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Hack your ride! In this volume of Make:, you’ll find a 21-page special section on connected cars. You’ll also see the world’s cutest go-kart, DIY electric vehicles, 12 bike mods, and learn about custom dashboard computing. And if you can’t wait for the upcoming movie, build yourself a working, Star Wars-inspired, BB-8 droid! This issue also features skill builders on spray paint, choosing the right battery, and working with sheet metal and rivets. On top of that, you’ll find 40 projects, including:
ON THE COVER: Roll over, R2-D2 — BB-8 is the new droid everyone wants to build.
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Reinventing the first text message system.Page 08
Explore the amazing world of backyard technology.Page 10
The founders of Carbon Origins moved to the desert to build and launch rockets. Not so easy.Page 18
Sugru inventor Jane Ní Dhulchaointigh talks about finding her product’s niche.Page 26
Your wheels are your identity, so car or bike, mod them to your satisfaction!Page 28
Designing and building the electric Chibi-Mikuvan for the Power Racing Series.Page 30
Build the Switch electric vehicle — a street-legal, Maker-ready kit and education system.Page 34
These DIY car makers are pushing past the electric-vehicle big boys.Page 35
Will a vague copyright law constrain what hobbyists and modders can do with their vehicles?Page 36
Why settle for a factory dash? Customize your cockpit with these projects.Page 40
Personalize your ride with these clever pedal projects.Page 41
Finally, an e-bike conversion that anyone can do.Page 42
Upcycle soda bottles to make this long-lasting, waterproof, automatic flasher.Page 46
Tips on fabricating this fun and unique rolling-hoop ride.Page 47
Shine fun animations on the street that move depending on your speed!Page 48
Explore the tools and techniques you need to take on those challenging projects.Page 49
Three takes on making your own homebrew ball droid.Page 58
Build the burly Congolese workhorse that can haul hundreds of pounds of cargo.Page 62
Bring fun back to the flashlight with Arduino and full-color NeoPixel LEDs.Page 64
Make this ripper with a motor, wireless microcontrollers, and a few bucks of filament.Page 68
Three cordless screwdrivers and a microcontroller = perfect small-batch roasting.Page 72
Surprise your sweetheart with a handsome handmade flower.Page 73
Learn how to heat-treat and toughen the metal that built our world: carbon steel.Page 74
Wire up a clever timer circuit that draws no current between cycles. What could be greener?Page 76
Use LEDs to track nigh-tlaunched projectiles.Page 78
Build a simple PVC air cannon to help you win the water wars.Page 80
Summer is hot. So why not make a custom cooler to keep your drinks cold?Page 81
Construct an easy homemade Pinewood Derby track.Page 82
Learn how to solder Chip and his Pixel Power base, then plug him into an Arduino.Page 84
Hack a pair of flip-flops so they make designs in the sand as you walk.Page 85
Unique and useful Maker tools, toys, and materials.Page 86
On the horizon for electronics and accessories.Page 88
Text tools for your bench or bedside table.Page 90
Printrbot Metal Plus, thoroughly tested.Page 92
If you were a MechWarrior fan in the ’90s, your dreams are about to come true.Page 96