Building a Time Traveler: Tesla’s BTTF-Inspired TMC-12X

How a Tesla Model X Became the Ultimate BTTF Tribute

Bradenton, Florida, may not be the most obvious place to stumble upon a tribute to cinematic history, but nestled in a custom shop south of Tampa, this modern legend came to life: meet the TMC-12X (a wordplay on Tesla Model X and DeLorean Motor Company DMC-12). Built by Robert “Bob” Selby, owner of The Shop, this one-of-a-kind EV melds modern technology with Hollywood nostalgia in a way that has to be seen—and heard—to be believed.

From the DMC to the TMC

Bob’s shift from skepticism to passion for EVs began with a single test drive.

“I thought Teslas were just appliances,” he admits, “but when I drove the Plaid, it was like stepping into the future.”

This pivotal moment inspired Bob to apply his talent for cinematic tributes to an EV platform, merging cutting-edge technology with the imaginative storytelling of the “Back to the Future” films.

Bob had already built a variety of modern movie car tributes, such as a “Mad Max” Interceptor based on a Dodge Hellcat and a “Resident Evil Umbrella Corp” Dodge Charger. With the TMC-12X, he set out to reimagine the DeLorean time machine for the electric age. This isn’t just a Tesla with a fancy wrap—it’s a “balls-out” re-imagination of the DeLorean, complete with dual flamethrowers (yes, you read that right!), flux bands, a faux Mr. Fusion, and even a replica flux capacitor.

The transformation began with wrapping the Tesla in a stainless-steel-inspired vinyl wrap to mimic the brushed metal finish of the DeLorean. Custom flux bands, crafted with care, wrap around the car to evoke the glowing energy conduits from the movies. The Model X’s iconic falcon-wing doors are a perfect modern analog to the DeLorean’s gullwing design, tying the homage together seamlessly. Lastly, the Asanti Black Label wheels with custom centers pay a superb tribute to the original ones.

At the rear, the Model X’s back windshield was completely removed to make way for a custom energy reactor. Built from tubing, piping, and salvaged parts, the reactor is a convincing replica of the movie car’s time-travel setup, complete with glowing lights and detailed labeling. Dual flamethrowers, mounted on either side of the rear bumper, complete the look—and function exactly as you’d hope, leaving real blazing tire tracks on the road, just like in the films.

Interior Upgrades

The interior of the TMC-12X also comes to life. A replica flux capacitor glows prominently in the center of the cabin, accompanied by labeled warnings to “Shield Eyes From Light.” Above the center console, fully functional time circuits allow users to input their destination year. Bob even preloaded key dates from the films, such as Oct. 26, 1985, and Aug. 25, 2015, for authenticity.

The Tesla’s yoke steering wheel remains a modern touch, but the rest of the cockpit is a mix of technology and nostalgia. Custom gauges display faux plutonium levels and power output, while toggle switches control the car’s practical effects. A white keypad, positioned to the left of the steering column, is a faithful replica of the one Doc used to input time-travel dates in the films. Above the gauge cluster, an 88 mph speedometer and movie-inspired gauges complete the nostalgic setup, while additional time-travel equipment below the touchscreen pays homage to the original DeLorean’s iconic dashboard.

Adding another layer of interactivity, Bob installed a liquid CO2 system for theatrical plumes of vapor. Activated via a red toggle switch on the Tesla’s dashboard, the CO2 system produces dramatic effects that mimic the energy dispersal of cinematic time travel.

“It’s all about creating a full sensory experience,” Bob says.

One of the more whimsical yet technically impressive aspects of the TMC-12X is its custom sound system. While the Tesla Model X is known for its near-silent operation, Selby gave his creation a voice—several, in fact. Using a JL Audio setup with strategically placed subwoofers and speakers, the TMC-12X can emit a range of sound effects, including the rumble of a classic V8 engine, the whir of a futuristic hovercraft, and even humorous nods to “Rick and Morty.” Each sound is selectable via the interior control panel, offering an auditory experience as customizable as the car itself.

Real Flamethrowers!

One of the most jaw-dropping features of the TMC-12X is its fully functional flamethrowers—a fiery nod to the flaming tire tracks left by the DeLorean in “Back to the Future.” Bob Selby achieved this cinematic effect by installing two flamethrower units at the rear of the car, each mounted with precision and protected by custom heat shields to prevent damage to the vehicle’s components. The system uses twin 250 L/hour Walbro race fuel pumps, which draw from a five-gallon fuel tank specifically designated for the flamethrowers. Activated via a custom control panel in the cabin, the flamethrowers ignite bursts of fuel to create spectacular flames that mimic the iconic visuals from the movie.

“It’s both practical for tailgaters and perfect for time travel,” Bob jokes.

Meticulous engineering went into ensuring the safety and reliability of this feature, including reinforced mounting and extensive testing to make it as robust as it is visually stunning. Complementing the fiery spectacle of the flamethrowers, Bob installed a CO2 jet system to add another layer of theatricality to the TMC-12X. Strategically positioned alongside the flamethrowers, the CO2 jets release dramatic plumes of vapor, mimicking the cooling and energy dispersal effects seen in cinematic time travel scenes. Controlled via the same interior panel as the flamethrowers, the CO2 system enhances the visual impact while also serving as a practical method for dispersing heat after extended use. This combination of fire and vapor creates an unforgettable effect, capturing the spirit of “Back to the Future” in every detail!

Taking it to the Next Level

Bob has ambitious plans for the TMC-12X, with future phases set to enhance both its aesthetics and functionality.

“This is only phase two out of five,” he reveals.

Upcoming upgrades include even more intricate lighting effects, additional exterior details to heighten the sci-fi aesthetic, and enhanced integration of the car’s practical effects. Selby also plans to introduce an interactive element for fans, allowing passengers to experience a simulated “time travel” sequence, complete with synchronized lighting, sound, and motion cues.

“The idea is to make it as immersive as possible,” he says. “I want people to feel like they’ve stepped into the movie.”

Selby’s shop has become a hub for custom EV builds, and he has no intention of slowing down. With plans to expand into EV powertrain conversions for classic cars, The Shop is poised to push the boundaries of what’s possible in automotive customization. Check its work at www.autoshopusa.com.

SPECS

The TMC-12X Tesla Time Machine

Owner: Robert ‘Bob’ Selby, The Shop
Base Vehicle: Tesla Model X Plaid

Performance

0–60 mph: 2.5 seconds
Top Speed: 162 mph
Horsepower: 1,020 hp
Drive System: Dual-motor all-wheel drive
Range: 348 miles (unmodified EPA-estimate)

Exterior Modifications

Stainless-steel-inspired vinyl wrap, mimicking the original DeLorean’s finish
Custom-built flux bands with integrated lighting effects
Custom rear-mounted energy reactor, handcrafted with tubing and piping for movie-accurate aesthetics
Dual flamethrowers, functional flame effects with heat shields for safety
“OUTAGAS” custom license plate
DeLorean-inspired Asanti Black Label wheels with custom centers with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S 265/35R22

Interior Modifications

Fully functional time circuits with selectable dates
Replica flux capacitor
JL Audio sound system for custom engine and hover sounds
Custom control panel for flamethrowers and CO2 jets
Flamethrower and CO2 System
Dual Exothermic Pulsefire flamethrower units, custom-mounted at the rear of the vehicle
Twin Walbro 250 L/hour race fuel pumps for consistent fuel delivery
Dedicated five-gallon fuel tank exclusively for the flamethrower system
Activated via a custom control panel integrated into the interior
Reinforced mounting and heat shields to protect vehicle components from high temperatures
CO2 jets installed alongside flamethrowers for dramatic cooling effects and theatrical enhancements
CO2 system activated via the same control panel for seamless integration with other effects
Fully tested for safety and reliability, ensuring cinematic-quality performance without compromising functionality

Fun Features

Replica hoverboard in the trunk
Movie-inspired lighting effects
Sound modes including V8, hovercraft, and pop culture nods
Build Time: Six months
Built By: The Shop, Bradenton, FL
(www.autoshopusa.com and @TheShopFL)