https://www.aidesign.com/ 1 https://www.aidesign.com/design 0.7 https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c1-1.jpg Some client vehicles in our shop Some client vehicles in our shop https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c1-2.jpg Ferrari F40 Restoration Ferrari F40 Restoration https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c1-3.jpg Ferrari F40 Restoration Ferrari F40 Restoration https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c1-4.jpg A customized ICON FJ43 A customized ICON FJ43 https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c1-5.jpg ICON FJ43 interior cockpit and switch panel ICON FJ43 interior cockpit and switch panel https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c1-6.jpg Cadillac CTS V customized interior Cadillac CTS V customized interior https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c1-7.jpg Packard 1940 Model 110 Sedan Restoration Packard 1940 Model 110 Sedan Restoration https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c1-8.jpg Packard 1940 Model 110 Sedan interior Packard 1940 Model 110 Sedan interior https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c1-9.jpg Custom harness bar with upholstered tubing Custom harness bar with upholstered tubing https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c2-1.jpg Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c2-2.jpg Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c2-3.jpg Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c2-4.jpg Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c2-5.jpg Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c2-6.jpg Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c2-7.jpg Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c2-8.jpg Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c2-9.jpg Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients Some notes and renderings from Matt to clients https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c3-1.jpg A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c3-2.jpg A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c3-3.jpg A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c3-4.jpg A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c3-5.jpg A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c3-6.jpg A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c3-7.jpg A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c3-8.jpg A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c3-9.jpg A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c3-10.jpg A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c3-11.jpg A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c3-12.jpg A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c3-13.jpg A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute A unique themed build: Lexus LX450 Biggie tribute https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c4-1.jpg Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c4-2.jpg Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c4-3.jpg Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c4-4.jpg Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c4-5.jpg Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c4-6.jpg Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c4-7.jpg Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c4-8.jpg Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/design/design-c4-9.jpg Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication Cadillac Escalade custom console fabrication https://www.aidesign.com/expertise 0.7 https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/expertise/expertise-body-21.jpg FULL-SCALE CUSTOM DESIGN & BUILD Large-scale projects require top notch tooling, a highly functioning facility and superb craftsmen. We also bring great design chops and the ability to communicate ideas through drawings and renderings. Above all else, our management of each project is the critical ingredient: from the choreography and cadence of the work, to the administrative details like part-sourcing, it is key to a proper outcome and a high standard met. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/expertise/expertise-body-22.jpg EV CONVERSIONS A new category we are excited to offer, EV conversions entail replacing a fuel combustion engine and its corresponding systems with an electric motor and batteries, to convert to an electric vehicle. No small task, this requires significant planning, specialized knowledge and safety considerations. Our electrical backbone, creativity and style pair perfectly with this end. EV conversions in classic cars and EV resto-rods are a future we see clearly. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/expertise/expertise-body-23.jpg PERFORMANCE & EUROPEAN TUNING Program-minded tuning is our standard approach to enhancing performance of European and domestic vehicles. Additionally, tuners such as Brabus, Brembo, Callaway, Pogea Racing and RENNtech are some of our partners. These firms specialize in a particular car marque or car part segment, and provide us with reliable, safe and powerful up-fits for their specialties. Aerodynamics, engine tuning, suspension tuning and braking are general areas which make up this segment. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/expertise/expertise-body-24.jpg CUSTOM SEATING & INTERIORS Design, coachwork and trim work make up a proper custom interior. We draw inspiration from many exquisite and vintage British and Italian interiors as well as the more spartan German/Bauhaus aesthetic. We put great emphasis on the bones - the coachwork - forming panels and shapes, sculpting the interior. Trim work finishes it off, painting the interior in leathers, fabrics, carpets - it’s an art, and brings challenges that we welcome. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/expertise/expertise-body-25.jpg AUDIOPHILE QUALITY CAR AUDIO Car Audio was Matt’s entry point to cars. A love of music sparked a passion for absolute integration of the parts and components of a proper audio system. It is a love shared by many of our staff and clients. We have evolved this tremendously over decades to deliver high fidelity listening experiences of varying magnitudes, integrated so seamlessly into the cockpit that they’re virtually invisible. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/expertise/expertise-body-26.jpg ELECTRONICS SYSTEMS So wide ranging! We lay in wiring and hardware for a multitude of electronic systems, including hard-modifications to OEM body control features. These can be elaborate, and require significant design to ensure that our wiring is of the same (or better) quality and appearance as the OEM wiring. Mindful of where to physically situate it, we offer friendly disconnects and routing that a dealership tech can work with easily. We take pride in this level of thoughtfulness and care. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/expertise/expertise-body-27.jpg LIGHTING Adding lights could certainly be considered entry level customization, but to integrate great lighting, we make custom parts nearly always - fabricating steel or aluminum brackets, welding, powder coating, CAD-designing and 3D-printing custom bezels and trims - whatever it takes for the lamp to sit right, look right, and perform right. From simple to complex, from the ubiquitous fog lamp to dimmer-controlled hidden interior or ambient lighting, we can integrate it. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/expertise/expertise-body-28.jpg RADAR DETECTION & LIDAR JAMMING Over thirty years ago this was a very exclusive product that few could afford let alone install. We were the first to remote-mount a Valentine 1 the week it was released in 1992. We were first to situate a radar display behind the glass of a rear view mirror, and first to use CAD and 3D printing to integrate radar/laser displays and controls. Their complexity fuels our design of unique solutions for optimal performance. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/expertise/expertise-body-29.jpg PAINT CARE TRINITY & DETAILING We refer to our detailing and paint care offerings as the Trinity. There are 3 major stages to this package, including Paint Correction, Paint Protection Film, and Ceramic Coating. We have thoroughly researched and tested our methods and materials for these processes, to offer a comprehensive package appropriate and beneficial to all vehicles, old and new. https://www.aidesign.com/tooling 0.7 https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c1-01.jpg Ai Design Shop Exterior Ai Design Shop Exterior https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c1-02.jpg?r=1 A view into our studio A view into our studio https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c1-03.jpg A view into our woodshop A view into our woodshop https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c1-04.jpg A view into our woodshop A view into our woodshop https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c1-05.jpg A view into our woodshop A view into our woodshop https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c1-07.jpg Our CNC router milling a part Our CNC router milling a part https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c1-08.jpg 3D scanning a door panel 3D scanning a door panel https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c1-09.jpg Our 3D printer Our 3D printer https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c1-09b.jpg Our new lunch & kitchen area Our new lunch & kitchen area https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c1-10.jpg Our tire machine station Our tire machine station https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c1-11.jpg And our interior wash bay And our interior wash bay https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c2-01.jpg Our custom wire spool storage rack Our custom wire spool storage rack https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c2-02.jpg A place for everything... A place for everything... https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c2-03.jpg ...and everything in its place ...and everything in its place https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c2-04.jpg Woodshop storage Woodshop storage https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c2-05.jpg Custom wood storage rack CAD design Custom wood storage rack CAD design https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c2-06.jpg Custom wood storage rack built Custom wood storage rack built https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c2-07.jpg With well-organized storage... With well-organized storage... https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c2-08.jpg Everything is easy to find... Everything is easy to find... https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c2-09.jpg Easy to put away... Easy to put away... https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c2-10.jpg And easy to see... And easy to see... https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c2-11.jpg Even the trash! Even the trash! https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c3-01.jpg Great utility for great productivity Great utility for great productivity https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c3-01b.jpg Our custom downdraft table Our custom downdraft table https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c3-02.jpg Large-format 2D-Scan Tablet Large-format 2D-Scan Tablet https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c3-03.jpg Metal working machines Metal working machines https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c3-04.jpg Welding a part for a project Welding a part for a project https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c3-05.jpg Pipe-bending machine Pipe-bending machine https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c3-06.jpg Splitting a piece of leather Splitting a piece of leather https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c3-07.jpg Our vinyl plotter/cutter Our vinyl plotter/cutter https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c3-08.jpg Soldering and electronics testing station Soldering and electronics testing station https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c3-09.jpg Testing some circuitry Testing some circuitry https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c3-10.jpg Our battleship board - The shop at a glance Our battleship board - The shop at a glance https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c4-01.jpg Project staging: customized stands & coverings Project staging: customized stands & coverings https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c4-02.jpg Project staging: customized stands & coverings Project staging: customized stands & coverings https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c4-03.jpg Project staging: customized stands & coverings Project staging: customized stands & coverings https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c4-05.jpg Project staging: customized stands & coverings Project staging: customized stands & coverings https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c4-07.jpg Project staging: customized stands & coverings Project staging: customized stands & coverings https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c4-08.jpg Project staging: customized stands & coverings Project staging: customized stands & coverings https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c4-09.jpg Project staging: customized stands & coverings Project staging: customized stands & coverings https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c4-10.jpg Project staging: customized stands & coverings Project staging: customized stands & coverings https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c5-01.jpg Additional staging tools: Power & lighting Additional staging tools: Power & lighting https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c5-02.jpg Project staging: Storage & labeling Project staging: Storage & labeling https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c5-03.jpg Additional staging tools: Signage & info Additional staging tools: Signage & info https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c5-04.jpg Additional staging tools: Signage & info Additional staging tools: Signage & info https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c5-05.jpg Additional staging & labeling Additional staging & labeling https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c5-06.jpg A trickle charger at a car battery A trickle charger at a car battery https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c5-07.jpg And laser level precision always And laser level precision always https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c6-01.jpg From simple pencil hacks and sanding tools From simple pencil hacks and sanding tools https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c6-02.jpg From simple pencil hacks and sanding tools From simple pencil hacks and sanding tools https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c6-03.jpg to custom jigs and templates to custom jigs and templates https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c6-04.jpg we design tools for the needs of our projects we design tools for the needs of our projects https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c6-06.jpg These customized stands are fully maneuverable These customized stands are fully maneuverable https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/tooling/tooling-c6-07.jpg With their own power supply and controls With their own power supply and controls https://www.aidesign.com/materials 0.7 https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-01.jpg Hardware & Fasteners The devil's in the details. Some may consider these to be minor details, but to us, the quality of the final product is determined just as much by the quality of these small parts – how they'll perform, how they'll endure. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-02.jpg Wood Products Uncut and unfinished, this raw material is a blank canvas for fabrication and invention. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-03.jpg Metals https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-04.jpg Plastics & Composites https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-05.jpg Wire, Terminals & Sleeving https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-06.jpg Electronic Circuit Components https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-07.jpg Signal Cables https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-08.jpg Chemicals, Adhesives, Sealants & Cleaners https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-09.jpg Lubricants & Solvents https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-10.jpg Detailing Supplies & Chemicals https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-11.jpg Films & Vinyls https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-14.jpg Paints, Coatings & Surface Prep We frequently paint parts, often in black. We know a lot about black paint. For example, when we paint small parts in-house, we strictly use rattle cans, and for us there is only one black paint. It's German and utterly consistent. And although it costs twice as much as any other paint we know of or have tried, it's the only one we'll use. The can itself literally weighs double the weight of a comparable can of Rustoleum, as it's packed with solids. As a result, it lays down a thick, absolutely opaque, matte black finish. To say it's superior would be an understatement. We always have it in stock, as there's no other paint like it, and it performs the way we need it to. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-13.jpg Plating https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-24.jpg Upholstery Materials From Garrett and Spinneybeck leathers to Wilton wool, these materials are of the finest luxury quality. While these may seem like finished products, there's still so much more that we do – skiving, splitting, hand-sewing – until it's finished to our standards for each project. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-15.jpg Audio Components There's deep-rooted love for Car Audio in these parts. Curating the gear we like to use is not solely based on brand recognition or overall quality of a particular brand. Our choices are acutely aligned with the application at-hand, as cars have many unique complexities which need consideration when choosing components. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-16.jpg Flir & Specialty Camera Systems https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-17.jpg Communications Components https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-18.jpg Radar & LIDAR Components https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-19.jpg Power Conversion & Supply Components https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-20.jpg Exhaust System Components https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-21.jpg Drive Train https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-22.jpg Braking https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-23.jpg Suspension Components https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-26.jpg Wheels & Tires Some materials are essentially finished products that don't require much additional customization or work beyond installing them. In these products as much as any other materials we use, quality is of the utmost importance, and we bring decades of experience to our process for selecting and vetting these brands and vendors. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-27.jpg Lighting https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-28.jpg Specialty Accessories https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/materials/materials-body-29.jpg Off Road Equipment https://www.aidesign.com/work 0.7 https://www.aidesign.com/about 0.7 https://www.aidesign.com/contact-us 0.2 https://www.aidesign.com/work/e45 0.5 https://www.aidesign.com/work/1932-ford-deuce 0.5 https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c1-main-1.jpg Open-wheel style roadster. Open-wheel style roadster. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c1-main-2.jpg DuVall-style windscreen and frame... DuVall-style windscreen and frame with commensurate deletions of the original ’32 windshield pillar body-bosses, door hinge and handles, and trunk handle – clean body, no appendages. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c1-main-3.jpg DuVall-style windscreen and frame... DuVall-style windscreen and frame with commensurate deletions of the original ’32 windshield pillar body-bosses, door hinge and handles, and trunk handle – clean body, no appendages. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c1-main-4.jpg Side exit, unmufflered exhaust dumps... Side exit, unmufflered exhaust dumps with mufflered tail pipe set exiting the rear, all with an on-the-fly user-switch between the two. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c1-main-5.jpg Big block, Roush 427R... Big block, Roush 427R. Polished engine bay bits, power steering and power brakes. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c1-main-6.jpg ...the decision to go with a steel body... And maybe most important, the decision to go with a steel body as opposed to the many fiberglass choices that are out there. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c1-main-7.jpg Steel is just real... Steel is just real. It has an undeniable authenticity and we believe the decision supports a more ideal provenance and value-setting quality should a car like this need to change hands one day. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c1-main-8.jpg Luckily, just one manufacturer on planet Earth... Luckily, just one manufacturer on planet Earth makes exact replica duplicates of the original ’32 sheet metal in the same gauge steel as was used then – Brookville Roadster. We called them up, spec’d a ’32 body, and several months later it rolled on up to the shop. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c1-main-9.jpg Luckily, just one manufacturer on planet Earth... Luckily, just one manufacturer on planet Earth makes exact replica duplicates of the original ’32 sheet metal in the same gauge steel as was used then – Brookville Roadster. We called them up, spec’d a ’32 body, and several months later it rolled on up to the shop. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c2-main-1.jpg Hand-crafted interior, every inch... Hand-crafted interior, every inch custom-fabricated. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c2-main-2.jpg Hand-crafted interior, every inch... Hand-crafted interior, every inch custom-fabricated. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c2-main-3.jpg Hand-crafted interior, every inch... Hand-crafted interior, every inch custom-fabricated. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c2-main-4.jpg Seating: What looks like a continuous bench... Seating: What looks like a continuous bench seat is actually split down the middle and is a set of bucket chairs, each adjustable individually. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c2-main-5.jpg Seating: What looks like a continuous bench... Seating: What looks like a continuous bench seat is actually split down the middle and is a set of bucket chairs, each adjustable individually. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c2-main-6.jpg Hidden 4-point belts and harness bar... Hidden 4-point belts and harness bar for the client’s children to use. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c2-main-7.jpg Hidden 4-point belts and harness bar... Hidden 4-point belts and harness bar for the client’s children to use. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c2-main-8.jpg Fully finished trunk, Wilton wool carpeting... Fully finished trunk, Wilton wool carpeting, fitted leather wallets to store fender panels if you want to run the car with fenders off – engine exposed. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c2-main-9.jpg Fully finished trunk, Wilton wool carpeting... Fully finished trunk, Wilton wool carpeting, fitted leather wallets to store fender panels if you want to run the car with fenders off – engine exposed. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c2-main-10.jpg Engine-turned, stainless steel gauge dressings... Engine-turned, stainless steel gauge dressings and hidden under-dash control panel and speaker system. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c2-main-11.jpg Engine-turned, stainless steel gauge dressings... Engine-turned, stainless steel gauge dressings and hidden under-dash control panel and speaker system. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c2-main-13.jpg Cleverly placed, mostly hidden stereo system. Cleverly placed, mostly hidden stereo system. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c2-main-14.jpg Period-correct license plate... Period-correct license plate, frenched into trunk sheet metal. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c2-main-15.jpg Period-correct license plate... Period-correct license plate, frenched into trunk sheet metal. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c3-main-1.jpg Roush 427R Polished engine... Roush 427R Polished engine: 427 cid / 550 hp / 535 ft-lb Ported aluminum heads Dual sump oil pan 770 cfm carburetor Edelbrock single plane intake Forged pistons, 4340 forged crankshaft, 4340 H-Beam rods Tru-Trac FEAD with P/S & alternator Ron Davis radiator & oil cooler MSD 8207 street blaster & MSD 8595 Pro billet distributor https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c3-main-2.jpg Roush 427R Polished engine... Roush 427R Polished engine: 427 cid / 550 hp / 535 ft-lb Ported aluminum heads Dual sump oil pan 770 cfm carburetor Edelbrock single plane intake Forged pistons, 4340 forged crankshaft, 4340 H-Beam rods Tru-Trac FEAD with P/S & alternator Ron Davis radiator & oil cooler MSD 8207 street blaster & MSD 8595 Pro billet distributor https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c3-main-3.jpg Roush 427R Polished engine... Roush 427R Polished engine: 427 cid / 550 hp / 535 ft-lb Ported aluminum heads Dual sump oil pan 770 cfm carburetor Edelbrock single plane intake Forged pistons, 4340 forged crankshaft, 4340 H-Beam rods Tru-Trac FEAD with P/S & alternator Ron Davis radiator & oil cooler MSD 8207 street blaster & MSD 8595 Pro billet distributor https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c3-main-4.jpg Roush 427R Polished engine... Roush 427R Polished engine: 427 cid / 550 hp / 535 ft-lb Ported aluminum heads Dual sump oil pan 770 cfm carburetor Edelbrock single plane intake Forged pistons, 4340 forged crankshaft, 4340 H-Beam rods Tru-Trac FEAD with P/S & alternator Ron Davis radiator & oil cooler MSD 8207 street blaster & MSD 8595 Pro billet distributor https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c3-main-5.jpg Roush 427R Polished engine... Roush 427R Polished engine: 427 cid / 550 hp / 535 ft-lb Ported aluminum heads Dual sump oil pan 770 cfm carburetor Edelbrock single plane intake Forged pistons, 4340 forged crankshaft, 4340 H-Beam rods Tru-Trac FEAD with P/S & alternator Ron Davis radiator & oil cooler MSD 8207 street blaster & MSD 8595 Pro billet distributor https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c3-main-6.jpg Roush 427R Polished engine... Roush 427R Polished engine: 427 cid / 550 hp / 535 ft-lb Ported aluminum heads Dual sump oil pan 770 cfm carburetor Edelbrock single plane intake Forged pistons, 4340 forged crankshaft, 4340 H-Beam rods Tru-Trac FEAD with P/S & alternator Ron Davis radiator & oil cooler MSD 8207 street blaster & MSD 8595 Pro billet distributor https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c3-main-7.jpg Tremec TKO 600 transmission... Tremec TKO 600 transmission: 5-Speed manual 1 1/8” 26-Spline shaft Roush 26-Spline clutch disk & pressure plate Lakewood Quick Time bell housing TKO cable to SBF Hydraulic conversion Fork Mustang 31-Spline 1330 yoke to drivetrain Custom aluminum drive shaft https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c3-main-8.jpg Tremec TKO 600 transmission... Tremec TKO 600 transmission: 5-Speed manual 1 1/8” 26-Spline shaft Roush 26-Spline clutch disk & pressure plate Lakewood Quick Time bell housing TKO cable to SBF Hydraulic conversion Fork Mustang 31-Spline 1330 yoke to drivetrain Custom aluminum drive shaft https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c3-main-9.jpg Tremec TKO 600 transmission... Tremec TKO 600 transmission: 5-Speed manual 1 1/8” 26-Spline shaft Roush 26-Spline clutch disk & pressure plate Lakewood Quick Time bell housing TKO cable to SBF Hydraulic conversion Fork Mustang 31-Spline 1330 yoke to drivetrain Custom aluminum drive shaft https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c3-main-10.jpg Winters V-8 Quick Change rear end.. Winters V-8 Quick Change rear end: Big bearing (Torino) Winters SR4503HR 6-Spline helical 3.48 to 4.11 GEARS Winters 31-Spline axel set https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c3-main-11.jpg Wilwood Brakes... Wilwood Brakes: Wilwood DynaPro6 piston front polished calipers BP20 pads 12” rotor X drilled and slotted with black coating Wilwood Forged Dynalite 4 piston rear polished calipers https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c3-main-12.jpg Wheels & Tires... Wheels & Tires: Budnik Four Thirty 5 x 4.50 1.0 FL polished 17 x 7 Front with Bridgestone Potenza RE-11 215/45R17 91W Budnik Four Thirty 5 x 4.50 1.0 FL polished 18 x 10 Rear with Bridgestone Potenza RE-11 275/40R18 99W https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c3-main-13.jpg Wheels & Tires... Wheels & Tires: Budnik Four Thirty 5 x 4.50 1.0 FL polished 17 x 7 Front with Bridgestone Potenza RE-11 215/45R17 91W Budnik Four Thirty 5 x 4.50 1.0 FL polished 18 x 10 Rear with Bridgestone Potenza RE-11 275/40R18 99W https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c3-main-14.jpg Custom TIG-welded manifolds and exhaust system... Custom TIG-welded manifolds and exhaust system: 1 3/4” primaries, equal-length headers; 4:1 Burns Collector; to 3” diameter SS tubing; to all stainless steel; Vibrant mufflers Side exit muffler bypass pipes with cockpit control https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c3-main-15.jpg Custom TIG-welded manifolds and exhaust system... Custom TIG-welded manifolds and exhaust system: 1 3/4” primaries, equal-length headers; 4:1 Burns Collector; to 3” diameter SS tubing; to all stainless steel; Vibrant mufflers Side exit muffler bypass pipes with cockpit control https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/32-deuce/32deuce-c3-main-16.jpg https://www.aidesign.com/work/1969-camaro 0.5 https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-1.jpg This car is a special model Camaro... This car is a special model Camaro – it’s a pace car with a unique paint scheme and interior scheme. As we discussed the project with our client, he wanted a restomod, but at the same time, we also agreed the end product should keep the look of the '69 pace car, and in general stay true to a 1969-era aesthetic, while integrating modern upgrades to the drivetrain and performance. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-2.jpg This car is a special model Camaro... This car is a special model Camaro – it’s a pace car with a unique paint scheme and interior scheme. As we discussed the project with our client, he wanted a restomod, but at the same time, we also agreed the end product should keep the look of the '69 pace car, and in general stay true to a 1969-era aesthetic, while integrating modern upgrades to the drivetrain and performance. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-3.jpg When our client first contacted us... When our client first contacted us about this project, he had found an original 1969 Camaro pace car, but it had been modified and was missing a lot of the original parts. Together we came up with a vision for restoring and re-imagining it. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-4.jpg The first major stage of the project... The first major stage of the project entailed most of the restomod work, replacing old 1969 parts with modern higher-performance versions while maintaining a '69 look – new engine and drivetrain, new chassis, suspension and brakes, and a lot of body work including a flat firewall, seat mounts on the interior floor, and new rear seat support. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-5.jpg The first major stage of the project... The first major stage of the project entailed most of the restomod work, replacing old 1969 parts with modern higher-performance versions while maintaining a '69 look – new engine and drivetrain, new chassis, suspension and brakes, and a lot of body work including a flat firewall, seat mounts on the interior floor, and new rear seat support. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-6.jpg In the engine bay, modifications included... In the engine bay, modifications included: flat firewall fabricated and grafted into place hidden custom wire harness and bulkhead connector/grommet hidden AC lines and bulkhead fittings, new Vintage Air modern HVAC system proper alternator/starter/battery wiring and multiple chassis-to-motor, chassis-to-battery, and chassis-to-chassis ground strapping modifications https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-7.jpg In the engine bay, modifications included... In the engine bay, modifications included: flat firewall fabricated and grafted into place hidden custom wire harness and bulkhead connector/grommet hidden AC lines and bulkhead fittings, new Vintage Air modern HVAC system proper alternator/starter/battery wiring and multiple chassis-to-motor, chassis-to-battery, and chassis-to-chassis ground strapping modifications https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-8.jpg Front Suspension details... Front Suspension details: DSE hydro-formed subframe for strength and stiffness DSE/JRI coilover shocks with “Detroit Tuned” valving coilover springs, “Detroit Tuned” power rack and pinion steering splined anti-roll bar with composite bushings, forged DSE spindle stamped cross members, tubular control arms, Torrington bearings https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-9.jpg Transmission... Transmission: Tremec T-56 Magnum manual 6-speed transmission Ram clutches: 80-2100 force 10.5 dual clutch new trans tunnel sheet metal fabricated and grafted in custom-length 3.5” diameter aluminum drive shaft from The Drive Shaft Shop https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-10.jpg Rear Suspension & Mini-Tub... Rear Suspension & Mini-Tub: DSE QUADRALink rear suspension, DSE exclusive no-bind Swivel-Link High durometer rubber bushings, no Heim joints to wear out and make noise long upper arms for pinion angle control, long panhard rod for lateral control improved anti-squat geometry, lower links offset inboard for added tire clearance DSE Mini-Tubs: inner wheel housings in 18-gauge steel to accommodate wider wheels https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-11.jpg In conjunction with the mini-tub... In conjunction with the mini-tub modifications, we needed to remove and preserve the triangular support panel making up the seat back firewall and trunk firewall. This triangular void is effectively lost space, so rather than simply re-installing this sheet metal assembly, we constructed a new version to house the E-Stopp emergency brake system and the subwoofers, which need air volume to work, with no lost space as a result. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-12.jpg In conjunction with the mini-tub... In conjunction with the mini-tub modifications, we needed to remove and preserve the triangular support panel making up the seat back firewall and trunk firewall. This triangular void is effectively lost space, so rather than simply re-installing this sheet metal assembly, we constructed a new version to house the E-Stopp emergency brake system and the subwoofers, which need air volume to work, with no lost space as a result. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-13.jpg Fuel & Exhaust... Fuel & Exhaust: Custom-fabricated exhaust in 3.25” x 2” oval stainless steel tubing, flex pipes installed up-stream Borla stainless steel mufflers, with custom exits through rear valance DSE Super Tank 1000 Series stainless steel customized fuel tank and pump tank modified with notches to accommodate client’s preferred exhaust outlet configuration gas door plate hanger spaced off the sheet metal and fitted with bosses and rubber bumpers https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-14.jpg Fuel & Exhaust... Fuel & Exhaust: Custom-fabricated exhaust in 3.25” x 2” oval stainless steel tubing, flex pipes installed up-stream Borla stainless steel mufflers, with custom exits through rear valance DSE Super Tank 1000 Series stainless steel customized fuel tank and pump tank modified with notches to accommodate client’s preferred exhaust outlet configuration gas door plate hanger spaced off the sheet metal and fitted with bosses and rubber bumpers https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-15.jpg The rear exhaust outlets... The rear exhaust outlets were carefully crafted into the rear valance with a set-back flange and a custom-made brass and chrome-plated garnish around outlet openings, fitted flush to the plane of the painted surface. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-16.jpg The rear exhaust outlets... The rear exhaust outlets were carefully crafted into the rear valance with a set-back flange and a custom-made brass and chrome-plated garnish around outlet openings, fitted flush to the plane of the painted surface. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-17.jpg In the trunk, we cut out an access panel... In the trunk, we cut out an access panel and later installed a custom-fitted Zeus fastened service panel for easy access to top-side fittings and senders. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-18.jpg In the interior sheet metal floor... In the interior sheet metal floor, we installed seat mounts for the late-model Cadillac seats we’d be installing with integral shoulder harnesses. Seats like this with the integral harnesses are built to a much stronger standard. As such, the floor itself not only had to accommodate the new seats, but also be reinforced in certain areas within the structure of the Camaro. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-19.jpg Brakes... Brakes: Baer front Extreme Plus 6-piston mono black caliper with 14” 2-piece SDZ rotor Baer rear Extreme Plus 6-piston mono black caliper with parking brake, 9” Torino bearing, 14” rotors DSE 9” dual diaphragm brake booster and cast-iron master cylinder kit with reservoir all calipers painted to match overall color scheme E-Stopp hidden electric emergency brake system with actuator in subwoofer enclosure https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-20.jpg Brakes... Brakes: Baer front Extreme Plus 6-piston mono black caliper with 14” 2-piece SDZ rotor Baer rear Extreme Plus 6-piston mono black caliper with parking brake, 9” Torino bearing, 14” rotors DSE 9” dual diaphragm brake booster and cast-iron master cylinder kit with reservoir all calipers painted to match overall color scheme E-Stopp hidden electric emergency brake system with actuator in subwoofer enclosure https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-21.jpg The front and rear bumpers... The front and rear bumpers were modified with tucked-in, body-hugging fasteners and subtle re-contouring. These were polished in copper after surface blocking from the plater, then we test-fitted to check fitment and make any adjustments, followed by nickel and heavy new chrome plating. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-22.jpg The front and rear bumpers... The front and rear bumpers were modified with tucked-in, body-hugging fasteners and subtle re-contouring. These were polished in copper after surface blocking from the plater, then we test-fitted to check fitment and make any adjustments, followed by nickel and heavy new chrome plating. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-23.jpg ...the early body restoration refinements... Also among the early body restoration refinements prior to painting the exterior, we performed body gap reductions at door-fender and door-quarter, a full rotisserie soda media blasted preparation, and black pebble guard finish under the chassis. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-24.jpg ...the early body restoration refinements... Also among the early body restoration refinements prior to painting the exterior, we performed body gap reductions at door-fender and door-quarter, a full rotisserie soda media blasted preparation, and black pebble guard finish under the chassis. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-25.jpg The paint job followed the original... The paint job followed the original 1969 Camaro Pace Car paint scheme, utilizing BASF products. We also fully painted the trunk and interior sheet metal in OEM color. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-26.jpg The paint job followed the original... The paint job followed the original 1969 Camaro Pace Car paint scheme, utilizing BASF products. We also fully painted the trunk and interior sheet metal in OEM color. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-27.jpg The paint job followed the original... The paint job followed the original 1969 Camaro Pace Car paint scheme, utilizing BASF products. We also fully painted the trunk and interior sheet metal in OEM color. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-28.jpg Throughout the engine bay... Throughout the engine bay, we strove for a tight and neat layout with no hyper-fabricated or hyper-hidden non-motor bits and components. We carefully curated hardware, fasteners and covers to extend a modern and clean appearance while retaining a certain degree of OEM look. The hood hardware shown here is by Ringbrothers. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-29.jpg Some additional engine details... Some additional engine details: LS7 7.0L aluminum block, 650HP, 565 lb/ft CNC LS7 Black Label 285cc cylinder heads Custom 3-bolt Core Cam DSE (Detroit Speed) stainless steel LS headers Mahle forged and coated pistons Bore x stroke: 4.125 x 4.000; 11.4:1 compression ratio https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-30.jpg Some additional engine details... Some additional engine details: LS7 7.0L aluminum block, 650HP, 565 lb/ft CNC LS7 Black Label 285cc cylinder heads Custom 3-bolt Core Cam DSE (Detroit Speed) stainless steel LS headers Mahle forged and coated pistons Bore x stroke: 4.125 x 4.000; 11.4:1 compression ratio https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-31.jpg ...Camaro LS engine cover was customized... A late model Camaro LS engine cover was customized completely with CAD-designed and 3D-printed extensions, filler, LS7-embossed tag, and faux hardware. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-32.jpg ...Camaro LS engine cover was customized... A late model Camaro LS engine cover was customized completely with CAD-designed and 3D-printed extensions, filler, LS7-embossed tag, and faux hardware. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-33.jpg ...a paint scheme for the engine cover... We designed a paint scheme for the engine cover to match the car’s exterior, and added quick-access magnetic mounts for ease of use. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-34.jpg ...a paint scheme for the engine cover... We designed a paint scheme for the engine cover to match the car’s exterior, and added quick-access magnetic mounts for ease of use. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-35.jpg ...garnishments to the original bright work... We also applied garnishments to the original bright work. And the VisionX LED headlamps have DSE auto open/close covers converted from OEM pneumatic to DC motor-driven control. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-36.jpg Marquez Design LED tail lamps... Marquez Design LED tail lamps include CNC’d aluminum garnish. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c1-main-37.jpg Wheels & Tires... Wheels & Tires: Wheel and ride height were thoroughly measured and adjusted for key clearances and dimensional wheel measurements for the wheel manufacturer to custom-build to our specs American Racing VN327 Rally Wheels, fully polished Fronts: 18” x 10” with 6” BS & 5” FS, fitted with Toyo Proxes R888 275/35/ZR18 99Y rubber Rears: 18” x 12” with 5.75” BS & 7.25” FS, fitted with Toyo Proxes R888 335/30/ZR18 102Y rubber https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-1.jpg ...one of our initial modifications... As mentioned earlier, one of our initial modifications involved recreating the triangular support panel making up the seat back firewall and trunk firewall. Repurposing this void of space, we designed our custom version to house the emergency brake system and allow sufficient air volume to house the subwoofer system. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-2.jpg ...one of our initial modifications... As mentioned earlier, one of our initial modifications involved recreating the triangular support panel making up the seat back firewall and trunk firewall. Repurposing this void of space, we designed our custom version to house the emergency brake system and allow sufficient air volume to house the subwoofer system. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-3.jpg ...a port-tuned enclosure for the subwoofer... We custom-fabricated a port-tuned enclosure for the subwoofer drivers. With a final interior air space volume of approximately 1 cubic foot net volume after speaker and port (and E-Stopp) displacements, we decided on a 35-hertz tuning frequency with a commensurate sized port. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-4.jpg ...a port-tuned enclosure for the subwoofer... We custom-fabricated a port-tuned enclosure for the subwoofer drivers. With a final interior air space volume of approximately 1 cubic foot net volume after speaker and port (and E-Stopp) displacements, we decided on a 35-hertz tuning frequency with a commensurate sized port. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-5.jpg The JL Audio 8W3v3-4 subwoofer drivers... The JL Audio 8W3v3-4 subwoofer drivers connect to a network of 4 JL Audio amplifiers and Dynaudio speakers. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-6.jpg The JL Audio 8W3v3-4 subwoofer drivers... The JL Audio 8W3v3-4 subwoofer drivers connect to a network of 4 JL Audio amplifiers and Dynaudio speakers. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-7.jpg ...the subwoofer enclosure is completely hidden... With the rear seats now installed, the subwoofer enclosure is completely hidden while allowing sufficient air volume for optimal audio. It’s an ideal utilization of what was otherwise a non-functional void of space. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-8.jpg ...modified late-model Cadillac CTS chairs... For the seating, we significantly modified late-model Cadillac CTS chairs, converting the headrests to be one single piece with the rest of the seat modeled after a racing-style chair. We upholstered the seating in a combination of orange leather and orange-and-black houndstooth, in keeping with the original 1969 OEM upholstery scheme. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-9.jpg ...modified late-model Cadillac CTS chairs... For the seating, we significantly modified late-model Cadillac CTS chairs, converting the headrests to be one single piece with the rest of the seat modeled after a racing-style chair. We upholstered the seating in a combination of orange leather and orange-and-black houndstooth, in keeping with the original 1969 OEM upholstery scheme. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-10.jpg ...modified late-model Cadillac CTS chairs... For the seating, we significantly modified late-model Cadillac CTS chairs, converting the headrests to be one single piece with the rest of the seat modeled after a racing-style chair. We upholstered the seating in a combination of orange leather and orange-and-black houndstooth, in keeping with the original 1969 OEM upholstery scheme. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-11.jpg ...3-point belt harnesses for added safety... For the seatbelts, we installed 3-point belt harnesses for added safety, and designed custom seatbelt caps that we CAD-modeled and 3D-printed. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-12.jpg ...3-point belt harnesses for added safety... For the seatbelts, we installed 3-point belt harnesses for added safety, and designed custom seatbelt caps that we CAD-modeled and 3D-printed. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-13.jpg The seats also include modern controls... The seats also include modern controls, heat and lumbar. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-14.jpg ...we installed Dynaudio midrange midwoofers... In the doors, after painstakingly installing automatic window roll-ups and central locking, we installed Dynaudio midrange midwoofers (MW162 in the front, MW152 for the rear seating) and MD102 tweeters front and rear. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-15.jpg ...we installed Dynaudio midrange midwoofers... In the doors, after painstakingly installing automatic window roll-ups and central locking, we installed Dynaudio midrange midwoofers (MW162 in the front, MW152 for the rear seating) and MD102 tweeters front and rear. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-16.jpg For the door panels... For the door panels, though we started with off-the-shelf custom fiberglass door trim panels, we made significant further modifications, including new contouring to meet the dashboard perfectly, surface set-backs for carpet upholstery at the bottom, speaker orientations, and a mounting system, prior to upholstering in the same OEM-driven orange and black color scheme as the seating. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-17.jpg For the door panels... For the door panels, though we started with off-the-shelf custom fiberglass door trim panels, we made significant further modifications, including new contouring to meet the dashboard perfectly, surface set-backs for carpet upholstery at the bottom, speaker orientations, and a mounting system, prior to upholstering in the same OEM-driven orange and black color scheme as the seating. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-18.jpg For the door panels... For the door panels, though we started with off-the-shelf custom fiberglass door trim panels, we made significant further modifications, including new contouring to meet the dashboard perfectly, surface set-backs for carpet upholstery at the bottom, speaker orientations, and a mounting system, prior to upholstering in the same OEM-driven orange and black color scheme as the seating. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-19.jpg ...we custom-designed door pulls in CAD... Seating was still in progress while we were upholstering the doors, so we wanted to wait until we had the seats in place before determining the exact locations for the door pulls. Then we custom-designed door pulls in CAD and 3D-printed them in-house. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-20.jpg ...we custom-designed door pulls in CAD... Seating was still in progress while we were upholstering the doors, so we wanted to wait until we had the seats in place before determining the exact locations for the door pulls. Then we custom-designed door pulls in CAD and 3D-printed them in-house. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-21.jpg ...carefully cut channels in the leather... Our highly skilled fabrication team then carefully cut channels in the leather and door trim for a perfect fit. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-22.jpg ...carefully cut channels in the leather... Our highly skilled fabrication team then carefully cut channels in the leather and door trim for a perfect fit. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-23.jpg The new door pulls were painted black... The new door pulls were painted black and installed to complete the doors. The doors were fitted with wire grommets and wiring for keyless entry, auto glass, and audio. The Audiovox keyless entry also provides remote trunk release. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c2-main-24.jpg The new door pulls were painted black... The new door pulls were painted black and installed to complete the doors. The doors were fitted with wire grommets and wiring for keyless entry, auto glass, and audio. The Audiovox keyless entry also provides remote trunk release. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-1.jpg The interior coachwork and trim work... The interior coachwork and trim work were entirely custom-made. Before fabricating the dashboard, we needed a clever solution for various antennae needs, including the rear-facing Escort radar sensor and GPS antennae for Escort and Sirius on the passenger side, and on the driver side, the AM/FM antenna within the woodwork of the dash cowl. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-2.jpg The interior coachwork and trim work... The interior coachwork and trim work were entirely custom-made. Before fabricating the dashboard, we needed a clever solution for various antennae needs, including the rear-facing Escort radar sensor and GPS antennae for Escort and Sirius on the passenger side, and on the driver side, the AM/FM antenna within the woodwork of the dash cowl. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-3.jpg The dashboard was custom-fabricated... The dashboard was custom-fabricated for a clean Spartan look inspired by the OEM '69 dash. We began by forming the initial shape in fiberglass. Then for the design of a custom hood on the driver side, we mocked up comps in cardboard and digital renderings prior to constructing it by hand. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-4.jpg The dashboard was custom-fabricated... The dashboard was custom-fabricated for a clean Spartan look inspired by the OEM '69 dash. We began by forming the initial shape in fiberglass. Then for the design of a custom hood on the driver side, we mocked up comps in cardboard and digital renderings prior to constructing it by hand. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-5.jpg ...traditional and modern techniques... This combination of traditional and modern techniques allowed us to explore and refine our ideas efficiently and then bring hand-crafted finesse to the final form and details. There are subtle arcs in the form of this hood, which were more difficult to build, but well worth their nuanced effect. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-6.jpg ...traditional and modern techniques... This combination of traditional and modern techniques allowed us to explore and refine our ideas efficiently and then bring hand-crafted finesse to the final form and details. There are subtle arcs in the form of this hood, which were more difficult to build, but well worth their nuanced effect. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-7.jpg ...traditional and modern techniques... This combination of traditional and modern techniques allowed us to explore and refine our ideas efficiently and then bring hand-crafted finesse to the final form and details. There are subtle arcs in the form of this hood, which were more difficult to build, but well worth their nuanced effect. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-8.jpg ...traditional and modern techniques... This combination of traditional and modern techniques allowed us to explore and refine our ideas efficiently and then bring hand-crafted finesse to the final form and details. There are subtle arcs in the form of this hood, which were more difficult to build, but well worth their nuanced effect. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-9.jpg The dash panel and hood... The dash panel and hood could be easily installed and removed as needed for making incremental adjustments in the design. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-10.jpg ...we designed a 2-part instrument panel... Within the driver side hood, we designed a 2-part instrument panel to house the dashboard gauges, various user-control switches, and the main Pioneer head unit for the audio system. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-10b.jpg ...we designed a 2-part instrument panel... Within the driver side hood, we designed a 2-part instrument panel to house the dashboard gauges, various user-control switches, and the main Pioneer head unit for the audio system. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-11.jpg ...we designed a 2-part instrument panel... Within the driver side hood, we designed a 2-part instrument panel to house the dashboard gauges, various user-control switches, and the main Pioneer head unit for the audio system. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-12.jpg ...panel parts were hand-fabricated... The main instrument panel parts were hand-fabricated in our wood and plastics shop, then smaller components were CAD-modeled and 3D-printed to be integrated within the panel. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-13.jpg ...panel parts were hand-fabricated... The main instrument panel parts were hand-fabricated in our wood and plastics shop, then smaller components were CAD-modeled and 3D-printed to be integrated within the panel. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-14.jpg Bezels were added... Bezels were added for some of the controls, and a strip of 3D-printed trim was added at the seam where the panels joined. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-15.jpg Bezels were added... Bezels were added for some of the controls, and a strip of 3D-printed trim was added at the seam where the panels joined. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-16.jpg We added contouring.. Another subtle but important detail in the dashboard fabrication was a narrow panel we added between the new custom dash and the windshield. We added contouring so this part could snugly meet the edge of the dash and then taper towards the windshield, and then we cut out corresponding defrost vents. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-17.jpg We added contouring.. Another subtle but important detail in the dashboard fabrication was a narrow panel we added between the new custom dash and the windshield. We added contouring so this part could snugly meet the edge of the dash and then taper towards the windshield, and then we cut out corresponding defrost vents. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-18.jpg ...finished in matte black Soft Touch. The instrument panel and corresponding parts were then finished in matte black Soft Touch. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-19.jpg ...custom designed a center console... While the dashboard fabrication was in progress, we also custom designed a center console for the shift boot, some additional switches, a smartphone caddy, and cup holders. The hull of this console and some of the upper deck were hand-fabricated in our wood and plastics shop. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-20.jpg ...custom designed a center console... While the dashboard fabrication was in progress, we also custom designed a center console for the shift boot, some additional switches, a smartphone caddy, and cup holders. The hull of this console and some of the upper deck were hand-fabricated in our wood and plastics shop. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-21.jpg ...pockets for the smartphone caddy... The top deck and pockets for the smartphone caddy and cup holders were then laid out in CAD software and printed on paper and cardboard so we could explore different layouts at exact scale in the vehicle prior to modeling and 3D-printing the deck. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-22.jpg ...pockets for the smartphone caddy... The top deck and pockets for the smartphone caddy and cup holders were then laid out in CAD software and printed on paper and cardboard so we could explore different layouts at exact scale in the vehicle prior to modeling and 3D-printing the deck. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-23.jpg ...3D-printed and assembled... When the deck was 3D-printed and assembled, it was finished in matching matte black Soft Touch. The switches are by Carling, which were customized and laser-etched in a project-specific font. The automatic window regulators are by Electric-Life. The stick shift hardware is by Ringbrothers. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-24.jpg ...3D-printed and assembled... When the deck was 3D-printed and assembled, it was finished in matching matte black Soft Touch. The switches are by Carling, which were customized and laser-etched in a project-specific font. The automatic window regulators are by Electric-Life. The stick shift hardware is by Ringbrothers. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-25.jpg The dash paneling and hood... The dash paneling and hood were upholstered in leather and installed. MAST motors ECM and harness run stealth through hidden firewall grommets. ECM and Sub breaker panel were fitted to a custom bracket under the dash. We used GXL primary wire throughout, with Molex and/or Deutsch connectors. RainGear window wiper motor assembly was converted to a 100% cowl type. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-26.jpg The dash paneling and hood... The dash paneling and hood were upholstered in leather and installed. MAST motors ECM and harness run stealth through hidden firewall grommets. ECM and Sub breaker panel were fitted to a custom bracket under the dash. We used GXL primary wire throughout, with Molex and/or Deutsch connectors. RainGear window wiper motor assembly was converted to a 100% cowl type. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-27.jpg For the Nardi 360mm steering wheel... For the Nardi 360mm steering wheel, specifically selected to complement the dashboard, we had the SS badge custom-made, and we further modified the Flaming River steering column to make it entirely black, right down to the key handle. The instrument gauges are Dakota Digital gauges adapted to the MAST engine harness, with appropriate sender changes, etc. The Pioneer main head unit connects to a JL Audio TwK-88 digital signal processor. And all multimedia and radar detector wiring was installed in harness bundles in same sleeving as body control harnesses. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-28.jpg For the Nardi 360mm steering wheel... For the Nardi 360mm steering wheel, specifically selected to complement the dashboard, we had the SS badge custom-made, and we further modified the Flaming River steering column to make it entirely black, right down to the key handle. The instrument gauges are Dakota Digital gauges adapted to the MAST engine harness, with appropriate sender changes, etc. The Pioneer main head unit connects to a JL Audio TwK-88 digital signal processor. And all multimedia and radar detector wiring was installed in harness bundles in same sleeving as body control harnesses. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-29.jpg The trunk is another area... The trunk is another area where we performed a lot of work. The '69 OEM trunk is rather bare-bones. We elevated it to match the level of detail and functionality in the rest of the car. It’s an ideal location for many electrical and audio components, and underneath the trunk’s sub floor is the access panel for the fuel tank’s top-side fittings and senders, and the Anderson connector for the jumper cable set. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-30.jpg In the trunk firewall... In the trunk firewall (opposite the rear seat back firewall where we installed the subwoofers), we installed four JL Audio amplifiers (three JL Audio XD400/4x2 amps and one JL Audio XD600/1x2 amp) and the Dynaudio X52 crossover network for the rear speakers. On the side walls of the trunk we installed fuses and relays. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-31.jpg The Bussman fuse/relay distribution... The Bussman fuse/relay distribution panels were meticulously pinned, mapped in a comprehensive Excel spreadsheet prior to fabrication, and labeled, then we created a laminated fuse and relay guide for the client. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-32.jpg The Bussman fuse/relay distribution... The Bussman fuse/relay distribution panels were meticulously pinned, mapped in a comprehensive Excel spreadsheet prior to fabrication, and labeled, then we created a laminated fuse and relay guide for the client. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-33.jpg We hand-fabricated panels... We hand-fabricated panels to house the amps and cover the sub-floor, as well as custom panels for the sides/corners and rear latch. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-34.jpg We hand-fabricated panels... We hand-fabricated panels to house the amps and cover the sub-floor, as well as custom panels for the sides/corners and rear latch. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-35.jpg The trunk panels were covered... The trunk panels were covered with durable Mercedes-Benz velour carpeting, and cutaways were integrated into the panels for easy access to the fuses and sub-floor panel. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-36.jpg The trunk panels were covered... The trunk panels were covered with durable Mercedes-Benz velour carpeting, and cutaways were integrated into the panels for easy access to the fuses and sub-floor panel. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-37.jpg The trunk panels were covered... The trunk panels were covered with durable Mercedes-Benz velour carpeting, and cutaways were integrated into the panels for easy access to the fuses and sub-floor panel. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-38.jpg The trunk panels were covered... The trunk panels were covered with durable Mercedes-Benz velour carpeting, and cutaways were integrated into the panels for easy access to the fuses and sub-floor panel. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-39.jpg The trunk panels were covered... The trunk panels were covered with durable Mercedes-Benz velour carpeting, and cutaways were integrated into the panels for easy access to the fuses and sub-floor panel. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-40.jpg The trunk panels were covered... The trunk panels were covered with durable Mercedes-Benz velour carpeting, and cutaways were integrated into the panels for easy access to the fuses and sub-floor panel. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-40b.jpg Where the hinges are located... Where the hinges are located in the trunk is a difficult junction for carpeting, so we constructed separate fittings, to further refine the appearance and create a more nicely defined opening for the Ringbrothers hinges. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/69-camaro/69camaro-c3-main-41.jpg https://www.aidesign.com/work/mk-71 0.5 https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-1.jpg When our client initially came to us... When our client initially came to us, the idea he had in mind was of a powerful, stealth reimagining of his Escalade. He also wanted to name it, so our first step on this project was brainstorming names together, resulting in MK-71, inspired in part by the Lockheed SR-71 Air Force aircraft. The project would then unfold with extensive custom work and rugged additions for an utterly formidable vehicle, ready for anything. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-2.jpg ...bed liner black-out finish to the body... One of our client’s first requests was a bed liner black-out finish to the body, primarily to transform the Escalade’s look. The biggest challenge with this was material thickness and then part-fitment afterwards, ensuring that tight-fitting pieces like the delicate window trims and seals would still fit correctly. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-3.jpg ...more complex than a standard re-paint... The choreography was also more complex than a standard re-paint. With the bed liner process, both the material and the application technique are unlike paint. The pebbly surface is prone to a grain-like direction being imprinted, so the direction of separate panels in relation to the applicator will dictate how homogenous the pebbling is across the entire car. Achieving consistent grain becomes the main concern in the hands of the applicator. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-4.jpg All Escalade chrome was stripped... All Escalade chrome was stripped and then re-painted – most in gloss black, some in matte black, and some in bed-liner black like the main body. From a technical standpoint, it can be challenging to prepare a chrome surface and apply paint with a proven application-formula to promote adhesion. And from a design standpoint too, it’s important to determine where to put which finish, such as gloss or matte. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-5.jpg All Escalade chrome was stripped... All Escalade chrome was stripped and then re-painted – most in gloss black, some in matte black, and some in bed-liner black like the main body. From a technical standpoint, it can be challenging to prepare a chrome surface and apply paint with a proven application-formula to promote adhesion. And from a design standpoint too, it’s important to determine where to put which finish, such as gloss or matte. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-6.jpg Off-road style tubular bumper guards... Off-road style tubular bumper guards were designed, fabricated and powder-coated in matte black. Their shape, bends and vectors had to dovetail with the sharp, faceted look of the Escalade’s design language. And, even more challenging, this set of bars needed to work with the driver assist system’s short and long range radar sensors, parking sensors, etc. This required test driving and adjusting to achieve the desired look without conflicting with those systems. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-8.jpg Below the grill... Below the grill, we placed narrow beam LED spot/driving lamps. We fabricated new flanged-sleeve-style housings and mounts in aluminum that were powder- coated in matte black. In between them was a new center panel in ABS plastic which covered the primary long range sensor for the adaptive cruise and other drive-assist systems. Behind the front grill, we placed infrared flood lamps in LED bar type. The client requested these to aid in improved night vision. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-10.jpg ...longer-reaching cornering lights... We also added more powerful and longer-reaching cornering lights. These were fitted to the side-facing portion of the front bumper skin, which wraps around just under the fender, abutting the wheel housing. We CAD-designed and 3D-printed a new flange-mount housing and appropriate fascia trim for these VisionX lamps. We shaped and positioned these to align with the Escalade design language and contour lines that interplay on the bumper and headlamp areas. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-11.jpg Additional brake lamps were installed... Additional brake lamps were installed, adding a strobe effect to the initial 3 seconds of brake-press. These were integrated into a custom-designed rear off-road bar, positioned lower than most brake lamps. This was a late add to the build, due to an observation made during test driving: motorists were often stopping short at our rear, perhaps mesmerized by MK-71’s ominous and utterly unique look! To mitigate that, we added these modifications. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-12.jpg Additional brake lamps were installed... Additional brake lamps were installed, adding a strobe effect to the initial 3 seconds of brake-press. These were integrated into a custom-designed rear off-road bar, positioned lower than most brake lamps. This was a late add to the build, due to an observation made during test driving: motorists were often stopping short at our rear, perhaps mesmerized by MK-71’s ominous and utterly unique look! To mitigate that, we added these modifications. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-13.jpg ...we installed strong reverse/rear floods... In place of the rear lower bumper’s OEM red reflectors, we installed strong reverse/rear floods – VisionX lightbars, flood beam. These were wired to come on in reverse, or via separate control switch, at will. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-14.jpg ...side-mounted flood lamp array... We also added a side-mounted flood lamp array: 4 VisionX floods, with custom-made and powder-coated swiveling mounts on two planes. Cuz ya never know when you’re out in the woods... https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-15.jpg ...side-mounted flood lamp array... We also added a side-mounted flood lamp array: 4 VisionX floods, with custom-made and powder-coated swiveling mounts on two planes. Cuz ya never know when you’re out in the woods... https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-16.jpg A hidden entry-light system... A hidden entry-light system was added to the undercarriage along each full side and at the rear cargo tail end, inspired by Brabus’ Rocket CLS of 2005. Installing these individual LEDs into the undercarriage, we needed to shield them from shining onto the deployed side step or being visible between the step and the car’s rocker panel. This required an elaborate sheet metal shroud which we custom-designed to block this unwanted exposure. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-17.jpg A hidden entry-light system... A hidden entry-light system was added to the undercarriage along each full side and at the rear cargo tail end, inspired by Brabus’ Rocket CLS of 2005. Installing these individual LEDs into the undercarriage, we needed to shield them from shining onto the deployed side step or being visible between the step and the car’s rocker panel. This required an elaborate sheet metal shroud which we custom-designed to block this unwanted exposure. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-17b.jpg A hidden entry-light system... A hidden entry-light system was added to the undercarriage along each full side and at the rear cargo tail end, inspired by Brabus’ Rocket CLS of 2005. Installing these individual LEDs into the undercarriage, we needed to shield them from shining onto the deployed side step or being visible between the step and the car’s rocker panel. This required an elaborate sheet metal shroud which we custom-designed to block this unwanted exposure. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-18.jpg We installed interior red reading lamps... We installed interior red reading lamps for each passenger, roof-mounted in a CAD-designed, 3D-printed assembly, with surface mount, small rocker switch for control, and exposed fasteners, in an intentionally military aesthetic. We also added interior floor lighting with hidden fixtures throughout under-seat areas, under-dash, and in rear cargo, also in red for a soft glow, as red light provides sufficient task light with less impairment to night vision. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-19.jpg We also fitted automatic lighting... We also fitted automatic lighting into the interior storage compartments, consoles, and in the cargo area. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-20.jpg We also fitted automatic lighting... We also fitted automatic lighting into the interior storage compartments, consoles, and in the cargo area. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-21.jpg ...emergency response equipment... Another request from the client was the installation of emergency response equipment, controlled by a Whelen light and siren control unit, with a main processor and distribution hub hidden and mounted in the rear of the truck, and a hand-held controller with microphone, fitted in place of the OEM GM wireless cell phone charger. This controller was fitted to a 3D-printed replacement insert to the console, which we had originally developed for our E45 project. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-22.jpg ...8 strobe lamps were hidden... In the front grill, 8 strobe lamps were hidden inside – 4 dual color white/yellow, 4 dual red/blue. These were special-ordered with smoked lenses and black mounts to be less noticeable. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-23.jpg ...8 strobe lamps were hidden... In the front grill, 8 strobe lamps were hidden inside – 4 dual color white/yellow, 4 dual red/blue. These were special-ordered with smoked lenses and black mounts to be less noticeable. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-24.jpg We developed the front bumper... We developed the front bumper and grill assembly early in the project, mindful of the full population of elements that would eventually be installed: 12 strobe lamps, a camera, Stinger radar pieces, new cornering lights, driving lights, etc. It’s a fully integrated assembly that can be removed in one piece, including OEM wires with their own means of service, a large disconnect plug, and substantial new wiring, all in a manner that can be serviceable – no small task, this was a mission. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-25.jpg We developed the front bumper... We developed the front bumper and grill assembly early in the project, mindful of the full population of elements that would eventually be installed: 12 strobe lamps, a camera, Stinger radar pieces, new cornering lights, driving lights, etc. It’s a fully integrated assembly that can be removed in one piece, including OEM wires with their own means of service, a large disconnect plug, and substantial new wiring, all in a manner that can be serviceable – no small task, this was a mission. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-26.jpg 4 strobe lamps were custom-mounted... 4 strobe lamps were custom-mounted at the tailgate window overhang in the wiper shroud area in the same dual-color combos as the front grill strobes. Here, we carved out recesses and fabricated stylized smoked lenses at either end, stealth until you turn them on. And behind the rear glass, 8 strobe lamps were hidden, 4 on each side, in the same color ratio. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-27.jpg 4 strobe lamps were custom-mounted... 4 strobe lamps were custom-mounted at the tailgate window overhang in the wiper shroud area in the same dual-color combos as the front grill strobes. Here, we carved out recesses and fabricated stylized smoked lenses at either end, stealth until you turn them on. And behind the rear glass, 8 strobe lamps were hidden, 4 on each side, in the same color ratio. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-27b.jpg 4 strobe lamps were custom-mounted... 4 strobe lamps were custom-mounted at the tailgate window overhang in the wiper shroud area in the same dual-color combos as the front grill strobes. Here, we carved out recesses and fabricated stylized smoked lenses at either end, stealth until you turn them on. And behind the rear glass, 8 strobe lamps were hidden, 4 on each side, in the same color ratio. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-28.jpg ...we added specialized LED bulbs... Also in front, at the lower OEM fog lamps, we added specialized LED bulbs referred to as hide-away strobes, fitted into an existing OEM lens, occupying the same housing as the OEM light. All of the VisionX lighting at lower front under grill, side floods, and reverse/rear facing lamps were tapped with a second custom circuit with the option to drive them as strobe lamps – quite a spectacle. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-29.jpg The Whelen standard siren... The Whelen standard siren and Whelen Rumbler effectively act as a subwoofer for the siren speaker system. These were fitted to the undercarriage between the motor and bumper. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-30.jpg ...included additional physical gear... The client’s Emergency Response System included additional physical gear: ResQme glass/belt breakers for each passenger were installed in convenient-to-reach CAD-modeled and 3D-printed receptacles. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-31.jpg ...included additional physical gear... The client’s Emergency Response System included additional physical gear: ResQme glass/belt breakers for each passenger were installed in convenient-to-reach CAD-modeled and 3D-printed receptacles. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-32.jpg A fire extinguisher was fitted... A fire extinguisher was fitted to the forward base of the driver’s seat, and a massive SureFire Dominator LED flashlight was fitted to the passenger seat, with a duplicate flashlight in the cargo area, both with custom CAD- modeled and 3D-printed mounts. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-33.jpg A fire extinguisher was fitted... A fire extinguisher was fitted to the forward base of the driver’s seat, and a massive SureFire Dominator LED flashlight was fitted to the passenger seat, with a duplicate flashlight in the cargo area, both with custom CAD- modeled and 3D-printed mounts. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-34.jpg A fire extinguisher was fitted... A fire extinguisher was fitted to the forward base of the driver’s seat, and a massive SureFire Dominator LED flashlight was fitted to the passenger seat, with a duplicate flashlight in the cargo area, both with custom CAD- modeled and 3D-printed mounts. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-35.jpg ...first aid, rope, tools, you name it... A lot of additional gear was stocked – first aid, rope, tools, you name it. By the end of this project, with all of the emergency features installed, MK-71 is essentially an emergency response vehicle in and of itself. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-36.jpg The client also requested train horns... The client also requested train horns. We installed Kleinn horns with a 5 gallon air tank and 3 trumpets. Due to their size, and with limited space, we fabricated brackets in steel, fitted to the undercarriage, with the air tank under the front bumper and the trumpets in back. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-37.jpg We removed the OEM air diverter... We removed the OEM air diverter plate and constructed a new plate to shroud the tank, with access holes to service the valve and petcock, followed by fanatical plumbing of all lines to prevent leaks. We fitted a stainless steel air service coupler beside the trailer hitch, placed the compressor on a new bracket in the engine bay, and designed a toggle switch and circuitry so the steering wheel horn can activate either the OEM horn or the train horn. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c1-main-38.jpg We removed the OEM air diverter... We removed the OEM air diverter plate and constructed a new plate to shroud the tank, with access holes to service the valve and petcock, followed by fanatical plumbing of all lines to prevent leaks. We fitted a stainless steel air service coupler beside the trailer hitch, placed the compressor on a new bracket in the engine bay, and designed a toggle switch and circuitry so the steering wheel horn can activate either the OEM horn or the train horn. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c2-main-1.jpg MK-71’s audio system was informed... MK-71’s audio system was informed by our technology from E45 . MK-71’s system was designed for predominantly Hip-hop/Rap listening, with Spotify as its primary source. Source #1 was the Cadillac Cue system fitted with NAV-TV’s Video Override module, designed to bypass all Cadillac processing of audio signal, to enable the routing of an un-processed, full range, ‘native source’ digital signal. Source #2 was our client’s iPhone X, sent through a specialized digital transport to output the ‘native source’ digital signal. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c2-main-2.jpg ...special compact high-fidelity... Both sources were routed to a special compact high-fidelity Pre Amplifier and Digital-to-Analog converter – one unit, both tasks. This unit was positioned to fall-to-hand for the driver in the center console as it would be his volume control for the stereo system. He can choose either source from its control panel. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c2-main-3.jpg ...solid-state electronic crossover... From the DAC Pre Amp, the signal routes to our custom, built-to-spec, solid-state electronic crossover. Off-the-shelf ‘Car Audio’ pre-amp products do not compare and would squelch the gains – it’d be like going backwards. Ours was designed with our DAC Pre Amp and Power Amps in mind – same approach as in E45, but solid-state here vs. tube. We installed custom-made Class A/B Tru Technologies Amplifiers, Billet Series, with a full upgraded suite of the finest capacitors and op-amps across the PC board, for astounding fidelity and musicality. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c2-main-4.jpg For the 12W7 subwoofers from JL Audio... For the 12W7 subwoofers from JL Audio, we built two separate slot-ported and slot-loaded down-firing enclosures, with 26mm baltic birch plywood construction and 1/4” welded steel mounts to attach these directly to the chassis. These enclosures were shaped with large radius edges and T-Nut bosses for additional interior parts to bolt to the enclosures. These were bed-lined in the same black as the Escalade’s body. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c2-main-5.jpg For the 12W7 subwoofers from JL Audio... For the 12W7 subwoofers from JL Audio, we built two separate slot-ported and slot-loaded down-firing enclosures, with 26mm baltic birch plywood construction and 1/4” welded steel mounts to attach these directly to the chassis. These enclosures were shaped with large radius edges and T-Nut bosses for additional interior parts to bolt to the enclosures. These were bed-lined in the same black as the Escalade’s body. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c2-main-6.jpg For the 12W7 subwoofers from JL Audio... For the 12W7 subwoofers from JL Audio, we built two separate slot-ported and slot-loaded down-firing enclosures, with 26mm baltic birch plywood construction and 1/4” welded steel mounts to attach these directly to the chassis. These enclosures were shaped with large radius edges and T-Nut bosses for additional interior parts to bolt to the enclosures. These were bed-lined in the same black as the Escalade’s body. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c2-main-7.jpg The amplifiers were stacked vertically... The amplifiers were stacked vertically via stand-offs and clever fastening. The crossover, which is quite large, was attached to this as well. The assembly was fitted between the two subwoofer enclosures. The assembly included a welded steel frame and welded steel viewing grills – for heat dissipation and convection, for aesthetics, and for toughness, so cargo could not contact the assembly. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c2-main-8.jpg ...Morel Elate component speakers... We chose with our client to keep the visible OEM speaker grills as-is. Morel Elate component speakers were used throughout, with as large as a 9” midwoofer in the front doors on a special baffle. We made additional noise-deadening modifications throughout MK-71 to mitigate road noise, vibration, and the affects of low frequency reinforcement in the audio system from resonating paneling and surfaces. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c2-main-9.jpg We used materials which address... We used materials which address particular frequency ranges, applied to broad surfaces like door and side trim panels, the roof, and sheet metal. We applied specialized felt tapes to overlapping interior trim edges, to isolate contact of plastic to plastic, reducing noise even further. As a result, the pulse of the bass has a tight crispness as it is not followed by the buzz of some part moving – this cannot be understated as it directly speaks to the result. Car audio is very different from home audio. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c2-main-10.jpg This audio system is extremely powerful... This audio system is extremely powerful. The music source is very high resolution with superb D/A conversion. The result is powerful, attacking, dynamic and crisp music reproduction, with headroom galore. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c2-main-11.jpg ...Uniden Bearcat Trunk Tracker... We used a vintage Uniden Bearcat Trunk Tracker IV BCD996XT scanner with full remote head (RH-96) and control panel. First we sent this to a specialist for a full check and to program various area frequencies our client wanted to pick up – this was a key step. The scanner main unit was fitted inside the main center console compartment on a simple bracket, so it could be removed easily if re-programming was needed. A dedicated NMO mount scanner antenna was fitted to the roof for max reception. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c2-main-12.jpg The control head was positioned... The control head was positioned in place of the OEM Cadillac Cue’s CD player slot in the lower section of the instrument panel center stack. The CD player was painstakingly relocated to the rear of the center console, with appropriate new trimmings and wire harnesses. A new panel was created to fit the Uniden control into the void left by the CD player. This was CAD-modeled, 3D-printed and prepared in a high-gloss black paint like the IP’s other pieces. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c2-main-13.jpg Another item we installed... Another item we installed was a cellular booster. A must for fringe use of a cell phone in a car, this device is essentially a cellular amplifier. Attached to it, there is an interior antenna, mounted extremely close to the phone, and an exterior antenna – in this case, a through-mounted NMO roof antenna – positioned away from the interior antenna. This is a full duplex system, so transmit and receive are both boosted. Installed correctly, these work really well to extend range and prevent dropped calls. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c2-main-13b.jpg ...3 antenna locations on the roof... There are three antenna locations on the roof: the cell booster antenna at driver-side front, the scanner antenna at passenger-side front, and at driver-side rear there is a combo antenna containing two cellular antennae for modem and a GPS antenna for the FLIR. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c2-main-14.jpg The DVR system uses Enterprise class... The DVR system uses Enterprise class system hardware from Axis with 5 cameras plus integration of FLIR video feed. Cameras are at the tailgate, front grill, left and right C-pillars for side coverage, and the cockpit. All sensors are Axis and configurable. The DVR can record up to 2.5TBs of data. The FLIR and a microphone feed from the cockpit. Recordings can be viewed within the Axis app, as live video or history. If MK-71 is on and running, connected to its WAN, data can be viewed anywhere in the world where there’s internet. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c2-main-15.jpg MK-71’s network consists of... MK-71’s network consists of Pepwave modem and Enterprise class LAN and WAN, utilizing gigabit for LAN, and 802.11ac/a/b/g/n 1166Mbps 2x2 MIMO for WIFI, plus purpose-built roof antennas to move the data without missing a beat. The system is capable of having a full multi-site mesh VPN, leveraging 2 SIM cards for different carriers. An IP Video encoder converts FLIR composite video to networkable stream. This robust, high bandwidth system can support Spotify, media downloads, DVR system, etc. WIFI is fast! https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-1.jpg ...we installed a genuine FLIR Talon... On the roof, we installed a genuine FLIR Talon imaging system, a curved wide flood LED lamp from Putco, and a genuine Larsen mil-spec search light with white and infrared lighting heads, on-the-fly selection, and joystick control, 360 degrees side-to-side and 180 degrees of inclination. These all required significant design and fabrication work. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-2.jpg ...required that we delete the sunroof... The FLIR Turret, Larsen search light and Putco light bar required that we delete the sunroof. To house and position these elements, we designed a new fixture to fit into the sunroof opening, with a drainage system for water, utilizing the sunroof plumbing. This structure also considered weight, wind load, aesthetics, minimum overall vehicle height, enduring finishes, serviceability, and very important FLIR cable routing and weather proofing. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-3.jpg ...required that we delete the sunroof... The FLIR Turret, Larsen search light and Putco light bar required that we delete the sunroof. To house and position these elements, we designed a new fixture to fit into the sunroof opening, with a drainage system for water, utilizing the sunroof plumbing. This structure also considered weight, wind load, aesthetics, minimum overall vehicle height, enduring finishes, serviceability, and very important FLIR cable routing and weather proofing. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-4.jpg ...required that we delete the sunroof... The FLIR Turret, Larsen search light and Putco light bar required that we delete the sunroof. To house and position these elements, we designed a new fixture to fit into the sunroof opening, with a drainage system for water, utilizing the sunroof plumbing. This structure also considered weight, wind load, aesthetics, minimum overall vehicle height, enduring finishes, serviceability, and very important FLIR cable routing and weather proofing. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-5.jpg ...fiberglass, steel and aluminum... The assembly was made in fiberglass, steel and aluminum. Custom cable grommets were mocked up as bucks, cast for a mold, and rubber copies were pulled from the mold as our seals. These cables are the size of garden hoses! The Putco light bar was mounted to a steel wrap-around tube detail, enhancing the look of the turret assembly and adding balance and scale to the entire roof apparatus. And we CAD-modeled and 3D-printed MK-71 tags for both mount-ends. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-6.jpg ...fiberglass, steel and aluminum... The assembly was made in fiberglass, steel and aluminum. Custom cable grommets were mocked up as bucks, cast for a mold, and rubber copies were pulled from the mold as our seals. These cables are the size of garden hoses! The Putco light bar was mounted to a steel wrap-around tube detail, enhancing the look of the turret assembly and adding balance and scale to the entire roof apparatus. And we CAD-modeled and 3D-printed MK-71 tags for both mount-ends. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-7.jpg ...fiberglass, steel and aluminum... The assembly was made in fiberglass, steel and aluminum. Custom cable grommets were mocked up as bucks, cast for a mold, and rubber copies were pulled from the mold as our seals. These cables are the size of garden hoses! The Putco light bar was mounted to a steel wrap-around tube detail, enhancing the look of the turret assembly and adding balance and scale to the entire roof apparatus. And we CAD-modeled and 3D-printed MK-71 tags for both mount-ends. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-8.jpg The FLIR control stick... The FLIR control stick was mounted into the center console with a customized friction-bearing action, allowing the driver to rest the stalk within a roughly 20-degree range, so that depending upon his hunch in his seat, it would be comfortable. This action was smooth, satisfying, tight, and required a very strong steel assembly to be designed, fabricated and bolted firmly to the chassis. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-9.jpg We also had to fit the Benchmark Media... We also had to fit the Benchmark Media DAC at the rear of the console, where it falls closest to hand. We fit the Larsen searchlight joystick here as well. OEM cup holders were removed, re-oriented, and re-installed. We CAD-modeled and 3D-printed a small change cup just in front of the FLIR joystick (JCU). The DAC was mounted firmly to the JCU’s steel bearing assembly. We designed this new section with all of these parts in mind, and built it to be easily serviceable. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-10.jpg We also had to fit the Benchmark Media... We also had to fit the Benchmark Media DAC at the rear of the console, where it falls closest to hand. We fit the Larsen searchlight joystick here as well. OEM cup holders were removed, re-oriented, and re-installed. We CAD-modeled and 3D-printed a small change cup just in front of the FLIR joystick (JCU). The DAC was mounted firmly to the JCU’s steel bearing assembly. We designed this new section with all of these parts in mind, and built it to be easily serviceable. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-11.jpg We also had to fit the Benchmark Media... We also had to fit the Benchmark Media DAC at the rear of the console, where it falls closest to hand. We fit the Larsen searchlight joystick here as well. OEM cup holders were removed, re-oriented, and re-installed. We CAD-modeled and 3D-printed a small change cup just in front of the FLIR joystick (JCU). The DAC was mounted firmly to the JCU’s steel bearing assembly. We designed this new section with all of these parts in mind, and built it to be easily serviceable. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-12.jpg The CEU, the main control unit... The CEU, the main control unit of the FLIR Talon system, is a very large, robust, military-looking piece of equipment. The cables all ran to it, and the cables were huge! We had limited room in MK-71 for this, so we created an entirely new overhead storage assembly to hide and shroud this FLIR part. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-13.jpg ...dash-mounted viewing display... For the FLIR’s dash-mounted viewing display, we chose a FLIR-recommended military-grade video monitor. We mocked up different sizes in cardboard for client approval and 3D-printed a prototype to scale, then we devised a friction-hinged tumble mount for the monitor, to rotate directly out of the top of the dashboard with firm-feeling action and good resting position. The entire dash top was then re-upholstered in black leather. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-14.jpg ...dash-mounted viewing display... For the FLIR’s dash-mounted viewing display, we chose a FLIR-recommended military-grade video monitor. We mocked up different sizes in cardboard for client approval and 3D-printed a prototype to scale, then we devised a friction-hinged tumble mount for the monitor, to rotate directly out of the top of the dashboard with firm-feeling action and good resting position. The entire dash top was then re-upholstered in black leather. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-15.jpg ...dash-mounted viewing display... For the FLIR’s dash-mounted viewing display, we chose a FLIR-recommended military-grade video monitor. We mocked up different sizes in cardboard for client approval and 3D-printed a prototype to scale, then we devised a friction-hinged tumble mount for the monitor, to rotate directly out of the top of the dashboard with firm-feeling action and good resting position. The entire dash top was then re-upholstered in black leather. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-16.jpg ...dash-mounted viewing display... For the FLIR’s dash-mounted viewing display, we chose a FLIR-recommended military-grade video monitor. We mocked up different sizes in cardboard for client approval and 3D-printed a prototype to scale, then we devised a friction-hinged tumble mount for the monitor, to rotate directly out of the top of the dashboard with firm-feeling action and good resting position. The entire dash top was then re-upholstered in black leather. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-17.jpg The overhead console control panel... The overhead console control panel was another addition. In some ways this is the sickest part of the whole darn thing – it is in fact the GUI by which you operate a majority of these cool gadgets. The client wanted a military- style expression of these controls. He was Googling all sorts of aircraft switch panels, and we decided on mil-spec toggle switches with rubber half-boots. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-18.jpg The overhead console control panel... The overhead console control panel was another addition. In some ways this is the sickest part of the whole darn thing – it is in fact the GUI by which you operate a majority of these cool gadgets. The client wanted a military- style expression of these controls. He was Googling all sorts of aircraft switch panels, and we decided on mil-spec toggle switches with rubber half-boots. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-19.jpg The overhead console control panel... The overhead console control panel was another addition. In some ways this is the sickest part of the whole darn thing – it is in fact the GUI by which you operate a majority of these cool gadgets. The client wanted a military- style expression of these controls. He was Googling all sorts of aircraft switch panels, and we decided on mil-spec toggle switches with rubber half-boots. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-20.jpg The panel was an amalgam of the OEM... The panel was an amalgam of the OEM overhead panel and a new CAD- modeled and 3D-printed center section for the switch and label array. We designed back-lit labeling for each switch, each with individual LED bellows. Some switches were OEM functions converted over to work with toggles, and the rest were the new functions, primarily lighting and FLIR. The two parts were grafted together, finished, and mounted. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-21.jpg The panel was an amalgam of the OEM... The panel was an amalgam of the OEM overhead panel and a new CAD- modeled and 3D-printed center section for the switch and label array. We designed back-lit labeling for each switch, each with individual LED bellows. Some switches were OEM functions converted over to work with toggles, and the rest were the new functions, primarily lighting and FLIR. The two parts were grafted together, finished, and mounted. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-22.jpg The panel was an amalgam of the OEM... The panel was an amalgam of the OEM overhead panel and a new CAD- modeled and 3D-printed center section for the switch and label array. We designed back-lit labeling for each switch, each with individual LED bellows. Some switches were OEM functions converted over to work with toggles, and the rest were the new functions, primarily lighting and FLIR. The two parts were grafted together, finished, and mounted. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-23.jpg An additional display panel... An additional display panel was added to the highly modified sunroof shade cover, which was now an access panel to the rooftop FLIR assembly. This display readout was for subwoofer bass level and for passenger seat air-bag status. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-24.jpg An additional display panel... An additional display panel was added to the highly modified sunroof shade cover, which was now an access panel to the rooftop FLIR assembly. This display readout was for subwoofer bass level and for passenger seat air-bag status. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-25.jpg The Stinger radar system is elaborate... The Stinger radar system is elaborate, with 6 elements per front grill and rear tail areas, for laser detection and jamming, and 2 radar sensors, front and rear, respectively. At the rear corners, there was no good place for conventional installation of the laser head pairs, so we carved out a location to CAD-design and 3D-print new housings, in keeping with MK-71 design language, at the outboard ends of the cargo threshold plate. Remaining sensors were mounted conventionally and carefully installed. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-26.jpg The Stinger radar system is elaborate... The Stinger radar system is elaborate, with 6 elements per front grill and rear tail areas, for laser detection and jamming, and 2 radar sensors, front and rear, respectively. At the rear corners, there was no good place for conventional installation of the laser head pairs, so we carved out a location to CAD-design and 3D-print new housings, in keeping with MK-71 design language, at the outboard ends of the cargo threshold plate. Remaining sensors were mounted conventionally and carefully installed. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-27.jpg The Stinger display was another matter. The Stinger display was another matter. We decided to integrate it with the rearview mirror assembly. We CAD-modeled and 3D-printed an entirely new assembly and it totally worked! https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-28.jpg The Stinger display was another matter. The Stinger display was another matter. We decided to integrate it with the rearview mirror assembly. We CAD-modeled and 3D-printed an entirely new assembly and it totally worked! https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-29.jpg ...there was so much more involved... It bears mentioning that there was so much more involved in the power distribution, the fusing, the many individual wire harnesses, connections, disconnect plugs installed throughout, and various other considerations to allow for easy access and removal of parts for service. In MK-71, for anything electric and new, we devised its own separate system, independent from Cadillac’s, but just as carefully engineered and assembled. These diagrams show just some of these intricate systems. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-30.jpg ...there was so much more involved... It bears mentioning that there was so much more involved in the power distribution, the fusing, the many individual wire harnesses, connections, disconnect plugs installed throughout, and various other considerations to allow for easy access and removal of parts for service. In MK-71, for anything electric and new, we devised its own separate system, independent from Cadillac’s, but just as carefully engineered and assembled. These diagrams show just some of these intricate systems. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-31.jpg ...there was so much more involved... It bears mentioning that there was so much more involved in the power distribution, the fusing, the many individual wire harnesses, connections, disconnect plugs installed throughout, and various other considerations to allow for easy access and removal of parts for service. In MK-71, for anything electric and new, we devised its own separate system, independent from Cadillac’s, but just as carefully engineered and assembled. These diagrams show just some of these intricate systems. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-32.jpg ...there was so much more involved... It bears mentioning that there was so much more involved in the power distribution, the fusing, the many individual wire harnesses, connections, disconnect plugs installed throughout, and various other considerations to allow for easy access and removal of parts for service. In MK-71, for anything electric and new, we devised its own separate system, independent from Cadillac’s, but just as carefully engineered and assembled. These diagrams show just some of these intricate systems. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-33.jpg ...there was so much more involved... It bears mentioning that there was so much more involved in the power distribution, the fusing, the many individual wire harnesses, connections, disconnect plugs installed throughout, and various other considerations to allow for easy access and removal of parts for service. In MK-71, for anything electric and new, we devised its own separate system, independent from Cadillac’s, but just as carefully engineered and assembled. These diagrams show just some of these intricate systems. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-34.jpg ...there was so much more involved... It bears mentioning that there was so much more involved in the power distribution, the fusing, the many individual wire harnesses, connections, disconnect plugs installed throughout, and various other considerations to allow for easy access and removal of parts for service. In MK-71, for anything electric and new, we devised its own separate system, independent from Cadillac’s, but just as carefully engineered and assembled. These diagrams show just some of these intricate systems. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-35.jpg ...there was so much more involved... It bears mentioning that there was so much more involved in the power distribution, the fusing, the many individual wire harnesses, connections, disconnect plugs installed throughout, and various other considerations to allow for easy access and removal of parts for service. In MK-71, for anything electric and new, we devised its own separate system, independent from Cadillac’s, but just as carefully engineered and assembled. These diagrams show just some of these intricate systems. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-36.jpg ...there was so much more involved... It bears mentioning that there was so much more involved in the power distribution, the fusing, the many individual wire harnesses, connections, disconnect plugs installed throughout, and various other considerations to allow for easy access and removal of parts for service. In MK-71, for anything electric and new, we devised its own separate system, independent from Cadillac’s, but just as carefully engineered and assembled. These diagrams show just some of these intricate systems. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-37.jpg ...there was so much more involved... It bears mentioning that there was so much more involved in the power distribution, the fusing, the many individual wire harnesses, connections, disconnect plugs installed throughout, and various other considerations to allow for easy access and removal of parts for service. In MK-71, for anything electric and new, we devised its own separate system, independent from Cadillac’s, but just as carefully engineered and assembled. These diagrams show just some of these intricate systems. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c3-main-38.jpg ...there was so much more involved... It bears mentioning that there was so much more involved in the power distribution, the fusing, the many individual wire harnesses, connections, disconnect plugs installed throughout, and various other considerations to allow for easy access and removal of parts for service. In MK-71, for anything electric and new, we devised its own separate system, independent from Cadillac’s, but just as carefully engineered and assembled. These diagrams show just some of these intricate systems. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-1.jpg VIP chairs were added... VIP chairs were added in place of the OEM seating. These are front full-feature bucket chairs. The floor sheet metal and structure were modified to place these 7” further back than the OEM chairs. Range Rover adjustable armrests were added to these chairs’ inboard sides. We CAD-designed a custom center console. And Mercedes Velour carpet was installed throughout, with custom floor mats. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-2.jpg VIP chairs were added... VIP chairs were added in place of the OEM seating. These are front full-feature bucket chairs. The floor sheet metal and structure were modified to place these 7” further back than the OEM chairs. Range Rover adjustable armrests were added to these chairs’ inboard sides. We CAD-designed a custom center console. And Mercedes Velour carpet was installed throughout, with custom floor mats. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-3.jpg The rear center console... The rear center console, upholstered in leather and carpet with gloss piano black finishes, connects to the amplifier/subwoofer assembly behind it. It includes a large primary storage space with a main lid and a slide-away cupholder assembly. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-4.jpg The rear center console... The rear center console, upholstered in leather and carpet with gloss piano black finishes, connects to the amplifier/subwoofer assembly behind it. It includes a large primary storage space with a main lid and a slide-away cupholder assembly. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-5.jpg This console was very important... This console was very important to our client, and he worked closely with us on its design. The cupholder has an internal latch, with a corresponding jamb on the lid, and combination cam-lock hardware. A smaller push-to-release access door and pocket are located at the rear high point of the console, and there are various ports and lights. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-6.jpg This console was very important... This console was very important to our client, and he worked closely with us on its design. The cupholder has an internal latch, with a corresponding jamb on the lid, and combination cam-lock hardware. A smaller push-to-release access door and pocket are located at the rear high point of the console, and there are various ports and lights. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-7.jpg ...we commissioned Truck Vault... In the cargo area, we commissioned Truck Vault to produce a custom vault for the floor section. We fabricated a custom steel threshold plate for the vault floor, which met up with and contoured precisely with the closed tailgate’s trim panel. This was done so the client’s dogs would not get a leg stuck between. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-8.jpg ...we commissioned Truck Vault... In the cargo area, we commissioned Truck Vault to produce a custom vault for the floor section. We fabricated a custom steel threshold plate for the vault floor, which met up with and contoured precisely with the closed tailgate’s trim panel. This was done so the client’s dogs would not get a leg stuck between. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-9.jpg We fabricated side compartments... We fabricated side compartments which dovetailed into the subwoofer assembly and D pillars, with polished black acrylic details, red lighting, bed-lined finish, and the same combination cam-lock hardware as the rear center console. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-10.jpg We fabricated side compartments... We fabricated side compartments which dovetailed into the subwoofer assembly and D pillars, with polished black acrylic details, red lighting, bed-lined finish, and the same combination cam-lock hardware as the rear center console. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-11.jpg We fabricated side compartments... We fabricated side compartments which dovetailed into the subwoofer assembly and D pillars, with polished black acrylic details, red lighting, bed-lined finish, and the same combination cam-lock hardware as the rear center console. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-12.jpg We fabricated side compartments... We fabricated side compartments which dovetailed into the subwoofer assembly and D pillars, with polished black acrylic details, red lighting, bed-lined finish, and the same combination cam-lock hardware as the rear center console. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-13.jpg ...large overhead storage assembly... We also constructed a large overhead storage assembly with two compartments, each with the same combination cam-lock hardware used throughout MK-71, to house the FLIR CEU (the very large control unit), our network components and DVR components, plus additional storage. These were upholstered to match the remainder of the roof liner, with integrated LED strip lighting for the cargo area. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-14.jpg ...large overhead storage assembly... We also constructed a large overhead storage assembly with two compartments, each with the same combination cam-lock hardware used throughout MK-71, to house the FLIR CEU (the very large control unit), our network components and DVR components, plus additional storage. These were upholstered to match the remainder of the roof liner, with integrated LED strip lighting for the cargo area. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-15.jpg ...large overhead storage assembly... We also constructed a large overhead storage assembly with two compartments, each with the same combination cam-lock hardware used throughout MK-71, to house the FLIR CEU (the very large control unit), our network components and DVR components, plus additional storage. These were upholstered to match the remainder of the roof liner, with integrated LED strip lighting for the cargo area. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-16.jpg We custom-designed a dog bed pad... We custom-designed a dog bed pad fitted to the cargo area and upholstered it in an arctic camo pattern, in Alcantara suede, plus a removable elastic net curtain to keep the pooches in the rear. And a Thule ski carrier on the roof was custom-painted in the same arctic camo scheme. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-17.jpg We custom-designed a dog bed pad... We custom-designed a dog bed pad fitted to the cargo area and upholstered it in an arctic camo pattern, in Alcantara suede, plus a removable elastic net curtain to keep the pooches in the rear. And a Thule ski carrier on the roof was custom-painted in the same arctic camo scheme. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-18.jpg For added driving performance... For added driving performance, we installed Callaway’s SC560 engine performance package, featuring: Supercharged L86 Engine: 560HP, 553 lb-ft torque (SAE) Callaway GenThree TM TVS2300 Supercharger Callaway TripleCooled TM Intercooler System Callaway High Flow Intake System Callaway Carbon Engine Covers with SC560 Emblems https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-19.jpg We installed a Callaway brake package... We installed a Callaway brake package, 6-piston, 380mm diameter rotors, front and rear, HRE TR109 22” wheels, and Toyo Proxes S/T11 285/45R22 114V XL tires. We also CAD-designed and 3D-printed custom center caps for the wheels. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-20.jpg We installed a Callaway brake package... We installed a Callaway brake package, 6-piston, 380mm diameter rotors, front and rear, HRE TR109 22” wheels, and Toyo Proxes S/T11 285/45R22 114V XL tires. We also CAD-designed and 3D-printed custom center caps for the wheels. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-21.jpg ...low restriction sport exhaust... And we installed a customized Callaway low restriction sport exhaust. We fitted a muffler bypass valve and provided a dash control for this feature. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-22.jpg ...low restriction sport exhaust... And we installed a customized Callaway low restriction sport exhaust. We fitted a muffler bypass valve and provided a dash control for this feature. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-23.jpg ...low restriction sport exhaust... And we installed a customized Callaway low restriction sport exhaust. We fitted a muffler bypass valve and provided a dash control for this feature. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-24.jpg ...a truly unique and massive project... This was a truly unique and massive project. We’ll conclude with these last few photos – one taken early in the project and the others taken closer to the end – as they provide a glimpse into our work methodology and a snapshot into any given week’s punch list on a project of this scale. With an organized outline of the tasks at hand, our team is aligned and can focus on the actual thinking, design, and fabrication of creative solutions for any ideas our client requests. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-25.jpg ...a truly unique and massive project... This was a truly unique and massive project. We’ll conclude with these last few photos – one taken early in the project and the others taken closer to the end – as they provide a glimpse into our work methodology and a snapshot into any given week’s punch list on a project of this scale. With an organized outline of the tasks at hand, our team is aligned and can focus on the actual thinking, design, and fabrication of creative solutions for any ideas our client requests. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/mk-71/mk71-c4-main-26.jpg ...a truly unique and massive project... This was a truly unique and massive project. We’ll conclude with these last few photos – one taken early in the project and the others taken closer to the end – as they provide a glimpse into our work methodology and a snapshot into any given week’s punch list on a project of this scale. With an organized outline of the tasks at hand, our team is aligned and can focus on the actual thinking, design, and fabrication of creative solutions for any ideas our client requests. https://www.aidesign.com/work/ferrari-f430-scuderia 0.5 https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c1-main-1.jpg These photos show our process... These photos show our process designing and fabricating the roll cage for this 2008 Ferrari F430 Scuderia Track Car. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c1-main-2.jpg We’ve never seen another shop go about the process... We’ve never seen another shop go about the process of designing a cage with string. For us though, this was natural and the best way to identify the miter angles and radius bends for our bending software and bending and notcher machines. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c1-main-3.jpg We utilized Chromoly steel tubing... We utilized Chromoly steel tubing for its higher strength and slight weight savings. We CNC’d custom end fittings and tabs in 4000 series steel for the side impact bars, which had to be removable. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c1-main-4.jpg We utilized Chromoly steel tubing... We utilized Chromoly steel tubing for its higher strength and slight weight savings. We CNC’d custom end fittings and tabs in 4000 series steel for the side impact bars, which had to be removable. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c1-main-5.jpg We designed steel cladding to reinforce the Ferrari... We designed steel cladding to reinforce the Ferrari aluminum rocker frame tube member and a series of cleverly fitted back plates, which inserted inside that tunnel for the cage and cladding to bolt through the aluminum and into the back plate as a sandwich. Our back plates had long, rigid steel wires welded to them so we could fish them through the rocker’s cavity, where they’d stay once cage mounts 1-4 and the cladding were bolted in place. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c1-main-6.jpg We designed steel cladding to reinforce the Ferrari... We designed steel cladding to reinforce the Ferrari aluminum rocker frame tube member and a series of cleverly fitted back plates, which inserted inside that tunnel for the cage and cladding to bolt through the aluminum and into the back plate as a sandwich. Our back plates had long, rigid steel wires welded to them so we could fish them through the rocker’s cavity, where they’d stay once cage mounts 1-4 and the cladding were bolted in place. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c1-main-7.jpg Cage mounts 5 and 6 were handled similarly... Cage mounts 5 and 6 were handled similarly with the OEM aluminum cross brace that ran from left to right on the rear firewall. Back plating was fished through this member and the runners from the cage landed on these firmly. Tabs were welded onto the cage for track staff fire extinguisher pull, extinguisher nozzles, etc. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c1-main-8.jpg The Scud’s decorative carbon fiber door panel trims... The Scud’s decorative carbon fiber door panel trims could not be retained as they interfered with the new side impact bars, so we fabricated new ones with a top section formed in aluminum sheet metal and upholstered in Alcantara with top-stitch detail. The lower section utilized pre-finished CF paneling for an essentially all-flat panel to clear the cage. OEM fastener positions were used and we adapted a Porsche GT3 loop-style door release with a neat little bezel we machined in ABS plastic to finish it all off. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c1-main-9.jpg The Scud’s decorative carbon fiber door panel trims... The Scud’s decorative carbon fiber door panel trims could not be retained as they interfered with the new side impact bars, so we fabricated new ones with a top section formed in aluminum sheet metal and upholstered in Alcantara with top-stitch detail. The lower section utilized pre-finished CF paneling for an essentially all-flat panel to clear the cage. OEM fastener positions were used and we adapted a Porsche GT3 loop-style door release with a neat little bezel we machined in ABS plastic to finish it all off. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c1-main-10.jpg A fully plumbed extinguisher was installed... A fully plumbed extinguisher was installed with nozzles at the front and rear of the cage, engine bay and under dash. Remote releases for fire were at the driver’s window for track staff and at the OEM radio location for the driver, where we made a neat panel to accommodate it and the master battery/electrical shut down slam-button. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c1-main-11.jpg Appropriate modifications were made to the seats... Appropriate modifications were made to the seats and upholstery to accommodate the necessary 6-point Schroth harnesses. A proper harness bar was fabricated and fitted to the underseat for points 5 and 6. Shaft collars were applied to the harness bar horizontal on the cage to separate points 1 and 2. Points 3 and 4 were at the seat’s sides/hinge points with adapters. The cage was painted the matte dark titanium metallic as was the OEM floor of the Scud to give it a very OEM appearance. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c1-main-12.jpg Cool Suit system was fitted to the car... Cool Suit system was fitted to the car. Camera and track race recorder system were integrated with a high degree of finish. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c2-main-1.jpg These photos show more of our process... These photos show more of our process, including front bumper bodywork, dual-plane rear wing, and additional tuning upgrades, for the ultimate performance on the track. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c2-main-2.jpg This was a part made for racing... This was a part made for racing with racing’s un-important fit quality. It was very crude with a horrible fit. A significant amount of truing, alignment and fiberglass work was needed to match the fit and finish of the rest of the car before we sent it off for paint. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c2-main-3.jpg With more downforce in the front, we needed more... With more downforce in the front, we needed more in the rear, so we added a dual-plane adjustable rear wing in carbon fiber. Effective and it looks great. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c2-main-4.jpg With more downforce in the front, we needed more... With more downforce in the front, we needed more in the rear, so we added a dual-plane adjustable rear wing in carbon fiber. Effective and it looks great. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c2-main-5.jpg Additional modifications: Exhaust... Additional modifications: Exhaust: Capristo race exhaust including headers, header wrap, race cats, link pipes, rear silencer with valves, and a remote control fob to operate the valves. About a 40 hp gain. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c2-main-6.jpg Additional modifications: Exhaust... Additional modifications: Exhaust: Capristo race exhaust including headers, header wrap, race cats, link pipes, rear silencer with valves, and a remote control fob to operate the valves. About a 40 hp gain. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c2-main-7.jpg Additional modifications: Suspension... Additional modifications: Suspension: Novitec Sport Springs adjusted to have a 20-25mm forward rake. Wheels: HRE P40S in Matte black, 8.5”x19” front and 11”x19” rear. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c2-main-8.jpg Additional modifications: Tires... Additional modifications: Tires: Michelin Pilot Sport Cup + N-Spec: 245/35/R19 93Y and 305/30/R19 102Y https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c2-main-9.jpg Additional modifications: Brakes... Additional modifications: Brakes: Initially we replaced OEM CCB brake pads with client supplied “Challenge” pads and upgraded the brake fluid to Motul RBF 600. Midway into the race season we measured and fabricated new stainless steel brake lines to further improve braking performance. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/scuderia/scuderia-c2-main-10.jpg https://www.aidesign.com/work/brabus-mb-g550-4x4 0.5 https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c1-main-1.jpg None of the Brabus add-on aero pieces... None of the Brabus add-on aero pieces and carbon fiber were installed straight. They were crooked, mal-adjusted or loose. Rubber gaskets in the bumper were missing. PPF installation was imprecise. The real transgression was that they’d applied PPF prior to attaching Brabus parts on the front end. For instance, the whole hood was wrapped before the large Brabus Carbon Fiber panel was glued on top of it, permanently locking in the PPF. Should one wish to replace a section, you’d be forced to remove the entire carbon panel – not easy. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c1-main-2.jpg We removed all of the PPF after carefully removing... We removed all of the PPF after carefully removing all of the glued-in-place Brabus parts. Our re-installation of the PPF was as edgeless as anyone could make it. In areas where a Brabus part had to overlap PPF and be glued on top of the surface it was applied to, we painstakingly trimmed the PPF 3-4mm just inside the overlap. This way, if you had to change the PPF, you’d be able to pull the old out and work the new into the gap. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c1-main-3.jpg We removed all of the PPF after carefully removing... We removed all of the PPF after carefully removing all of the glued-in-place Brabus parts. Our re-installation of the PPF was as edgeless as anyone could make it. In areas where a Brabus part had to overlap PPF and be glued on top of the surface it was applied to, we painstakingly trimmed the PPF 3-4mm just inside the overlap. This way, if you had to change the PPF, you’d be able to pull the old out and work the new into the gap. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c1-main-4.jpg The client was sold Renntech ECU tuning... The client was sold Renntech ECU tuning with Renntech downpipes and sport cats. We saw the invoice and he paid for these. The client was supposedly given a brand of ECU tuning we had not ever heard of and could not verify. Upon inspection, the downpipes in the car were OEM Mercedes! We called Renntech to share the car’s VIN, to see if they had provided tuning to it and they confirmed they hadn’t. So we installed the Renntech ECU & downpipe systems. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c1-main-5.jpg The Mansory auto-deploy side steps caused... The Mansory auto-deploy side steps caused the central locking system to malfunction. This would manifest as rear doors not locking and, at times, rear window glass moving after a key fob lock cycle! Essentially, Mansory’s instructions to electrically integrate these steps to the central locking system were wrong. We did a complete troubleshoot and repaired the matter by modifying their circuitry and isolating the doors from the steps and the steps from the central locking CPU. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c1-main-6.jpg The Mansory auto-deploy side steps caused... The Mansory auto-deploy side steps caused the central locking system to malfunction. This would manifest as rear doors not locking and, at times, rear window glass moving after a key fob lock cycle! Essentially, Mansory’s instructions to electrically integrate these steps to the central locking system were wrong. We did a complete troubleshoot and repaired the matter by modifying their circuitry and isolating the doors from the steps and the steps from the central locking CPU. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c1-main-7.jpg On top of this, there was no finesse... On top of this, there was no finesse: We installed billet HRE center caps onto the wheels and powder coated them to match, in place of the chrome plastic versions. We painted the primer-grey brake rotor hats black. We installed proper lug nuts in place of the awful ones they had installed. These three small details made the wheel/brake/tire assembly look so much smarter, so much more dialed-in. And we removed the silver center section on the bold Mercedes body side molding to make it all black, more like the color scheme at large. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c1-main-8.jpg We did not scare away from the work involved... We did not scare away from the work involved to retrofit the Brabus spoiler. Without this piece, nothing was in balance visually. Like it or hate it, the thing needs to be there for the package to look right. Holes needed filling, Sirius antenna needed relocating, and the roof needed re-painting, but in the end, the project is all the better for it. Even the window tint and Clearplex windshield protection were redone due to sloppy work. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c1-main-9.jpg We did not scare away from the work involved.. We did not scare away from the work involved to retrofit the Brabus spoiler. Without this piece, nothing was in balance visually. Like it or hate it, the thing needs to be there for the package to look right. Holes needed filling, Sirius antenna needed relocating, and the roof needed re-painting, but in the end, the project is all the better for it. Even the window tint and Clearplex windshield protection were redone due to sloppy work. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c1-main-10.jpg The lights: Brabus restyling adds new headlamps... The lights: Brabus restyling adds new headlamps and DRL’s, side mirror indicators, lower bumper indicators and DRL’s, and activates windshield header lamps. The modules were installed wrong and not programmed. Relays and incorrect power taps had been added and none worked correctly. Lamps flashed out of sync during signaling or hazards. Headlamps were intermittent. DRL’s did not work at all. Interior relays were clicking whenever turn signals were used. Everything had to be redone from scratch per Brabus’ instructions. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c2-main-1.jpg Fabrication, installation, and trim work... Fabrication, installation, and trim work of a custom sound system. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c2-main-2.jpg Fabrication, installation, and trim work... Fabrication, installation, and trim work of a custom sound system. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c2-main-3.jpg Our custom-designed and 3D-printed Radar View mirror. Our custom-designed and 3D-printed Radar View mirror. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c2-main-4.jpg Our custom-designed and 3D-printed Radar View mirror. Our custom-designed and 3D-printed Radar View mirror. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c2-main-5.jpg Installing sensors with absolutely level precision. Installing sensors with absolutely level precision. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c2-main-6.jpg Our custom-designed and 3D-printed G-Wagon cup holder. Our custom-designed and 3D-printed G-Wagon cup holder. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c2-main-7.jpg Our custom-designed and 3D-printed G-Wagon cup holder. Our custom-designed and 3D-printed G-Wagon cup holder. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c2-main-8.jpg Another custom element we added... Another custom element we added was for the Mansory exhaust’s quiet valve - first we gave this part a black ceramic coating, and then for the quiet valve controller, we converted it from a key fob remote to an integrated control within the dashboard. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c2-main-9.jpg Another custom element we added... Another custom element we added was for the Mansory exhaust’s quiet valve - first we gave this part a black ceramic coating, and then for the quiet valve controller, we converted it from a key fob remote to an integrated control within the dashboard. https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c2-main-10.jpg https://www.aidesign.com/assets/images/work/brabus/brabus-c2-main-11.jpg https://www.aidesign.com/about/matt-figliola 0.2 https://www.aidesign.com/about/our-team 0.2 https://www.aidesign.com/about/our-partners 0.2 https://www.aidesign.com/about/media-and-testimonials 0.2