MK-71 is an extensively customized Cadillac Escalade ESV, designed to handle anything on the open road, or off-road.
This project started with our client requesting three main areas of customized work on his Escalade – a bed liner black-out finish to transform the look of the exterior, a tremendous audio system incorporating some of our technology from our E45 project, and several power and performance upgrades. As we worked on MK-71, our client’s ideas for it grew, and the project grew with it. An emergency response system was added, plus significant auxiliary lighting both inside and out, and some pretty wild military-grade and military-inspired additions to the vehicle’s equipment and controls.
These two videos tell some of the story for this Cadillac Escalade ESV – our Project Spotlight video shows many of its extensive features, and our short featurette, The Target, shows it in action. Additional photos below show more of our fabrication process from start to finish.
These two videos tell some of the story for this Cadillac Escalade ESV – our Project Spotlight video shows many of its extensive features, and our short featurette, The Target, shows it in action. Additional photos below show more of our fabrication process from start to finish.
The first batch of images below show the exterior bed liner finish and additional exterior and interior auxiliary lighting, as well as an emergency response system we installed for the client. More photos follow, showing the incredible audio system and electrical networks within MK-71, not to mention some extreme military gear.
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.
...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.
...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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
...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.
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.
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.
...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.
...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...
...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...
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.
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.
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.
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.
We also fitted automatic lighting...
We also fitted automatic lighting into the interior storage compartments, consoles, and in the cargo area.
We also fitted automatic lighting...
We also fitted automatic lighting into the interior storage compartments, consoles, and in the cargo area.
...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.
...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.
...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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
...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.
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.
...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.
...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.
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.
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.
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.
...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.
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.
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.
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.
The next major element to MK-71 was a killer audio system, built with E45 DNA. We also installed a vintage emergency band scanner, a cellular booster, and we engineered a comprehensive LAN/ WAN network for MK-71’s various audio and video components and their feeds.
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.
...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.
...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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
...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.
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.
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.
...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.
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.
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.
...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.
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.
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!
Before we go any further, we’ll address the elephant in the room – the crazy situation on the roof! These next photos describe in greater detail the military-grade FLIR thermal imaging camera, its corresponding components outside and inside the vehicle, as well as various other controls in the cockpit, and how these were all integrated within MK-71.
...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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
...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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
This last series of photos shows more of our extensive custom fabrication work within MK-71’s interior, and some power/performance upgrades we installed.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
...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.
...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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
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.
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.
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 GenThreeTM TVS2300 Supercharger
- Callaway TripleCooledTM Intercooler System
- Callaway High Flow Intake System
- Callaway Carbon Engine Covers with SC560 Emblems
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.
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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
...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.
Another video about MK-71, produced by The Drive, can be viewed via our Press & Testimonials page.
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