This week, the automotive and design worlds turned their heads as Ben Hedley (OI 1983-95), CEO of Hedley Studios, officially launched their newest masterwork: The Porsche 550 J. The original Porsche 550 Spyder was developed specifically for racing and made motorsport history in 1954. With a class victory and an impressive third-place finish overall at the Carrera Panamericana, the lightweight mid-engined sports car successfully held its own against competitors with significantly larger engine capacities. To mark 75 Years of Porsche Motorsport, Hedley Studios has reimagined this racing legend to create an exclusive, high-performance collector's item. There is something deeply inspiring about watching a fellow Old Ipswichian take on the world stage and do it with absolute precision, passion, and flair.

Announcing the launch, Ben shared:

"80% scale, 100% electric reinterpretation of a true racing icon. Today, Hedley Studios introduces the Porsche 550 J, our first creation in collaboration with Porsche AG, limited to just 250 examples worldwide.
The culmination of years of research and development, the Porsche 550 J was created with direct access to the Porsche Corporate Archives, original production drawings and cars from the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen.
More than 1,300 components have been meticulously designed and manufactured to capture the spirit and unmistakable character of the original. In RS Pack specification, the Porsche 550 J reaches up to 50 mph (80 km/h).
This landmark project marks an exciting new era for Hedley Studios. We could not be prouder of the team who brought it to life.

He also added:

"Back when I was 11 years old, rushing up to the school library every Wednesday to read the latest copy of Autocar, I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would be getting to design cars with companies like Porsche, Ferrari, Bentley & Bugatti!”

As fellow OI and current Headteacher Nick Gregory (OI 1981-88) added:

"What he and his company are achieving is hugely impressive. There ought to be a few of his former Ipswich School teachers who feel extraordinarily proud."

A huge shoutout also to fellow OI Chris Swallow (OI 1988-00) a Director at Swallow Marketing Communications Ltd., who helped produce the marketing for the launch. Chris noted:

"I am lucky enough to have seen Bens work up close and the craftsmanship is second to none. Lovely to see British manufacturing at its finest!"

For those of us watching from the OI community, it’s a brilliant reminder of where curiosity, grit, and high standards can lead. Seeing an OI member leading teams that collaborate directly with iconic global brands like Porsche is as motivating as it gets. A huge congratulations to the entire team at Hedley Studios on this landmark launch. You’ve set the bar sky-high, and we couldn't be prouder to cheer you on from the sidelines!

Explore the build in more detail at https://550j.com/.