Zach Sutton’s unique Chrysler minivan turns heads as he cruises through the streets, leaving onlookers puzzled about its direction. Sutton ingeniously combined the front ends of a 1993 Dodge Caravan and a 1991 Plymouth Voyager, creating what he calls Bak2Bak. The amalgamated vehicle appears as two conjoined cars capable of driving in reverse.
Notably, the front half originates from a Canadian-built vehicle, while the rear is from an American-made one, symbolizing an unexpected blend of cross-border automotive craftsmanship. Sutton, a Detroit local immersed in the auto industry and interacting with Windsorites, sees his creation as a symbol of harmonious collaboration between neighboring countries.
Venturing into Windsor to share his story with CBC News, Sutton describes the project as a testament to unity between nations, reflecting the camaraderie he witnesses daily among colleagues from both sides of the border. This venture marks Sutton’s initial border crossing with his distinctive vehicle, showcasing his flair for unconventional projects.
Apart from his automotive endeavor, Sutton is active in the Detroit Freakbike Experience, a group specializing in innovative bicycle constructions using unconventional materials and designs. His diverse skill set includes sewing, woodworking, metalworking, and various hands-on crafts. Sutton aimed to create a project that transcends individual interests, aiming for universal appreciation through whimsical and playful design elements.
Crafting the vehicle at the i3detroit community workshop in Ferndale over three days, Sutton utilized laser technology to seamlessly merge the two front sections. Working alongside fellow builder Bob Katovich, Sutton meticulously dissected and reassembled the vehicles, transforming them into a cohesive unit. The rear half of the Voyager now serves as a storage space for Sutton’s tools, showcasing the vehicle’s practicality alongside its novelty.
The Franken-car’s transformation involved repurposing various components, such as using the Voyager’s headlights as taillights and adapting the steering mechanism for regular driving functionality. Despite its unconventional appearance, Sutton ensured the vehicle’s safety features, including two seat belts for passengers and a functional fuel tank arrangement.
Encountering a mix of bewilderment and amusement from onlookers, Sutton embraces the attention his creation garners, reflecting on the spontaneous joy it brings to observers. While the vehicle’s viral social media presence came as a surprise, Sutton emphasizes that his primary motivation was personal enjoyment and the thrill of driving a one-of-a-kind creation.