The legacy of the DeLorean Motor Company — immortalized by the Back to the Future film trilogy — is charging into a new era. DeLorean Labs, the blockchain-focused division of the reimagined automaker, is merging retro-futurism with cutting-edge Web3 technology, and it’s doing so with a surprising ally: Sir Patrick Stewart, the acclaimed British actor best known for his roles in Star Trek and X-Men.
In a recent promotional video, Stewart declared, “They say the best way to predict the future is to create it.” That quote isn’t just a dramatic line — it’s now the rallying cry for DeLorean’s ambitious plan to launch the Alpha 5 electric vehicle (EV), the first new DeLorean in over four decades, backed by blockchain innovation.
The DeLorean Alpha 5: A Modern Throwback
Scheduled for release by 2027, the DeLorean Alpha 5 is shaping up to be a sleek, high-performance electric coupe inspired by the original DMC-12’s gull-wing doors and stainless-steel body. Early renderings suggest a design that blends Tesla-like minimalism with Porsche-level refinement. While final pricing hasn’t been confirmed, industry estimates place the expected MSRP around $125,000.
But what truly sets this car apart isn’t just its nostalgic silhouette — it’s how ownership is being reimagined through blockchain technology.
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Blockchain Integration: From NFTs to Onchain Ownership
DeLorean Labs has launched an onchain reservation system using Sui NFTs for the Alpha 5. These aren’t mere digital collectibles — each Build Slot NFT represents a guaranteed place in line to purchase one vehicle. The lower the NFT number, the earlier the delivery.
Originally, these Build Slot NFTs were minted on Polygon, but technical limitations prompted a shift. Now, DeLorean has partnered with Sui Foundation and Mysten Labs, leveraging the Move programming language for its robust smart contract capabilities and scalability.
As part of this transition, approximately 1,300 legacy NFTs sold in 2023 are being migrated to the Sui blockchain and integrated into a new onchain marketplace at marketplace.delorean.com. This platform will handle not only initial reservations but also future vehicle resale and ownership transfers — all recorded transparently onchain.
Once the Alpha 5 launches, vehicle data such as mileage, service history, and ownership records will also be stored on the blockchain, creating a tamper-proof provenance trail.
How to Secure a DeLorean Alpha 5
Acquiring a spot isn’t as simple as clicking “buy now.” Prospective owners must navigate a multi-step process:
- Create a DeLorean account
- Connect or set up a Sui wallet (such as Slush)
- Purchase an Alpha Club membership — a one-time $88 fee
- Buy a Build Slot NFT for $2,500 via the DeLorean marketplace
Each NFT grants one reservation slot. However, ownership isn’t fixed — NFTs can be resold or bid on through the marketplace. While buyers may pay more or less than $2,500 in secondary transactions, only **$2,500 per NFT will be credited toward the final vehicle purchase**.
This system ensures early supporters are rewarded while allowing market dynamics to influence secondary pricing.
What’s Next? The DMC Token and Staking
Beyond NFTs, DeLorean Labs plans to introduce a native DMC token in the future. Though details remain under wraps, the token is expected to support utility features such as:
- Governance rights for community decisions
- Access to exclusive events or merchandise
- Incentives for long-term NFT holders
Additionally, token staking will likely be introduced, offering passive rewards and reinforcing long-term engagement with the ecosystem.
With production estimates ranging from 1,300 to 10,000 vehicles annually, DeLorean aims to remain a low-volume, high-exclusivity brand — appealing to collectors and tech-savvy enthusiasts alike.
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FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Q: Is Sir Patrick Stewart involved in DeLorean beyond the promotional video?
A: As of now, Stewart’s role appears limited to endorsement and brand advocacy. There’s no public indication he holds equity or decision-making power within DeLorean Labs.
Q: Can I test drive the Alpha 5 before buying?
A: Not yet. The vehicle is still in development, with no official test drive program available. Production is expected by 2027.
Q: Are there any color options confirmed?
A: Yes — red, white, and gray have been mentioned as confirmed paint options so far.
Q: What happens if I sell my Build Slot NFT? Do I lose my place in line?
A: Yes. The reservation is tied directly to NFT ownership. Selling the NFT transfers your place in line to the new owner.
Q: Will there be a cap on total NFTs issued?
A: Unclear. While initial slots are limited, DeLorean has not confirmed whether additional NFTs will be minted in the future.
Q: Why did DeLorean choose Sui over other blockchains?
A: According to Evan Kuhn, President of DeLorean Labs, Sui’s Move language offered superior flexibility and performance for their smart contract needs — especially compared to earlier plans with Polygon.
Core Keywords Integration
This initiative sits at the intersection of several fast-evolving trends: electric vehicles, NFTs, blockchain car ownership, Sui blockchain, Web3 innovation, tokenized assets, DeLorean Alpha 5, and crypto-powered reservations. By embedding these elements into a real-world product launch, DeLorean Labs is demonstrating how blockchain can move beyond digital art into tangible, high-value applications.
For fans of retro-futurism and tech-forward brands, the Alpha 5 represents more than nostalgia — it’s a statement about where mobility and ownership are headed.
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Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Wait?
The path to owning a DeLorean Alpha 5 is complex — requiring crypto wallets, NFT purchases, and patience over several years. But for enthusiasts who grew up dreaming of time-traveling in a gull-winged machine, this fusion of pop culture legacy and decentralized technology might be worth every step.
While challenges remain — including final pricing, delivery timelines, and real-world performance — DeLorean Labs is building something bold: a car brand where every aspect of ownership is reimagined through Web3.
Whether this vision drives mainstream adoption or remains a niche experiment will depend on execution. But one thing’s certain — the future of automotive innovation just got a lot more interesting.