Full Breakdown
The Splinter: A Unique Wooden Supercar
3/16/2026, 1:08:17 PM
Core Event: The Creation of the Splinter Supercar
The Splinter is a distinctive supercar notable for its construction primarily from wood, a material rarely associated with automotive design. Developed by Joe Harmon, this one-of-a-kind vehicle incorporates composite wood in nearly every aspect, including the chassis, interior, and even parts of the wheels, while housing a mid-engine V8 and a six-speed manual gearbox.
Background & Context: The Vision Behind the Splinter
Joe Harmon, the creator of the Splinter, aimed to challenge conventional automotive materials by utilizing wood in a way that extends beyond mere aesthetics. His vision was to demonstrate the potential of wood as a functional material in high-performance vehicles. The project draws inspiration from traditional automotive engineering, incorporating parts from the Chevrolet CTS-V and Corvette, which enhances its performance capabilities.
Key Features of the Splinter
The Splinter weighs approximately 2,600 pounds and is powered by a mid-engine V8 that produces an estimated 690 horsepower, aided by a custom exhaust and camshaft. The vehicle's design integrates wood not just for its visual appeal but as a fundamental component of its structure and functionality. This innovative approach results in a supercar that is as much a work of art as it is a high-performance machine.
Official Statements & Responses
Joe Harmon has expressed pride in the Splinter's unique design, stating that the use of wood is integral to the car's identity. He emphasized that the project was not merely about creating a visually striking vehicle but also about exploring the capabilities of wood in automotive engineering.
Criticism & Opposition: Skepticism About Wood as a Material
Despite its innovative design, the Splinter has faced skepticism regarding the practicality and durability of wood in automotive applications. Critics argue that traditional materials like metal and carbon fiber offer superior strength and safety. The long-term performance and maintenance of a wooden supercar remain points of contention among automotive experts.
What's Next: Future of Wooden Supercars
The Splinter's creation may pave the way for further exploration of unconventional materials in automotive design. As the automotive industry increasingly seeks sustainable alternatives, the success or challenges faced by the Splinter could influence future projects that aim to integrate eco-friendly materials into high-performance vehicles.
Verbatim Quotes
“Essentially, if you were to begin stripping away wood from the completed project, you would end up with nothing resembling or functioning like a car.” — Joe Harmon, Creator of the Splinter
“ Essentially, the project included some Chevy Corvette DNA, helping to bolster its performance pedigree.” — Joe Harmon, Creator of the Splinter
“The wood isn't simply used as a surface level cosmetic; rather, it extends all the way into the heart of the Splinter model.” — Joe Harmon, Creator of the Splinter
