here.

The guy who owns Year One built several "Burt" cars, and with a little convincing, could probably help you build some for you!



A PLAN: START BY FOCUSING ON BUILDING 3 CARS, ONE FOR YOU, ONE FOR THE FANS AS A GIVEAWAY PRIZE, AND ONE FOR POSTERITY (SEMA,CAR SHOW CIRCUIT, OR CAR MUSEUM).

A DIRECTION: APPROACH THE SAME FOLKS WHO BUILT THE "BURT" CARS, AS THEY ARE ALREADY IN THE BUSINESS OF AFTERMARKET CONVERSIONS/REBUILDS

PARTNERS: FANS, CLUBS, ASSOCIATIONS, AFFILIATIONS, FINANCIAL BACKERS OF ALL DESCRIPTIONS, MOSTLY WHO WANT TO SEE THIS HAPPEN AS BADLY AS WE DO.



RECIPE:

1, 2 , OR 3 NEW CAMAROS FROM DEALERSHIP UPON RELEASE

ADD:

LOTS OF MONEY FROM VARIOUS SOURCES COLLECTED WHO WANT TO HELP


MIX:

TALENTS AND ABILITIES OF CERTAIN TALENTED INDIVIDUALS WHO CAN CONVERT A FACTORY CAMARO, INTO THE COOLEST FIREBIRD ON THE PLANET... YOU PICK THEM.


SERVE:

AT THE TRANS AM NATIONALS, THROUGH THE MEDIA PERHAPS, LIKE HIGH PERFORMANCE PONTIAC AND OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES.

BE PREPARED FOR LOTS OF ATTENTION FOLLOWING THE RELEASE, AS THIS COULD MAKE OR BREAK THE PLANS FOR DETROIT INVOLVEMENT, OR ANY MOVIE. THAT COULD RESULT.




P.S. BE THE GUY WHO REALLY MAKES IT HAPPEN. I CAN PREDICT ONCE YOU GET CO-OPERATION FROM CLUBS AND FANS, THAT THIS COULD REALLY HAPPEN!


DAVE.

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From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 1/23/2008 1:55:59 PM
To: David Nicc****
Subject: Re: MAKING IT HAPPEN FOR REAL


I think I am going to stay away from the "Bandit" word. I am going to lean towards something like....
Kevin Morgan & Year One Bringing Back The Fire with the "40th Anniversary" Trans Am.



----- Original Message -----
From: David Nicc****
To: Kevin Morgan
Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2008 3:47 PM
Subject: Re: MAKING IT HAPPEN FOR REAL


KEV:

You could call it,

"Kevin Morgan, Year One & You, Building New Bandit's!!

Or any variation you like!!

Keep in touch!!

David.

****************************************************

From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 1/23/2008 2:08:24 PM
To: David Nicc****
Subject: Re: MAKING IT HAPPEN FOR REAL


What I am thinking right now is working up a design with 3 T/As to build. THEN write something up like you did for your "recepie" for Year One. Something really professional...put it together in to one package to send them.


----- Original Message -----
From: David Nicc****
To: Kevin Morgan
Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2008 4:02 PM
Subject: Re: MAKING IT HAPPEN FOR REAL


Very Cool!!

The H.P.P. Interview should be an awesome chance to get the word out.

I can help brainstorm further, with you, anytime time permits!!

****************************************************

From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 1/24/2008 5:28:53 AM
To: David Nicc****
Subject: Re: MAKING IT HAPPEN FOR REAL


David,
I will be going down there (i think) in May for the Bandit Run and Year One Experience. I have met Kevin King, and I chat with Mike Ashmore (both from year one) in emails every week. They seem like a very good bunch of guys. And ya know Year One got formed because Len couldnt get parts for his 69 Trans Am!!!!! SO....with my 69 style concept hitting High Performance Pontiac, that COULD help get the ball rolling!! I think that Year One would be the best bet. They have GM licensing so that shouldnt be a problem. I was telling my wife about you and my crazy dreams...she thinks im nuts and im sure she thinks that it will never happen....but, MAN you hear about all these other "little guys" achieving these HUGE goals...how did THEY do it?? persistance? dunno...But...ive got it in my head, I am setting a goal, and Im going to see where it can take me. If I don't do it, you bet ya someone else will!!!!!!! I LOVE your raffle idea. And it is something that could be pitched to Year One. for the 3rd T/A concept. I think if we were to be able to pull it off, THEY could help with advertising & marketing. Imagine how many tickets i could sell at the Trans Am Nationals!! ALL trans am nuts there!

Thanks for the help....Another step closer!

Kevin
----- Original Message -----
From: David Nicc****
To: Kevin Morgan
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2008 1:53 AM
Subject: Re: MAKING IT HAPPEN FOR REAL


Kevin:


I would try and do a virtual presentation by telephone or Internet link, if the distance to meet is too great.

In order to be convincing enough to get help, I think you need to tug at his heart strings a little bit..... Being... Year One president's(Len Athanasiades).

I was reading directly from the Year One page about Len and the creation of his company. He should understand passion when he sees it.

Submitting a proposal is a great idea. Making it a professional looking one is even better.

I would keep after them..., even making the trip at some point, to solidify the deal.


Funding would undoubtedly come up as a potential issue.


One idea I had tonight, (only a thought, as there are so many ways to go about this): for fundraising is raffle style.

By selling tickets.

$100.00 each ...or 3 for $250.00

For every 4 purchasers who buy a 3 Pak, that's $1000.00.

40-- 3 Pak sales = $10,000.00

400 -- 3pak sales = $100,000.00

4000 -- 3 Pak sales = $1,000,000.00 yeah a million!!!

Set a minimum of 2000 tickets sold to cover off the cost of getting the job done, and having 3 cars to show for it.

The balance, if there is one, would go to sources later to be determined: ...like a fund to sell the concept to GM for one.

I don't know the legalities where you are, but if this is not legal, then there have to be alternate forms of fundraising, just as spectacular to pursue.

Let me know if these ideas interest you.

I found the comments at the end of the following page to be of interest.

www.iwaynet.net/~gl&lisk/transam.html


David.

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From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 1/24/2008 6:07:41 AM
To: David Nicc****
Subject: Re: MAKING IT HAPPEN FOR REAL


or maybe we should just get ahold of Jay Leno....

*****************************************************

...and then about a year went by, rather quickly too!

[Dave80USATA]

From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 2/12/2009 11:18:05 AM
To: David Nicc****
Subject: Re: MAKING IT HAPPEN FOR REAL


David,
Remember me? Kevin Morgan....Trans Am Concept Designer. I have been trying to work with a company to turn this into a reality. We have been running numbers on making the aftermarket kits as well as the whole concept Trans Am. Things are tight. Do you know of anyone who may be interested in investing in this project to make it a reality?

Please let me know,
Sincerely,
Kevin Morgan
Canton, PA
www.KevinMorganDesigns.com

*****************************************************

From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 2/20/2009 5:30:12 AM
To: David Nicc****
Subject: Re: MAKING IT HAPPEN FOR REAL


David,
Yes, my email is [e-mail] I wanted to let you know too that I have been trying to work with another company as well...would you be interested in doing a group effort to try to make this happen?? Perhaps if we pull all of our resources together we could truely make this happen. Just a thought.
Let me know your "plan" and how you feel all the legalities & royalties and such would work...just a ballpark idea. I want to keep this fun but keep everything legit.
I have got some ideas too for a more earth friendly T/A id like to share.

Keep in touch,
Kevin Morgan
www.KevinMorganDesigns.com
----- Original Message -----
From: David Nicc****
To: [e-mail]
Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 12:21 AM
Subject: Re: MAKING IT HAPPEN FOR REAL


Hi Kevin!

Always love to hear from you!

I'll put on my thinking cap and get back to you this evening!

A team effort generates more ideas, and I applaude you for reaching back for more input!

You might like some of my ideas, and you might not like others, but in the end, it keeps our friendship going, and the project moving!

Keep up the good work!

David.

P.S. One idea I will be embellishing upon tonight will be electric, like golf carts, except beefier like forklift battery powered. Will say more tonight. Food for thought.

calgarycustomcarts.com/

*****************************************************
From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 2/21/2009 12:54:01 PM
To: David Nicc****
Subject: Re: MAKING IT HAPPEN FOR REAL


David, I like the sounds of everything you have said. And I really hope we can all work together and pull this off. I think you are right. We need to settle on a top 3 or 4 renderings, get the copright done & go from there. I am going to forward your email over to Tod, who I am working with in Florida...hopefully we can all work together on this.
I will be in touch.
Another project i am currently involved with is a smokey and the bandit "Snowman" trailer clone. I will be going to Georgia in March to install the graphic...this should help draw some more attion to my work and concept T/A. I also plan to use this trailer to release the concept T/A to the world for the very first time...IF we can make it happen. www.Smokeyandthebanditmodels.com or www.kevinmorgandesigns.com for more info.

Talk to you soon,
Kevin


----- Original Message -----
From: David Nicc****
To: Kevin Morgan
Sent: Saturday, February 21, 2009 1:23 AM
Subject: Re: MAKING IT HAPPEN FOR REAL




Kevin:

I'm not sure exactly where to start, so let me just begin.

An update on what you've done would be helpful, but here goes anyway.

I'm sure your portfolio of designs is vast by now. It might be an idea to select a sampling for publishing.

A copyright is then established on your style, and protects you somewhat on your intellectual property.

Some of this has already been established through third party, such as magazines and media sources and the like,

But I'm referring to a method of placing your stake in the landscape of architecture and design, in your own namesake.

There is everything from, home based publishing, right through to signing with an established publishing company.

This anchors you in the marketplace, and in my belief, actually makes you marketable. Everything from retail sales, from which profit could be derived,

As well as a "handout/resume" so to speak, to companies who may be interested in your capabilities, (this refers to beyond Trans Am stuff) like car companies,

Aftermarket production companies, conceptual design and architectual design for a variety of products and services.

When you look at all successful companies that exist today, many, most, perhaps all of them, have a number of revenue generating streams of: products, services, and the like

To diversify their offerings.

Perhaps you are on to this already.

With the Trans am Concept, (which excites me to no end), again there are many possibilities.

The current economy has many automakers running for the hills, in fear of collapse.

Consumers are equally fearful of the future, and are not likely to take chances, at times like these.

Even grassroots diehards like us, are taking it day by day right now.

The idea is not, and will never be dead, to those who keep it alive. But timing is important too.

Until venture capital becomes available to: you, the industry, or to entreprenurial groups once again,

This will likely have to be a: fan-based initiative, or aftermarket looking for new product initiative.

One aftemarket, looking for new product company, that I can think of right now, is....

HOTWHEELS and / or JOHNNY LIGHTNING.

Although, manufacturers already utilize them to testmarket their concept designs, they also seem to accept other design offers as well.

For inspiration right now, I'm watching "RIDES" season 1, episode 4, where they are turning a hotwheels Deorea II, into a real car, with help from Chip Foose, and Five Axis Design.

I don't yet have contact info on them just yet, but if you are interested, I can help you get to that step in the near future.

I would say for starters, to approach them with a few of your better designs, not just T/As, but better musclecar offerings, and see if they will bite: on one, two, four, or up to maybe six of them to start.

Anything to get the ball rolling. It might start with 1/64 scale diecast, or with any luck a few 1/24, or 1/18 diecast as well. It could be a new series that they try out, or just add to their regular seasonal offerings to start.

The market always dictates success, and demand is determined based on interest and sales in general. It could be that the T/A could eventually come to fruition through this method.

They definitely have the resources to make it happen anyway.

Rides season 4, Volume 3, episode 1, has a company called "Unique Performance" with help again from "Chip", creating a "Big Brother to Eleanor", the car from "Gone in 60 Seconds" from a modern 2005 Mustang GT 350.

The front and rear "redo" on the prototype are done by clay modeling, following the design sketches closely as provided by Chip. The process is labourous, and involved, in creating molds for the aftermarket kits which will then be produced for the 2005GT.

Clearly, each car type, has a niche following, some making it to design production before others. I would say ride this wave, if you can, until one day the "dream" comes true!

Well, this is my first attempt at sharing.

I have much more, where this came from.

Let's keep the lines of communication flowing, and eventually, the answers will be clearer.

As a start, I hope some of this is helpful!!

David Nicc****

*****************************************************

From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 3/12/2009 6:21:11 AM
To: David Nicc****
Subject: Re: MAKING IT HAPPEN FOR REAL


David,
Do you want the contact email for the company i have been working with on this?
Anything new to report?

Take Care,
Kevin Morgan
www.KevinMorganDesigns.com

*****************************************************

From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 3/25/2009 2:16:12 PM
To: David Nicc****
Subject: Re: MAKING IT HAPPEN FOR REAL


David,
WOW!!!!!!!!! MAN you are full of ideas!!! WHEW!!!! Yes, Getting ready to fly down to Georgia next week for the vinyl wrap on the smokey and the bandit trailer...nervous, but excited!!!!
I am also tied up with doing design work & vinyl wrap on an IMCA race car. That is going in a car show this weekend. BUSY BUSY BUSY!
I like your "Keep Steam Rolling Ahead"!!!! Thank you!!! I am amazed at the name i have made for myself in the Trans Am world, SO, who knows what the future holds!! If things really take off, i am going to have one heck of a story to tell...heck, i already do.
Nice movie idea!!! WOW, you've really thought that thru havent you!?! wow! Keep it up!!!
More comments later...gotta run...Almost done with the 9-5 (actually 7:00 - 4:30), time to start the night shift with the IMCA Race Car!!!

Good night!
Kevin Morgan
www.KevinMorganDesigns.com


----- Original Message -----
From: David Nicc****
To: Kevin Morgan
Sent: Sunday, March 22, 2009 3:36 PM
Subject: Re: MAKING IT HAPPEN FOR REAL


Hi Kevin.

It's March, so you must be on the Smokey and the Bandit "Snowman" trailer clone project! I've been reviewing the progress of the trailer rehabilitation, and it looks terrific! I can see from the 4 videos that it took some real work, to first find it, and then to get it over to a place to fix it up! A major project, for sure!

Any suggestions that I pass along, you may feel free to use, or pass on. When it's all over, and everything turns out, providing it all comes together successfully, you can let me know (from any compensation type, point of view), what any of my input may have been worth to you in achieving these goals.

I can tell from the progress you are making, that "nothing" can stop you! Keep "steamrolling" ahead Kevin. That gives me an idea, maybe a steamroller should go into my movie outline! (More on that in a minute).

*****************************************************************************************************************************************************

On the "Bandit Run" theme, and "BRING IT BACK" logo, there is much that you could do.

One thought, was to incorporate this into a window graphic detail. Much like on pace T/A's, where PONTIAC runs across the winshield, and/or across the rear window as well. Large, Medium, and small, (to go in locations such as drivers door lift handle area, could spread the catch phrase among the fan base, in addition to your (very nice, by the way) bumper sticker logos.

This brings me to another long considered idea. Not to go into competition with "Pheonix Graphix" here, but in a way, adding similar complimentary "step up" graphix to enhance visual effects on our beloved Firebird/TA's.

Some years got more visual effects than others. By studying which years were lacking, and what more could have been done for "those cars" in particular, by matching existing decal treatment, with further enhanced designs suitable for the same car design, would be filling a market, where none exists. I'm not talking about "over the top" imagery, or anything that would lessen a cars worth by adding it on. In some cases, it could be simple lettering integrated into a pinstripe. Or contouring a design with just "a little more". To quote Chip Foose here, "to make it look like it always belonged there in the first place." This would involve comparing OEM samples from a reliable source, such as "Year One" or Pheonix Graphix, and deciding which years, and which models, could use the attention first. This could cover all levels of the spectrum. First to Fourth Gen models. Badging enhancements to base Firebirds, (Yellow Bird, Red Bird, Sky Bird, Macho TA), Formulas, Trans Am models, Pace Car Editions, Turbo Models, Anniversary models, etc. When you study Foose closely, all of the work he does with paint, ADDS VALUE to the car.

Since your wonderful graphic talent could be applied in paint, or decal form, I think paint should wait for your much anticipated TA Concept car when it comes to reality. In the meantime, using your knack for artistic ability,
Using that ability in a way that brings back enthusiasm to the fan base by doing something to/with their cars, that couldhave/should have been done in the beginning. Again, subtle is the key here. For example, badging on a '71 to '74 455 Super Duty was minimal at best. Only when you look at the hood shaker do you get an idea of the uniqueness of the car, and its performance ability. By teaming up with a place like "Pontiac Historical Services", when a car is deemed to be an original survivor, say one of 252 ever produced, (1973 SD-455/ Year One Catalogue, page 12.) a small graphic , matching original colors, could be placed in a TBA location to
Annotate, and authenticate a car's heritage. The Third Gen crowd seems intent on authenticating "who has which car" #_____ of 1550 ever produced, of the 1989 model 20thTTA, for example. A number decal for authenticating these cars would disappear quickly.

To borrow inspiriation from the Mopar crowd, (which you could crossover to, as Year One does as well), much of their early B/E body designs carry badging and signage that could be enhanced, enlarged, or updated visually as well. Everything from a "Roadrunner" bird, to you name it, could be made "just a little bit better!"

Clearly this is a large task. It is probably best to pick your battles to begin with. As (over time) originally equipped vehicles become scarce, or "project" owners wish to "stick out" with a look that is "the same, but different"
Demand for your products could grow. Let me know if you like this idea.

********************************************************************************************************************************************************

Go ahead and design/produce the decal packages for the concept TA, "as you have depicted them" in your art. Like the movie,"Field of Dreams", build it, and they will come. Just having a few of the ensembles available, will inspire the "enthusiasts" out there, to purchase these packages, ant then turn to you, in supporting the production of the aftermarket kits, to bring it all together!

Camaros are being introduced in limited quantities, and thus, anyone purchasing one for conversion, will be a TA fanatic/diehard like us!

A powerful step in the right direction. Incorporate and crossmarket "product" from "YearOne" (such as wheel rims/hood scoops) and other segments into your designs, and they will jump on board, and, as this thing snowballs, thus giving you the "sponsorship" you require, when the "train leaves the station".

While, admittedly nearly impossible to achieve, it would be nice, if we could achieve a "GM authorized" F Clone conversion status, (such as aftermarket convertible conversions have been in the past.)
It might involve contacting someone form Year One, or higher up to "work it out".
This would enable Camaro owners the ability to get warranty servicing, and parts for major components of the vehicle repaired by them, without the humiliation of being turned away, due to a kit with decals being installed.

I look forward to any/or all of this happening one day, for real!

*********************************************************************************************************************************************************

Movie Sketch: written 2003-2004, just a bit dated now.

Starring:

William Shatner as Director of Homleand Security
Burt Reynolds and son as Bo Darval, grown up, obviously older now, retired
Mel Gibson as Bo's ex brother in law, owns truck company
Farrah Fawcett as ex wife, a city mayor/NASA insider
Sally Field as connection to past life, undetermined
Dom Delouise as friend/lawyer
Eddie Murphy as comic relief , cab driver

Working Title: Smokey and the Bandit 4/ Project Pheonix
"The Day of Reckoning"

Premise: National Security is at Stake! (Used to be: The big Lottery Win)

Movies: Spheres of influence:
Hooper/Cannonball Run
Speed/Rides/XXX
Independence Day
Beverly Hills Cop
Enemy of the State
Executive Decision
Smokey and the Bandit 1
Movin' On/BJ and the Bear/Convoy
Sci If shows in general

Slapstick comedy provided by professional comedians, in a sometimes serious setting, while providing an intense mix of action, drama, suspense, and of course, car action!

Story Line Basic:

Bandit Darval is 25-30 years older now, a divorced father, retired from a union job, and not quite as lively anymore
Ex wife accidently scans barcode off "top security" equiptment,(TBA) while helping ex brother in law pick up ""Secure" shipment from Area 51.
Ex wife had ordered the product covertly, but got mixed up in letting out the true secrets of the base, and has gotten the gov't angry now.
This initiates a security leak, that must be stopped, before the much needed equiptment, gets held up from reaching Blast- Off at Cape Kennedy.
Everyone wants a piece of Reynolds Ass now, as he is called upon, once again, to be "blocker" along with his son (as driver), for shipment to the cape! Once again all this action, creates quite the calamity/havoc, while attracting all of the wrong attention
Ex wife runs an underground operation as mayor to supply parts to NASA for this run. Her Brother picks it up at Area 51 to replace a broken one, destroyed during unusual testing at the remote facility.
The "moonshine" product is yet to be determined, but is vital to humanity that it makes it onto an interstellar probe in time for blastoff on the Deep Space Probe.
Every agency is after them now, as they deliver this part to the Rocket on the Launch pad. This huge convoy consists of CIA/FBI/DEA/NIA/ASAF/USMC/USNS on land, sea and air, trying to intercept and stop them from succeeding.

The "Stealth" (Concept TA) decoy, is (not unlike KITT) capable of some rather interesting capabilities. In addition to monitoring Government communications, can run at "Hyper Speed" on straightaways, to confuse law agencies as to the wherabouts of "The Bandit" at times. While fully engaged with resources to intercept him, The truck, containing the shipment, only barely manages to slip through, in the end.

In addition to the cast, which will vary, and could easily change, based on availability, other on screen presence, of the vehicular variety, could include, but not limited to:

Muscle cars past and present "banditos" helping the shipment get through....with car clubs and clones galore.... Think "Fast and Furious" here.... Traffic jam scene...
Lots of handheld radios, Just like CBs were then...
Spoofs to include...General Lee jump... Ford Torino onto ferryboat,
Concept cars....sold by automakers, now in private hands, these cars are: "Off the Grid" so to speak, non tracable, and able to slip through....
Coinciding with Nascars big race in the region, all hell breaks loose in trying to track down the Bandit, and the convoy shipment going to the Cape!

Possible Stunts in the movie could include:

The bridge is threatened by a ship explosion... After an explosives truck falls off the bridge, onto it...

An Evil Knievel type jump (Like KITT doing a Hooper type jump) when a bridge is out. (Possible time travel element here)

Convoy Auto carrier truck drives under a bridge, and in all excitement, forgets clearance issue, cleans off top rack of imports....

Garbage truck into the sea,

Space junk falls onto a barge hauling combustible/explosive material, like fireworks and it explodes big time, out in the bay...

Perfect ending to a Big Finale...Fireworks on the 4th of July!

Musical content TB Determined, but lots of epic period music/flashback would have maximum impact.

David Niccolls

[Dave80USATA]

From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 8/10/2009 10:07:22 AM
To: David Niccolls
Subject: KEVIN MORGAN CONCEPT TRANS AM TO BE UNVEILED AT 2009 TRANS AM NATIONALS!


www.youtube.com/watch?v=N5afmztTdQw

Like its mythical namesake that rose from the ashes to a new life, the Trans Am of yesteryear has been born again... the Phoenix T/A. If it is true that good things come to those who wait, then we have surely been rewarded for our patience.

Trans Am Depot is pleased to announce our partnership with designer Kevin Morgan in turning a three-year dream into reality. We, like many of you, have lusted over Kevin's retro interpretation of the '77 - '78 Trans Am based on the 2010 Camaro platform. We began early last year discussing the idea of how we might work together to bring this vision to life.

Currently, we are completing a one-off Kevin Morgan "Trans Am" Concept, which we intend to unveil at the 2009 Trans Am Nationals. The concept will be followed by the first production conversion later this year. It will vary from the concept car but will be an exact version of the conversion kits we will hope to be offering this fall. We are working closely with a Detroit auto design firm to bring this kit to market. We will be offering everything from the body conversion only to the limited Phoenix Edition. The kits will be available as an installed conversion only. Order details, pricing and delivery information will be coming soon. If you are interested in having a conversion performed on your Camaro or purchasing a turn-key conversion from Trans Am Depot, please visit www.kevinmorgandesigns.com or www.transamdepot.com and fill out the customer form at the bottom of the page.

I personally want to thank each and everyone of you who supported me through this adventure. It has been BEYOND A DREAM and I look forward to working with the Trans Am Depot and BRINGING IT BACK for everyone!

God Bless!
Kevin Morgan
www.KevinMorganDesigns.com

*****************************************************

From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 8/10/2009 11:49:43 AM
To: David Niccolls
Subject: Re: KEVIN MORGAN CONCEPT TRANS AM TO BE UNVEILED AT 2009 TRANS AM NATIONALS!


Thank YOU!!!!

----- Original Message -----
From: David Niccolls
To: Kevin Morgan
Sent: Monday, August 10, 2009 1:36 PM
Subject: Re: KEVIN MORGAN CONCEPT TRANS AM TO BE UNVEILED AT 2009 TRANS AM NATIONALS!


Kevin!

I am beyond pleased for you, and all of us really! Exstatic is more like it! Wow!

I have shared the news to our local club.

I have to run...gotta drive my bus now.

You really did it man! I'm very, very pleased Brother!

David

*****************************************************

From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 9/3/2009 5:47:01 AM
To: David Nicc****
Subject: Re: T/A Concept Reveal


Thank you so much David. When the dust settles I am going to have a whole section on my website about the Concept T/A. Whew...3 and a half years of beating the streets to finally unveil a real car. Unreal!!! I could not be happier. I feel like the luckiest man in the world that i have been chosen to make this happen.

Take care my friend,
God Bless!
Kevin Morgan
www.KevinMorganDesigns.com
www.TransAmDepot.com

----- Original Message -----
From: David Nicc****
To: [e-mail]
Sent: Wednesday, September 02, 2009 11:45 PM
Subject: T/A Concept Reveal


Stunning Kevin!

Well Done!!

I hope you get a ton of orders for it too!!

I am scouring the net for photos of it also!

Dave Nicc****

Dave80USATA

*****************************************************

From: Kevin Morgan
Date: 9/3/2009 10:17:31 AM
To: David Nicc****
Subject: Re: T/A Concept Reveal


Some of those shots were setup by HPP magazine at the nationals....can you please tell the car club to keep them to themselves please? I shouldve mentioned that first....lol.

I am looking forward to wherever this project takes me. I have 3.5 years of hard work into this and am ready for it to go to the next level.

Thank you for your kind words and support....it is people like you that have helped me keep going with this project!!

God Bless,
Kevin

----- Original Message -----
From: David Nicc****
To: Kevin Morgan
Sent: Thursday, September 03, 2009 11:42 AM
Subject: Re: T/A Concept Reveal


Thanks for the pics Kevin.

I have shared them with our local club.

Be on the ready for the possibility of additional/future media attention, as well.

Utilize any/all of the available means to get the imagery/concept out. This includes your other work too.

I believe you have achieved the goal of making a name for yourself. Don't let the freight-train grind to a stop.

With your multiple streams of product development, keep tending to them, like a herd of sheep, gently guiding the direction you want to go.

I like your "Cars" concept toon T/A. Keep all your options open.

I'm always here to help in any way I can!

David.

******************************************************************************************

In prologue, having invested so much of my own energy in Kevin's work, has in effect, made me a silent , and not well known partner in this project to bring a concept car to life.

It explains why I am defensive of his work, whether or not people
support it, as no-one to date has stepped up in appreciation, of what it actually took for this to get off the ground!

Living in Canada, with a job, and a family, the best I could offer, was support and encouragement to his efforts, south of the border.

I am sure that it was not an easy road, for Kevin, to take an idea on paper, and bring to reality, but, HE DID IT! Whether or not, people like his version, or another version...



He was the one that got the fanbase excited, and approached GM,
The car forums exploded with activity, in discussing his drawings, and the blogs went crazy with news that GM almost took the initiative into consideration.

The economy changed all of that, of course, and the rest is history.

But Kevin did not drop the ball. When I reached out a hand of friendship, virtually handing the answers to him, and encouraging to bring HIS dream to reality....

Well, IT'S BACK!!!

warbirdta.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=talk&action=display&thread=500&page=1



View Kevin's Photo Gallery Here!
www.kevinmorgandesigns.com/sema2009.html

[Firehawk73]

Cool! As soon I win the lottery I'm getting one. I had a few emails with him also mainly for his permission to use his design for my avatar. He is really a nice guy! I wish him the best in his quest in continuing his dream.

[Dave80USATA]

There is now a third version of the KM T/A!

www.ottobody.com/home.html

www.transamdepot.com/index.html


#1


#2


#3

[WarbirdTA]

This version looks nice as well.
I wouldn't mind either version.

George

[Nexus]

I like them all myself

[Dave80USATA]

Kevin has been so busy.....

www.transamdepot.com/firehawk.html#firehawkvideo

[WarbirdTA]

Super nice!
I love airbrush Birds.

George

[Dave80USATA]

I tell ya....the guy (Kevin) is on fire, and probably never sleeps!

Check out the latest here!!

www.transamdepot.com/gallery/index.htm

www.transamdepot.com/index.html

www.kevinmorgandesigns.com/home.html