Amidst the crowd, Ronald Wong was already waving his arm high, his eyes crinkling into crescents behind his glasses. Fresh off a flight from the United States, the designer showed no signs of jet lag. He radiated the same fiery energy of the Hot Wheels toy cars he brings to life, embodying their speed and passion throughout the interview. After graduating from HKDI, he furthered his studies through SHAPE, earning a bachelor's degree in design, with all his coursework revolving around automotive design. The student who once doodled concept sketches in his textbooks now becomes the lead designer for Hot Wheels' Premium series in the U.S., refining childhood dreams from toy boxes into treasures displayed in collectors' cabinets worldwide.
Playful Ahead, Steady Gearshift
From the age of three, Ronald’s birthday gifts were always toy cars. His love for cars goes beyond mere play—he draws, photographs, and curates collections—every hobby revolves around wheels in motion. What truly made him realize the meaning of collecting was a limited time offer at a toy store: purchase 100 Hot Wheels car models would earn him 126 special edition cars. With the deadline approaching and Ronald’s collection still 30 cars short. His mother took him to the toy store without hesitation and bought the remaining cars in one go. That day, as they carried home a full box of 126 limited-edition mini cars, it dawned on Ronald: toy cars weren’t just playthings. They could be artworks and time capsules of history. The collector in him was ignited.
Fueled by this passion, he enrolled in HKDI’s Higher Diploma in Product Design , where he systematically studied design theory while relentlessly honing his sketching skills. Off-campus, he wandered with a camera, capturing fleeting moments of light and lines. These experiences laid the foundation for his future work in car design and photography. When HKDI partnered with Hot Wheels to launch an internship programme, offering students a chance to work with global toy giant. While other competitors were busy reciting company information during the interview, he effortlessly detailed Hot Wheels’ history, iconic models, and even design workflows. In the end, he stood out. After the internship, the manager sincerely told him, "Come back when you graduate!" That word was like a signal for him to start his drive in the industry. After completing his bachelor’s degree in Product Design through SHAPE, Ronald officially entered the professional racing track, with his design career accelerating ahead.
Joyride Without Fatigue, Shifting Gears at Full Throttle
In his early days at Hot Wheels, Ronald was primarily involved in research and development. Each toy car slated for production underwent rigorous testing—track stability, drop resistance, and safety checks to ensure no broken parts could harm children. At this point, he was no longer the boy who chased only "fun", he now balanced interest and safety. But Ronald craved more. His dream was to shift into fifth gear and tackle a more challenging track: designing his own toy car. By a fortunate coincidence, the U.S. headquarters provided him an opportunity to design a 1:64 scale "Spider Car," paired with a U.S. exchange programme. This dual boost caught management’s attention, and soon, he was transferred to the U.S. headquarters. There, the chill yet inclusive work culture and the company’s diversity allowed Ronald to indulge his passions. The green minibus – a tribute to Hong Kong’s local culture, which sold out instantly last year – showcased how he could blend hometown pride with global platform. As “Hong Kong’s first” Lead Designer for Hot Wheels Premium, he carries more than personal dreams. He hopes to pave the way for others, ensuring Hong Kong culture occupies a lane in the international toy market, racing across the world.
Ronald is not only a designer but also a seasoned toy car collector and supercar photographer. His collection boasts up to 20,000 cars, from every classic model from 1968 to the present, sourced worldwide. Even ultra-rare "Made in Hong Kong" pieces sit proudly in his archive. His home walls are almost covered with densely packed model cars and his own automotive photography, resembling a unique "car wallpaper." For true enthusiasts like Ronald, this is paradise. Since moving to the U.S., his "car collection empire" has expanded alongside his living space. As an employee, he enjoys discounted purchases and annual "staff exclusive editions." During his leisure time, he photographs both Hot Wheels models and exotic luxury cars —this is the ultimate expression of "combining work and entertainment."
Childlike Innocence, Endless Fun
Early in his career, Ronald once posted on social media, "I don't wanna grow up." Looking back, it seems his dream came true. Over a decade in the toy industry, only his body has aged; the heartbeat remains unchanged, still synced to the rhythm of that boy who once thrilled with joy over 126 limited-edition toy cars. On the day of the interview, coincidentally, his juniors were in class nearby. The alumnus—who only returns to Hong Kong once a year, was immediately invited by the teacher to be a guest speaker. Standing where his own creativity first took shape, he encouraged the young fellows: Growing up doesn't mean outgrowing wonder. Learn to play in extraordinary ways. For Ronald, true passion is premium lubricant, keeping the creative engine running at crazy speeds on Hot Wheels’ 360-degree looping track, proving that uncompromising car-designing philosophy can indeed be played to perfection.
