The DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, has added an unexpected attraction to its collection of classic cars and rare collectibles: Fast Fred, a fully autonomous robotic floor scrubber. Built as a Tennant X4 ROVR, Fast Fred was designed for cleaning but has quickly become one of the museum's most talked-about exhibits. Named after museum founder Ron Sturgeon's late twin brother, a lifelong drag racer, Fast Fred sports custom decals, an NHRA sticker, and a smiley face upfront, fitting right in among muscle cars and race legends.
During his three-hour cleaning runs, Fast Fred navigates the galleries with precision, pausing politely when guests cross his path before darting off again with racer-like urgency. Visitors often stop to snap photos or cheer him on as he cruises past rows of chrome and horsepower. 'In a museum built on speed, nostalgia, and the love of cars, it's only fitting that even our cleaning crew has racing DNA,' said Ron Sturgeon. 'Fast Fred keeps our floors spotless—and our visitors smiling.'
Fast Fred represents a fusion of automotive history and modern innovation, demonstrating how technology can enhance the museum experience. The DFW Car & Toy Museum, located at 2550 McMillan Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76137, offers free admission and parking. It features secure climate-controlled car storage and facilities for events. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. For more information, visit the museum's website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.
The Tennant X4 ROVR, powered by software from Brain Corp, is a product of Tennant Company, a leader in cleaning equipment. This robotic scrubber not only maintains cleanliness but also engages visitors, highlighting the potential for automation in public spaces. The museum's decision to personalize the scrubber underscores its commitment to creating a unique, family-friendly atmosphere.
Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, has been a car collector for over 30 years. His passion for automobiles began in his teenage years when he taught himself to repair Volkswagens, eventually leading to a successful career in the automotive industry. The museum itself started as the DFW Elite Toy Museum in the 1980s, collecting automobile toys and cars. It moved to its current location in North Fort Worth, offering a 150,000-square-foot facility that is dog-friendly and encourages pictures.
Fast Fred's popularity demonstrates how everyday technology can become a highlight when integrated thoughtfully into a themed environment. The DFW Car & Toy Museum continues to blend automotive history with modern innovation, creating an experience that surprises and delights guests of all ages.
