Jalopnik: Aftermarket

How Not To Modify Your Mercury Cougar

Matt Hardigree — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 10:40:00 EDT

Whereas we like to think Jalopnik is a fairly safe and friendly place to express an opinion, niche forums can be brutal. Take the story of one young man and his last generation Mercury Cougar at the New Cougar forums. We know it can't be easy to be a Cougar owner — who do you have to look down on? Topaz owners? Nevertheless, these fan-boys soldier on and learn to squeeze every bit of love and performance out of their cars, which is something we can respect. But this guy's ride we can't respect. He's basically taken plywood and home theatre controls and shoved them in the backseat of his car (something you can do if you have no friends). The execution is so poor that it makes you start to appreciate the ridiculous import tuner crowd. But as harsh as we could be, our pithy comments are nothing compared to the ire directed at him by his fellow Cougar fan-boys. We've included a selection of said comments below the jump.

Selected Responses From The New Cougar Forums
"You do know that if you get in an accident, all that stuff is going to kill you, right?"

"What in the jihad??? What in earth brought you to think all those pc speakers would be so much better than just spending the money on a good car audio head unit. What do the girls say when you ride by blasting the windows startup sound?"

"Not sure if anyone posted this already but that ****'s gonna get stolen. WTF were you thinking, not just because it what it is, but because there is no harness and it is in plain view."

"The problem isn't the SOUND quality... the problem is that there are computer speakers (LOTS of Computer Speakers) filling the entire back seat! LOL

"That neon in the trunk was hilarious to me beacause it was bridged across both seats, so if you were to fold down one it would break. Then again you cant fold down your seats because there is a logitec demo in the back seat!"

Cougar Owner Responds

hey noggs you strike me as one of those Madison Democrat pplz but I'll ask anyway, PM me where you live so I can have a witness stop by and confirm that the speakers sound awesome.

Yes I do, just cropped it out. They're mounted on the dash. Didn't you think it odd that 5.1 speaker sets each had only 4 speakers back there? Guess where the other 2 are

Also, the neon lights are hidden (except in the back temporarily). I made sure that from sitting anywhere in the car, you can't see any part of the blue bar at all. You also can't see the exterior green ones without laying on the ground. I just took the shot of it with the camera cuz it wasn't catching the glow alone and to show where it was. Didn't you notice that the camera angle was from like a foot off the ground?

Btw if I get a stereo installed with an Aux in, I can use the door speakers at the same time. But seriously, you all own cougars, as if being 3 feet below your ears, nearer to the engine, with the insane amount of road noise you get makes them sound like anything. I can't stand them and it's not worth putting really expensive ones in that will sound better when they're in a horrible place to begin with.

That's just a small sampling of what has to be the longest 7G Cougar related thread in history. (h/t Braff) [New Cougar Forums]

Aftermarket Manufacturers Go Sync, Next-Gen Also On The Way

Travis Hudson — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 15:20:00 EDT

We knew that Microsoft was going to look to hawk its Sync system elsewhere—especially with its booming popularity and the soon-to-be expired Ford contract. Now we know who is first to the free market table Alpine and Continental, two aftermarket manufacturers, are already working on integrating the voice command and entertainment system into their own products. Perhaps even more interesting, due to its early popularity, Microsoft is already working on the next generation of Sync and it has a super-exciting codename!

Talladega. Yes, the partial name of the semi-funny Will Ferrel movie is the codename of Microsoft's next generation of Sync. Then again, we all know codenames are rarely used for the real release of any product, but who knows with this case. I can already imagine the kids: "Hey dudebro, check my sa-weet Talladega system!" Yeah, it just doesn't sound right. [Automotive]

What's Killing The Car Stereo Industry?

Travis Hudson — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 13:40:00 EST

A recent NPD Group and CEA study showed that car stereo sales and other car audio equipment had a steep decline in the fourth quarter of 2007. Single CD players dropped 4 percent, amplifiers dropped 21 percent, subwoofers dropped 18 percent and speakers dropped 8 percent—all compared to the same quarter in 2006. Kenwood seems to think it was the gas prices and weather, but in all reality I think it is because aftermarket car audio is slowly becoming obsolete. Hit the jump for a poll. I certainly don't buy aftermarket audio equipment anymore and I'm curious about you.

Most new cars include enough options for in-car entertainment and information including personal navigation systems and more. Also, the current model of in car systems don't utilize the previously universal rectangular deck space in favor of other designs that are less convenient to install.

I hate to say it, but as much as I enjoy my regular Crutchfield as bathroom reading material, aftermarket audio may be experiencing its swan song as manufacturers take over and give the consumers everything they could ever want for in-car entertainment. [TWICE](Image)

BMW 1-Series Accessories Brochure Leaks Out to Web

Ray Wert — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 08:15:00 EST

Remember those shots of the supposed BMW 1-Series tii we showed you late last week? Yeah, sorry boys, it's not a production version of the tii. Instead, it seems it's nothing more than just the German accessory brochure leaking out onto the web just a wee bit early for the wee little Bimmer. But, feel free to peruse the pages of the leaked brochure and dream — courtesy of our friends at 1addicts — if that's what you wish. Only caveat — it's entirely in German. So umm, good luck with that. Or feel free to check out the performance accessorized 1-Series below. [via 1addicts]

PimpStar LED Rims, The Classy Way To Pick Up Strippers

Matt Hardigree — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 10:30:00 EST

The end is nigh! The insane individuals at DUB Custom Wheels have now brought us the PimpStar LED wheels, and thus the end of civilization as we know it. Using full color LED lights, a microprocessor and wireless modem, these wheels can display any images you like, on the fly, that can be changed even as you're driving (hellow lawsuit). Hot girl in the next car? Just flash the numbers on your dubs and before long she'll be calling you... or the police. One of the two. They're just $12,000 so act fast before they're all sold out or outlawed. Whichever comes first. Full details below. We actually ran the PimpStar Wheels story a while ago, but now we have the video.

Product Details

The PimpStar is a huge leap forward in the evolution of the wheel. With the PimpStar's built-in full color LED lights, microprocessor and wireless modem, you can display virtually any image, including text, graphics, logos, and even digital photos!

The included software allows you to create your own images and send them to each wheel individually or all wheels at the same time as you drive! You can even pre-load up to six images into each wheel and program them to change automatically at the time intervals you select. The wheels are environmentally sealed, so you don't have to worry about going to the car wash; and they are powered by the vehicle electrical system so there are no batteries to run out or change, ever.

Just wow.

[Neatorama via boingboing]

Alpine's 2008 Aftermarket Audio Catalog Surprisingly Filled With Goods

Travis Hudson — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 09:30:00 EST

Alpine's 2008 lineup is here, and I have to say, I'm mighty impressed. If you remember back to yesteryear, Alpine was the bee's knees of aftermarket audio, but as of late they've kind of hit a slump. It looks like 2008 may again make Alpine a force to be reckoned with.

Included in the 2008 lineup is a wide array of iPod compatible units, Bluetooth compatible units, GPS navigation systems, amps, speakers and that doesn't even include the marine selection for your luxury yacht or tugboat.

The W505 2 din mobile multimedia station is the one I have my eye on. Check out the PDF link to see the entire 2008 spring lineup. It's a beauty. [Alpine 2008 Catalog (PDF) via Florida Car Audio]

Dramatic Prius Sales Video

Mike Spinelli — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 07:44:50 EDT

Orson Welles once said, "The best thing commercially, which is the worst thing artistically, by and large, is the most successful." He was referring to drama, a concept the seller of this highly modified Toyota Prius has employed to great effect, though its commercial success remains to be seen. If after seeing the above excerpt you must have more, you can see the full video here, including some tense script-in-the-shot moments and a more detailed examination of the interior. The car itself is a major aftermarket extravaganza, including many JDM add-ons, new suspension components and an A/V system. Of course, he's likely being ironic, so don't go all Star Wars Kid on the guy. (Thanks to Omar for the tip.) [eBay]

Way to Ruin Hello Kitty...Again

burstein — Fri, 05 Oct 2007 09:30:00 EDT

So, we saw this a couple of days ago, but we've been taking some time to ponder our response to these aftermarket Hello Kitty wheels. Since one of us is a big Hello Kitty fan, people are always sending me links to all things HK, along with messages that say things like, "look how cute!" or, "I bet you'd love this!" The fact of the matter is, no, I do not like most of them. Sure enough, I got a similar message today when Kitty Hell posted a photo of the latest item to be butchered: A set of Hello Kitty wheels.

Why do I feel this way? The same reason I don't like knockoff Gucci sunglasses, or BMW's recent "car in every garage" marketing strategy, or the Porsche Boxster, or overexposed couture logos on $10 tee shirts. Mass merchandising cheapens a brand. Would we hold Koenigsegg or Bugatti in the same esteem if those companies were producing watered-down, entry-level versions within the reach of the unwashed masses?

It's not just about availability or price, either. It's mostly comes right down to aesthetics. Much of the Hello Kitty stuff I come across is done so poorly or is so blatantly cheesy that it just kills the cuteness that is Hello Kitty (which includes the photo of the pink Testarossa floating around the "Internets"). I'm sure there's a better way to execute $900 rims. Personally, a small etching of Hello Kitty on the hub would suffice. Subtlety speaks volumes. Come on, people. [Kitty Hell via Autoblog

Bimmerformance! BMW Launches Performance Parts Line

Mike Spinelli — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 08:54:19 EDT

Not to be outdone in the aftermarket-parts goldmine, BMW is launching a line of factory performance parts that will challenge those from tuning shops. Apparently, the line only includes gear for the Z4 and 3 Series, with a concentration on the last-gen model. To wit: BMW claims a performance exhaust offers five more horsepower at a reduction of 8.8 pounds, and an engine kit for the 330 adds 10 horsepower and 8 lb-ft of torque. Also in the catalog are a shift kit, suspension hoo-has, drilled brake rotors, an air intake, and wheels. We'll hold out for the V10 crate motor for our Mantamino project, thanks. [Automobile]

Turn Your Heap into an Evo MR!

Davey G. Johnson — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 21:00:00 EDT

By and large we're not big fans of adding carbon-fiber gewgaws and doohickies to vehicles that honestly don't need them. But for readers of Max Power, it seems to be a pretty common pastime. Witness this fine example of CF-accesorization — a vortex generator a la Mitsu's AWD road-torcher that can be fitted to your ride. We can't wait to see our first Aveo so equipped. [Monster Modz via Max Power]

Should You Spend It All In One Place?

Jonny Lieberman — Fri, 08 Jun 2007 11:15:00 EDT

Or is it better to spread the money around? Today's question comes straight from the lips of commenter/good guy Erik M. Here's what he asks,

Given a set amount of money, say like 30k or so, Is it better to spend all of it on a nice car, or [just] spend some of it on the car and leave the rest for improvments/ customization?

We're thinking this one will yield some pretty heated answers. Our take? Well, we've always planned on turning the WRX Sport Wagon (with walnuts, Johnson) into an RS 4 Avant. But just yesterday a certain Mr. M. Bumbeck has once again talked us out of performing any mods whatsoever. We now sleep with the warranty info under our pillow. What say all y'all? – Jonny Lieberman

[The Jalopnik Question of the Day ~~needs women~~ is better when asked. Do you have a question you want answered? Email it to tips@jalopnik.com with the subject line "QOTD"]

The Maltese Falcon: A Hardtop Mustang?

Mike Spinelli — Mon, 19 Mar 2007 18:05:02 EDT

Autoblog found a story in the Times of Malta of a Maltese company building retractable hardtops that can be fitted to late-model Ford Mustangs. If you remember, Malta is the island nation south of Sicily on which AC Cars is reportedly building replicas of original AC Cobras, and where it will reportedly build AC roadsters based on the erstwhile Smart roadster for the UK's Project Kimber. Of course, none of those projects appear to be on solid footing. But this hardtop may be just what Malta's aftermarket automotive industry needs to get going. No word on, well, anything else about it. – Mike Spinelli

+ TimesofMalta.com: Ford Mustang roof mechanism to be built in Malta [Times of Malta via Autoblog]

Related:
More on Project Kimber: Deal With AC Cars? [internal]

Secret Corvette Parts Stash Found, Soon To Be On EBay

Ray Wert — Mon, 29 Jan 2007 08:15:00 EST

The National Corvette Museum just received a gift of several pallets of never-used manufactured Corvette and GM parts from Guide Corporation. We're talking all sorts of parts for every model Corvette going back to the 1950's. You've got your grilles, chrome pieces, headlamps, lenses — really, a little bit of everything. The NCM's decided that each week for the next couple of months they'll be dropping a dozen or so of the parts onto eBay for all to enjoy — as long as they win it via "Buy It Now" or straight-up by auction. What — you think they'd just give these generally vette-tastic parts away for free? – Ray Wert

nationalcorvette auctions [eBay via GMInsideNews]

Related:
Question of the Day: Baby's First Mods? [internal]

Getting A Grip On Where The Rubber Meets The Road

Ray Wert — Thu, 18 Jan 2007 10:05:00 EST

Most folks know one of the easiest and quickest performance enhancements you can make to your car when you first get it from the dealer is a good set of tires. As Top Gear's Jeremy Clarkson illustrates in the video above, the difference between budget tires and performance tires on their closed course caused an almost two second difference in lap time with a professional driver at the wheel. That's because traction is all about making sure you've got the most rubber possible touching the road at any given moment. Thus, on a dry track, performance tires with a slicker surface allow a greater percentage of the surface of the tire to be in contact with the road, thus providing a higher level of "grip." See for yourself. – Ray Wert

TAKE A GRIP OF STEERING! Japanese Spare-Tire Covers

Davey G. Johnson — Fri, 29 Dec 2006 20:00:00 EST

More amusement than you can shake a Daihatsu Terios Kid at. Click over and giggle. After all, when you hear the birds sing, you can be sure that spring has come. When you hear the birds sing, you can be sure of that. [Thanks to David for the tip.] – Davey G. Johnson

Japanese SUV Spare Tire Covers

Question of the Day: Baby's First Mods?

Mike Spinelli — Fri, 29 Dec 2006 09:30:00 EST

So, n00b, you've been staring out the window at a patently stock vehicle, getting all itchy in that special place car freaks call "the wallet." You'd love to imbue your assembly-line queen with a semblance of sporting trim, but the aftermarket is so vast, you have no freaking clue where to start. Thankfully, you have Los Jalopniks to guide your hand. That's the segue, kids. How should someone starting down the Path of Lost Wages spend their add-on bucks, and what products should they avoid like sparklers on crepe-paper day? Don't hold back. – Mike Spinelli

You'll Put Her Eye Out, Kid: Stereo Hoonage Causes Poppage

Ray Wert — Wed, 06 Dec 2006 13:35:05 EST

We're all for customizations of any kind, and especially in car audio and video. There's nothing quite like dropping 10K on a car — then 15K on the stereo system, LCD screens and tight XBOX 360 integration systems — to make the ladies scream. But there comes a point in time when a person's got to decide, should a system merely figuratively make your eyes pop out of your skull or should it literally make your eye pop out of your skull. We guess you could always go the third route — you know, just make glass eyes pop from sockets — like these stereo hoons here. – Ray Wert

[via CarDomain]

First In The 9's? Pennsylvania Speed Shop Claims Sub-Ten Second GT500 Run

Ray Wert — Sun, 26 Nov 2006 09:00:00 EST

With 664 HP and 778 ft-lb of torque, the Pennsylvania speed-shop, Evolution Performance, claims they've souped-up the first sub-ten second Shelby GT500. What do you think of their claim — do they hit that magic number? Watch the video above to find out, but seeing as this was the same shop that was first in the 11's and 10's — chances are pretty good they'll make it happen. Plus, we probably wouldn't be posting it if they failed magnificently, right? – Ray Wert

It's Money that Matters: 24K Gold Springs

Mike Spinelli — Fri, 24 Nov 2006 08:21:44 EST

It's said these 24k gold plated springs were originally fashioned for a customer in Dubai, who wanted his Ferrari F430 Spyder to stand out among the emirate's patently ungilded supercars. Now, H&R Springs, which came up with the plating process, is offering the springs for a premium of 2,000 euros over the cost of stock springs. You just know the next car to sport these will probably be worth a quarter of their value. – Mike Spinelli

Behold! H&R's gold springs [Autoblog]

Related:
50 Cent Chromes Murcielago [internal]

Do Not Front on My Brabus, Nor Should You Front upon Mein Bruce: Claus Ettenberger's Florida Shop Due in February

Davey G. Johnson — Wed, 22 Nov 2006 21:30:00 EST

We like Claus Ettenberger, a man who can rock a Hugo Boss cap without irony, and will complete a cross-country rally as fast as possible simply to have time to shower, say hello to his family and then head up to Ventura to play fu ball. As an official installer of all things Brabus and AC Schnitzer, not to mention Oettinger, Herr Ettenberger has chiseled a career from the embrace of Bruce. The new highly-precise (although our jury is still out on Schnitzer precision) facility will offer the sale and installation of hop-up pieces from Novitec, TechArt, Azev and Antera, as well as the aforementioned brands. Rich people who prefer hurricanes to earthquakes and snow, warm up your checkbooks: the new shop opens February 24th in Miami.

Miami Vices [0-60]

Related:
Claus Ettenberger: Teutonic Butterfly Sadist [Internal]

404'd! JC Whitney's New Bomb Turkey

Davey G. Johnson — Tue, 21 Nov 2006 13:30:00 EST

Oh our flippin' 'eck! We don't really know if we can add much more to this obscenely amazing graphic's presence, either in favor of or against. But if you're looking for Winky the Cat, you're in the wrong place, and you might end up staring down the fork tubes of a gobbler under the influence of some quality San Bernardino bathtub speed and the teachings of Sonny Barger. That is all. That is entirely hilarious. – Davey G. Johnson

Sorry, wrong turkey. Please try again [JC Whitney]

Beaucoup Belgium Booth Babes: The 2006 International Tuning Salon

Ray Wert — Tue, 14 Nov 2006 13:01:00 EST

The 2006 International Tuning Salon just finished up over in Belgium and although we weren't there, the pictures and video we've seen indicate it was one hell of a party. Although the 330 custom cars and tuners are more than outmatched by the orgy of aftermarket product uses on display at SEMA, the copious flesh on display at the Nekkerhal Mechelen make the Las Vegas ~~strippers~~ booth babes look like a convent. Although we do have to say there may be a line they've crossed out in Belgium, because we've no idea what fire-breathing and panty-stripping lesbians have to do with cars — but whatevs, we'll roll with it. The gallery below and the video after the jump are definitely Not Safe For Work. – Ray Wert

Thunder Bunny! Volkswagen May Build SEMA Concept

Mike Spinelli — Mon, 06 Nov 2006 13:53:07 EST

Those Volkswagen tuners at the SEMA show may hearken a plan to launch an auto das ist pimpen in the US, according to Automotive News. The trade daily reports VW's Thunder Bunny concept it showed at SEMA (pictured) could see daylight eventually. The company is also looking toward increasing the availability of accessories through VW dealers, though won't go overboard with upgrades that aren't functional, or are too "bombastic," according to one VW manager (guess the rumored Siegfried & Roy Edition Passat is out). V-dub is also planning to gauge interest in the 'Bunny — which was designed at VW's Santa Monica studio and sports a Neuspeed-tuned, 225-hp, 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, Brembo brakes, Bilstein coil-over shocks, a short-throw shift kit and 19" wheels — before greenlighting the project. We'd rather see V-dub build the RGTI concept it showed at SEMA, though with a new R32 (or R36) on the way, that preference may be moot. [Gallery] – Mike Spinelli

Related:
Yes!: Volkswagen Rabbit R32 Coming to the US [internal]

Long Island Corvette Z06 Has One Last Smokey Burnout

Ray Wert — Fri, 03 Nov 2006 16:44:29 EST

The image associated with this post is best viewed using a browser.Oh man, talk about a shitty day. That's what the owner of this lovely red Z06 Corvette had yesterday over in Long Island, the day after having a new exhaust installed on his car. In fact, we'll let skelzy of M3Forum.com tell the tale, with a gallery of his pics below:

So I'm chillin on my way home from work today when all of a sudden a red vette passes me on the right shoulder and its ON FIRE! I'm like " Holy Sh*t, I gotta see this" so i follow him about a block and he pulls into a goodyear tire store near my house. As I pull up I realize its the new Z06. WOW. I pull up and the owner is out of the car and watching it being consumed in flames...

[Corvette Z06 Up In Smoke Gallery]

"...right in front of him. The guys at goodyear come running out with a fire extinguisher and put out the fire, or so they thought. I asked the owner if he was ok and he said yes. He said he heard something from underneath the car on the highway but didnt realize it was on fire until he exited, which is when he passed me. I asked if he was beating it or what? He said no, but the dealer recently installed a new exhaust on the car. I was like "ooohhhhh"! Just then, the goodyear guys started yelling at us to move away because it was on fire again. This time it spread quickly and I really thought the gas tank was gonna explode. Then, the local fire dept. arrived and started dousing the car with the fire hoses. I mean DOUSING! The fire chief walkes over to us and tells the owner that the car is gone and not salvagable, but they would try to be as careful with as they could. As soon as he said that, the firemen went to work on the car with pic-ax and heavy ax. They smashed the trunk window and started to pull off the body work with the ax's. I personally am not a fan of the vettes, but it was heartbreaking to see this beautiful Z06 being torn apart after it has just burned to the ground. I asked the owner if he minded if I took a few pics and he said not at all."

Well dude, maybe you should have gone to the dealer — 'cause man, I somehow don't think that's covered under GM's new 100,000 mile warranty thing. – Ray Wert

New Z06 catches fire next to me! (Pics) [M3Forum.net via Autoblog]

T(u)RD Kit: The Toyota Auris Sportiva

Ray Wert — Fri, 27 Oct 2006 11:07:19 EDT

We just showed you the new Toyota Auris the other day and folks were already lamenting the plain-Jane upgrades available for Toyota's newest entry into the euro C-segment market. Without a performance upgrade, how could Japan's A-plus number one bestest automaker compete with the VDub GTI's of the world? Well, the folks in Toyota's aftermarket speed-freak shop, Toyota Racing Development (TRD), are already getting their body kit action on — so at the very least you'll be able to kit up your Auris to look like it's got the horsepower to match what the rest of the kiddies have. And don't worry — it'll still look that way when they're a mile ahead of you too. – Ray Wert

Auris Sportivo Version by TRD [Nihon Car]

Spy Photos: 2007 Jeep "Scrambler" Wrangler-Based Pickup?

Ray Wert — Thu, 26 Oct 2006 12:44:13 EDT

Although yes, the Jeep Gladiator program may have been scrapped by the kids over in Auburn Hills due to the need to create a new platform for the vehicle. Despite the sighs and sad faces from Jeep truck enthusiasts everywhere, it looks as though the American side of the German-American hybrid may have come up with something that'll turn those frowns upside down. It's being called the "Scrambler" by some, but "cool" by many more. It's a pickup truck based on the new Jeep Wrangler platform, and it's been spotted tooling around the highways and byways of Metro Detroit, and it may even see the light of day before...

...the end of the month's SEMA show. Allpar's got what they're claiming is more of the skinny:

"Set for an introduction at the SEMA show in about a week, this new pickup concept reportedly consists of two variations. Sources familiar with the strategy tell us that DaimlerChrysler hopes to produce these pickups in small volumes at the Viper Plant, using mechanicals from the 2007 Wrangler, while aftermarket kits will also be made available to fit previous-generation Wranglers. We'll have to await the official announcement in about a week to see exactly how the distribution and manufacturing details will be carried out. But a program such as these Jeep pickups, if our information is correct, is the perfect marriage of the SEMA show's current status: It's a major manufacturer future-product announcement with a clever nod to the aftermarket built right in.
While we presume that the '07-based pickups will be sold through Jeep dealerships, we're told that the kits will reportedly be available to transform 1997-2006 Wranglers into the pickups you see here. Sources suggested that the kits will cost about $8,000-$10,000 (assembly not included), and would require lengthening the frame with parts supplied in the kit. The truck we photographed had a wheelbase extended to approximately 119-inches."

Ooh, that'll be good news to all the folks who bought themselves some Wranglers with all of the discounts Chrysler's been throwing down over the past couple of years. We can't wait to see how this develops. – Ray Wert

UPDATE: Ok, Glenn "sometimes right, sometimes wrong, but always looking for the big score" Paulina now has an update on his "sure bet" on the "Scrambler":

The Wrangler-based pickups we photographed show an updated version of the AEV Brute pickup conversion done by American Expedition Vehicles. AEV has a strong history with Chrysler Corp., having DaimlerChrysler's Design Excellence Award at the 2002 SEMA show.

According to our sources, AEV has created a new version of the Brute based on the all-new 2007 Wrangler, and has discussed some level of joint-venture manufacturing with DCX, utilizing the Viper plant as a prime niche-production site. AEV would take their business and production volumes to a new level, while DCX could tap into AEV's experience with Wrangler-based pickup conversions. If such a relationship comes to fruition, it would most likely be offered through official Jeep channels, bringing an interesting pickup alternative to Jeep dealers for a very low overall investment. It would solve the cost issues that killed the Gladiator concept, which used its own unique platform.

It's our understanding that the arrangement between AEV and DaimlerChrysler is still in the concept stage, perhaps awaiting the public's response to the new 2007 Wrangler-based pickup at this year's SEMA show.

We had posted this update: These photos may actually be an AEV Conversions vehicle called the Brute, which has been on the market for some time (thanks, David G. and Jason West.) Jason West wrote, "Those are AEV Brute trucks which have been in production for a few years now, with AEV's new Highline fenders and hood. That top is all new though, I haven't seen that one yet. Very cool. Looks like they've also redesigned the bed a bit (gas filler is back on the driver-side and the side tiedowns are gone) and widened the tailgate."

The Jeep Scrambler: Wrangler-based Pickup [Allpar.com]

"Chrome" Lexus IS 250 Unveiled at Sydney Show

Mike Spinelli — Wed, 25 Oct 2006 13:22:03 EDT

Lexus's Austrailian aftermarket team went arse over tit for 50 Cent's chrome Lamborghini, to paraphrase today's press release. So much so that the accessory squad worked up a chrome-like IS250 for the Oz market. It's layered in Alsa Corp.'s MirraChrome paint, a reflective formulation that contains microscopic bits of shiny metal, giving it the look of chrome without the six-figure bodyshop bill. In production since earlier this year, the special IS also gets Lexus factory add-ons including a body kit comprising front lower spoiler, side skirts, rear lower skirt and trunk spoiler, and polished alloys. If you happen to find yourself on that side of the globe, you can check it out at the Sydney show, right next to the AC/DC-themed fried-out combi display. [Gallery] – Mike Spinelli

[via World Car Fans]

Related:
MTM's Polished Audi A8 [internal]

Exclusive 2006 SEMA Preview! Ford Encases The Fusion In A Darth Vader-esque 3dCarbon-ite Body Kit

Ray Wert — Tue, 24 Oct 2006 16:01:00 EDT

You'll forgive the pun, but as I sit here in a Dearborn Starbucks, I'm listening to two fan-boys spout off on whether Episode III was better than Episode V — which as everyone knows, isn't even a contest. Which brings me full-vicious-circle to the last of FoMoCo's immortal trilogy that is the automaker's preview of SEMA offerings (sans one toy you'll be seeing tomorrow). This third one is straight out of the body kit shop of 3dCarbon. We'll let 3dCarbon take it from here and tell you a bit about the product, a six-piece kit including a front air dam, side skirts, a rear lower skirt, an upper deck spoiler and a rear deck spoiler:

"Aerodynamic styling inspired by the love of the Autobahn, the Euro Series Styling Kit sets the Fusion apart with a road hugging stance that exudes confidence. Officially licensed by Ford — engineered & manufactured by 3dCarbon. All kit components are manufactured in flexible high pressure injected urethane..."

It certainly all seems to give the Fusion a bit of a meaner stance — and is a definite improvement over the plainer-Jane base version. Oh yeah, it's also got AWD and a set of Brembo black brake calipers with drilled rotors. Plus, Episode V's better than III — Luke gets his friggin' hand chopped off for pete's sake. Full gallery of the 3dCarbon hotness via the link below. – Ray Wert

[Ford Fusion by 3dCarbon Gallery]

Exclusive 2006 SEMA Preview! The Ford F-150 FX2 Sport Extreme Will Smoke Your Ass

Ray Wert — Tue, 24 Oct 2006 14:15:00 EDT

The second pimped-out performance ride we had the opportunity to taste this morning at the Dearborn Development Center was a meaty F-150 pickup seasoned with an FX2 package and then spiced-out with add-on accessories straight from the pages of Ford accessories catalogs. That's the message the FoMoCo media mommies were pushing today — that this pickup with pick-up (the 5.4 liter V8 delivers 450hp to be precise, thanks to a Ford racing screw-type supercharger with ceramic-coated headers and Ford Racing side exhausts) could be designed by any die-hard Ford truck man (or woman, I'm sure) just by checking the right boxes on FoMoCo's in-house parts catalog. In addition to some neat little touches to the outside of the truck including a dark billet grille, headlamp treatments, monochromatic paint and "unique wheels" it also sports some neat techie features like headrest mounted video entertainment units for the little 'uns and a line-in on the top of the dashboard — plus it's got a hard fiberglass tonneau cover to close-up the rear end from the elements. But despite the interior prettiness, as you can see from the photo above, the most attractive feature are the 450 horses under the hood, giving you more than enough go to take care of getting your ass to the job site and back in style. Smokey burnouts not included. Full gallery via the link below. – Ray Wert

[Ford SEMA F-150 FX2 Sport Extreme Gallery]

$$T: Cragar Introduces Limited-Edition Mustang

Mike Spinelli — Mon, 23 Oct 2006 10:39:09 EDT

The shiny wheel company from way, way back, Cragar, is launching a line of turnkey special-edition vehicles, starting with one based on the 2006 Ford Mustang. Filling the spec sheet are Cragar aftermarket toys including high-performance disc brakes and drilled rotors; S/S 20x10" wheels; cat-back exhaust system; cold-air intake via add-on hood scoop; Special Edition interior accents, including shift knob and floor mats, and optional 1970s-era rear window louvers. Buyers — who can purchase the cars at select Ford dealers — also get a swag bag that includes Cragar Special Edition hat, jacket, S/S key chain, and a free subscription to Hot Rod. What more could an old-school rodder want, except say, an old-school rod. [Gallery] [Thanks to Dave for the tip.] – Mike Spinelli

Retro Ad Watch: The Pioneer-Borg Will Assimilate You With Their Stereo Commercials

Ray Wert — Wed, 13 Sep 2006 19:47:10 EDT

Gawd, these old-school Pioneer car stereo commercials are totally weirding us out — especially when the chick wearing the Pioneer DEX-77 visor sticks the CD into her head. That gives us the tingles in a very creepy way. And who the hell markets crap with a series of letters and numbers anyway — oh wait, that's what they still use to name stereos over at Pioneer, ain't it?

Pioneer CD Players [Pioneer Electronics]

Apres le Marche: GM Performance Parts Offers New Kits for Pontiac Solstice

Mike Spinelli — Tue, 01 Aug 2006 15:30:00 EDT

GM Performance Parts is adding a few choice trinkets to its Solstice-tweaking product line, with an eye toward tightening up the Pontiac roadster's performance to a less mainstream spec. They're offering a suspension kit to drop the droptop by 7 mm (0.275 in), a free-flow air intake, cat-back exhaust, 18" alloys and a cockpit air diffuser. Ok, so we're not talking Mallett Solstice, here, but GM's at least making good on giving the Sol owners a few sporting toys. Now where's the bolt-on supercharger and LS6 conversion kit? No, don't let the lawyers in.

Tapeheads: Holding Racecars Together

Davey G. Johnson — Mon, 17 Jul 2006 18:00:00 EDT

Forget plastics, kid. The real money is in removable adhesives! Back when Paul Northrop's son began racing, he noticed most guys were using regular silver duct tape (aka the Mechanic's Best Friend) to hold cars together. Awash in a sea of silver, Northrop decided to add some color to the proceedings and came up with ISC Racer's Tape. Annually, he does about $300,000 in sales, and predicts reaching a mil a year within a few years. If drifting continues to grow in popularity, we wouldn't be against that figure.

A tape that holds fast cars together [PhillyBurbs]

Related:
Look The Nuts! Pink Rims for Your Pee-got [Internal]

Details on Ford's Still-Alive SVT Emerge

Mike Spinelli — Thu, 06 Jul 2006 09:08:03 EDT

There's no word on any high-po Fusion or Edge coming down the SVT pike, but the not-dead Ford division — according to its boss, Hau "Mr. Serious" Thai-Tang — has a new, three-pronged strategy for the way forward: 1) It'll build race-inspired performance vehicles like the now-erstwhile GT (we like the sound of this, not at all surprisingly); 2) It'll offer performance models like the Mustang Shelby Cobra GT500 and a pickup to be named later, and 3) It'll expand its footprint in appearance packages (remember the "Bullitt" Mustang?) — that won't necessarily sport SVT branding — and aftermarket accessories, which may or may not include a whale tail for the Focus.

SVT's Renewed Focus [internal]

Related:
Is Ford Working on SVT Edge, Fusion? [internal]

DIY EFI: BMW 2002 Fuel-Injection Conversion

Davey G. Johnson — Thu, 01 Jun 2006 00:58:18 EDT

We have nothing against carburetors over here at tha Jalop. Dual AFBs, triple Rochesters, sextuple Strombergs and a whole racks of Webers flip our damn switch. But as EFI becomes more understood and accessible to the common man, we're loving it more and more. Steve over at Finkbuilt has decided to take the EFI plunge using the open-source Megasquirt EFI controller on an originally-carbureted BMW 2002. He's a novice at this, which means, well, if he can do it, we can do it. EFI '77 TA, here we come!

DIY Fuel Injection Conversion [Finkbuilt]

Related:
Re,pte Turbo System for Mustangs [Internal]

Look The Nuts! Pink Rims for Your Pee-got!

Davey G. Johnson — Thu, 01 Jun 2006 00:39:31 EDT

Back when our dad taught in the ghetto, stolen Peugeot bikes were the dog's bollocks. Unfortunately, because it was the ghetto, they were referred to as Pee-gots. Needless to say, these ghettofabulous (in a Vaginal Creme Davis sort of way) rims would be perfect for your hoopty-azz Pee-got. Bonus: according to the seller, "THIS IS THE ONLY SET OF THESE WHEELS IN THE COUNTRY/THE FINISH ON THESE IS SECOND TO NONE/THESE LOOK THE NUTS ON ANY CAR." We don't know what's worse, the caps or the "LOVELY PINK AND SILVER FLECK POWDER COATED WHEELS." Erf. [Thanks to the long-away InfinityReversed for the tip.]

17"ALLOY WHEELS CITROEN PEUGEOT 106 205 SAXO 306 [eBay]

Related:
Carbon Fiber/Magnesium Mags on Mosler MT900! [Internal]

Shiny Diamonds, Like the Eyes of a Cat in the Black and Blue: Ice Rims

Davey G. Johnson — Mon, 08 May 2006 14:10:56 EDT

Oh bugger. Did we really need 28" dubs embedded with your choice of zircs or diamonds? Apparently, some company called Yokebir thinks we do, and they've delivered their 924 Shock & Awe Series to do just that. We doubt that the "924" has anything to do with 924 Gilman Street, but we'd love to see what the teenage punkers hanging outside the club would think of these. In our day, they would've been done in like Jello Biafra. But the kids these days, with their Travis Barkers and whatnot, well, we just don't know. And that, frankly, makes us a little sad.

Ice Rims [via RideRoom]

Buy Dubs, Get Free Bentley [Internal]

Now That's Extreme Detailin': The $10,000 Car Wash

Ray Wert — Thu, 04 May 2006 10:30:00 EDT

We'd seen stories about this on the interwebs for a while now, but what makes things different today — is we've got the video to prove it. We knew we'd seen it on Fifth Gear and now someone's YouTube'ed it to prove it. Feast your eyes on Paul Dalton and his $10K car wash — now that's what we call gettin' cleaned out. Hi-HO! (Hat tip everyone who sent this one in)

London car wash costs $11,500 [news.com.au]

Related:
More workin' at the car wash [internal]

Jalopnik Late Night: Eagle One Takes On The Cheerleader Car Wash, With Nuns

David Thomas — Fri, 28 Apr 2006 00:59:31 EDT

We saw this over the weekend flipping between channels, laughed a bit, then forgot about it. But it is a pretty funny commercial and one of the few that begs the question: "Isn't it really icky that schools/churches/charities use underage girls in bikinis to raise money via a soapy car wash?" Notice how overage these cheerleaders look just so the company covers its ass. The nuns are a nice touch though for those that don't think like we do. And it could be much worse.

Related:
Are the Dodges Homophobes? [internal]

Mini Fans Have Too Many Stripes On Their Hands

David Thomas — Mon, 24 Apr 2006 14:03:54 EDT

I've driven Minis. I've seen hundreds of Minis. Yet I didn't know that the silly stripes they offer on the hood don't go on the roof. I just never paid that much attention and it made no sense to me, but because the roof is white and the body usually isn't, the stripes wouldn't be continuous. Mini has solved that issue with new stripes that also go on the roof. How do you get around the problem if say, you have a black Mini and white roof? You can do white stripes on the hood and black on the roof? Or just red all over.

MINI USA Introduces Sport Bonnet Stripes [MotoringFile]

Related:
Mini Traveller Spy Photos Aplenty [internal]