Man Turns Barbie Camper into Gas-Saving Ride

With gas prices hitting wallets hard nationwide, people are getting creative to save money. Enter Mali Hightower, a handyman from Ellenwood, Georgia, who has turned a discarded child’s toy into a surprisingly functional, gas-powered ride. He took a broken pink Barbie Dream Camper and transformed it into a working mini-vehicle, proving that resourcefulness can be a powerful tool against rising costs.

From Toy to Transportation

Hightower, 30, found the discarded Barbie camper and decided to give it a new life. He stripped it down, welded it onto a go-kart frame, and installed a one-piston engine from a power washer. But he didn’t stop there! The mini-vehicle is now equipped with essential upgrades like brakes, lights, a horn, and even a sound system, making it suitable for running local errands.

This budget-friendly engineering feat is a perfect commentary on the rising cost of everyday living. It resonates deeply because, let’s face it, who hasn’t looked at the gas pump lately and wished for an alternative?

Impressive Speed and Savings

Hightower shared that his unique creation can reach speeds of up to 55 mph and gets an impressive 40 miles per tank. The cost to fill up? A mere $3! Compare that to the roughly $90 it takes to fuel his 1996 Mercedes-Benz convertible, and the savings are undeniable. As of May 23, 2026, the national average for regular gas was reported at $4.529 per gallon, making Hightower’s solution even more appealing.

This story is particularly poignant for Black families and working-class households already grappling with increased costs for food, rent, and childcare. The added expense of gas can force difficult decisions about daily commutes and errands.

A Creative Mind at Work

Known in his community as ‘Sota,’ Hightower is no stranger to creative builds. He’s previously turned old toy boats into functional vessels and has a knack for transforming “weird things into logical things.” His fiancée’s recent engagement announcement adds a personal touch, highlighting a working man creatively saving money as he prepares for a new life chapter.

However, Hightower wisely cautions that this isn’t a DIY project for everyone. He advises leaving such complex tinkering to experienced individuals. For the rest of us, his creation serves as a vibrant reminder of the power of resourcefulness and the many ways we can find to save money on transportation, whether it’s through bikes, electric options, or, in this case, a hot pink Barbie camper.

• Creator: Mali Hightower, handyman from Ellenwood, Georgia
• Project: Converted broken Barbie Dream Camper into a gas-powered vehicle
• Key Features: Go-kart frame, power washer engine, brakes, lights, horn, music
• Performance: Up to 55 mph, 40 miles per tank
• Cost to fill: Approximately $3
• Warning: Not a project for amateurs; leave to experienced builders