Our last feature vehicle of the 2007 season got a bit of late start on life as a Wheel Experts demo vehicle. Originally acquired by the company in April of 2006, this particular Range Rover Supercharged finished in Zermatt Silver metallic with ebony leather interior and piano black trim, was purchased new from Mike McGovern at Land Rover Dallas and was used primarily as a daily driver. The only aftermarket addition during the first year of service was a set of 22” brushed Modulare M3 wheels mounted on 285/35/22 Toyo Proxes ST tires. When the odometer hit 12,000 miles, we decided it was time for an overhaul.
With some aftermarket rolling stock already in place, we proceeded to the rest of the exterior modifications. An Overfinch full aero styling pack, consisting of a front add-on spoiler, side skirts, rear under tray with diffuser, exhaust tips, and roof spoiler, was expertly prepped, painted, and installed by the crew over at Stuart’s Paint and Body in Dallas, TX. The polyurethane-based parts conformed to the body nicely and needed only minimal prep time to make for a quick and easy install. The aero enhancements, while subtle, drastically improved the look of the truck, adding a bit of sportiness and pizzazz without going over the top.
While the truck was receiving its makeover at Stuart’s, we entered into negotiations with Modulare Wheels about possibly adding an exclusive 24” style for SUVs, both 5 and 6 lug compatible, to the existing Modulare lineup. After reviewing some potential styles, we decided on an 8-spoke design which would eventually become the new Modulare M8. Since we had the Range Rover project already in the works at the time, we decided to use the freshly revamped truck as the launch point for the new wheel. After computing a proper 24” fitment which would clear the large factory Brembo brake calipers but still fit under the fenders properly, we proceeded to order a set of new M8 in a 24x10 configuration in the brushed aluminum finish, and upon receipt, mounted them on 285/30/24 Pirelli P Zero Nero rubber at all four corners. This wheel/tire combo fit the truck perfectly as the results speak for themselves – no modifications were necessary and the new style sets the truck off nicely.
Many thanks to those involved with the project, including (but not limited to): Mike McGovern at Land Rover Dallas, Stuart and crew at Stuart’s Paint and Body, Mark at Overfinch USA, and last but not least, Ryan and crew from Modulare Wheels. This wraps up an exciting year of feature vehicles for us this year – stay tuned for even more exciting features in 2008. |
