Car Chat

Daniel Van Doveren is the founder of Vigilante 4x4, a Jeep Restomod Company based in the USA. Here is an excerpt from our longer podcast which you can find on your podcasts platform (apple, spotify etc.)Audio Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/daniel-van-doveren-vigilante-4x4-restomodding-iconic/id1432553826?i=1000652490521https://www.vigilante4x4.com/ Enjoy, Sam

In this episode of Car Chat, join host Sam Moores as he delves into the fascinating world of classic Jeep restorations and restomods with Daniel Van Doveren. With Dutch and Swedish roots, Daniel shares his journey from tech entrepreneur to founder of Jeep Heritage and Vigilante 4x4, renowned for transforming vintage Jeeps into modern masterpieces.This conversation takes us from Daniel's early adventures in tech to his passion-driven pivot towards automotive restoration. Discover how road trips across the US in cheap, often quirky Jeeps sparked the inception of Jeep Heritage. Daniel discusses the meticulous process of revamping these iconic vehicles, emphasising the blend of traditional charm and cutting-edge technology that sets his work apart.From scanning original Jeep models in 3D to integrating modern drivetrains and luxurious finishes, Daniel's approach to restoration marries nostalgia with innovation. This episode not only explores the technical aspects of restoration but also dives into the business side, discussing how maintaining a small-scale operation allows for creativity and personal touch in every project.Whether you're a car enthusiast or just curious about the transformation of classic cars into bespoke creations, this episode offers a deep dive into the art and science of automotive restoration.You can explore more about Daniel's work with Jeep Heritage and Vigilante through the following links:Jeep Heritage: https://www.jeepheritage.com/Vigilante: https://www.vigilante4x4.com/For enthusiasts looking to dive deeper into the world of restomod Jeeps, Daniel's companies offer a unique insight into the meticulous care and innovative engineering that go into each vehicle.Show Notes:00:00 - Introduction and Background01:36 - Starting Jeep Heritage and Vigilante02:18 - Moving to the US and Starting Jeep Heritage08:06 - Memorable Road Trips23:17 - Choosing the Level of Restoration27:35 - Design and Engineering Process27:59 - Scanning Parts and 3D Printing30:29 - Fine-tuning the Vehicle and Improvements30:59 - The History of the Grand Wagoneer32:25 - Developing Vigilante and Upgrades41:36 - Specs and Pricing42:59 - Popular Specs and Engine Choices43:52 - Understanding Customer Needs45:09 - Engine Options and Performance45:52 - Increasing Female Audience47:51 - Suspension and Airbags49:00 - Building a Limited Number of Cars55:33 - Demand for Restomods in Europe56:01 - Regulations and Building for Europe59:15 - Maintaining Quality and Personalization1:00:19 - Limitations of Restomodding1:00:50 - The Role of OEMs in Testing1:00:55 - Challenges in Achieving Perfection1:01:12 - Advice for Individuals Considering a Mod Project1:01:59 - Safety Considerations in Restomodding1:02:32 - The Importance of Safety in Restorations1:03:39 - Five Questions

A short extract from the full episode with Rowan Hick of GlobalWorkshop discussing his personal sim building journey from a humble gaming setup to building a full G force rig. Check out the full episode #198 here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/car-chat/id1432553826Video: https://youtu.be/y6hEotIQTyMEnjoy,Sam

In this episode of Car Chat, host Sam Moores talks with Rowan Hick, the founder of Global Workshop, a platform designed to assist in the management of vehicle builds, restorations, and races. Rowan discusses the origins of Global Workshop, detailing how personal necessity led to the creation of a system that simplifies the management of complex vehicle projects for enthusiasts and professionals.Additionally, Rowan shares his personal journey in the automotive world, from modifying a Fraser Clubman to pushing the boundaries of home racing simulators. With a background in software development, Rowan's transition into the automotive sector highlights the merging of technological innovation with automotive passion.This episode provides insights into the nuanced world of vehicle restoration and project management, reflecting on the challenges faced and the solutions developed by those deeply embedded in the craft. Listen in for a detailed discussion on the intersection of technology, personal passion, and automotive craftsmanship with Sam Moores and Rowan Hick.Enjoy,https://www.globalworkshop.com/Show Notes:00:00 = Intro13:18 = Evolution Of The App18:00 = Use Cases23:01 = Speccing The Fraser26:32 = Rowan's Automotive Journey30:53 = Driving And Racing In NZ34:43 = Driving The Frazer37:58 = Rowan's Sim56:54 = The Future Of Global Workshop1:03:52 = Tailoring The App1:11:00 = 5 Questions

In today's digital world, how do you stand out when technology and creativity merge?Faruk Heplevent, who started Scope Studio, leads the way in car CGI, film, and photo production. He joins us to share his story from taking photos around the world to leading a company at the cutting edge of digital creativity in the car industry. We'll dive into Scope Studio's exciting project, Scope City, a digital city that's a perfect place for showing off cars.https://thescope.studio/In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Meet Faruk Heplevent and learn how Scope Studio began.(02:15) Moving from taking photos to leading in CGI technology.(04:22) How CGI is changing car ads and the creation of Scope City.(06:20) A look at how Scope City was made.(11:09) The challenges of working with CGI in car production.(14:18) The freedom and accuracy CGI brings to showcasing cars.(22:42) How AI and new tech are changing the game in digital creativity.(28:05) Finding the balance between new tech and creative vision.(35:46) Why CGI is a greener choice compared to traditional photo shoots.(41:17) How digital marketing in the car world is evolving.(49:43) Imagining what's next for CGI in the car industry.(52:34) Faruk's final thoughts and what's next for Scope Studio.Faruk's story gives us a thrilling look at how technology, creativity, and the car world come together. This episode is a must for car fans and creative pros.Check out the youtube video: https://youtu.be/hVqisk1fMzkCome join us on Car Chat as we zoom into the digital future with Faruk Heplevent.

Craig Toone is the founder of Rush Magazine - a new print magazine celebrating the best iconic modern classics & performance cars. https://www.rushmagazine.co.uk/Enjoy, SamShow Notes:0:00 - Intro4:38 - How to start a magazine19:50 - The perks of running a magazine26:10 - Automotive background32:22 - Big surprises35:31 - Imposter syndrome and authentic experiences 47:57 - Car Of The Year56:38 - Issue #21:00:37 - How much content do you need for a magazine? 1:07:14 - Fun, cheaper EVs (please)1:11:12 - 5 Questions 

Paul Woodman, the founder of Lovecars, an automotive media powerhouse, sits down with me to share his journey from the company's inception to its current success, including producing the series "On The Road," now streaming on Amazon Prime. We delve into the origins of his passion for cars, the challenges and triumphs of bringing automotive stories to life on screen, and the memorable experiences of filming across the globe. Join us as Paul opens up about his favorite cars, the excitement of racing, and navigating the complex world of social media, all while building a brand that resonates with car enthusiasts everywhere.Watch the video ep here: https://lovecars.com/https://www.instagram.com/lovecars/Enjoy,SamShow Notes:0:00 - Intro5:35 - Early success of Lovecars11:53 - Opportunity vs revenue19:20 - Ideal audience22:38 - Starting a TV series33:30 - Lovecars On The Road45:45 - TV highlights49:44 - Filming in America vs UK53:23 - Top 3 Cars Driven55:49 - Caterham racing and sponsorship1:01:33 - F1 chat1:06:00 - Drag racing1:10:49 - Social media woes1:16:08 - 5 questions

It's always great to catch up with Iain Litchfield, founder of Litchfield Motors. Litchfield Motors started off importing JDM cars (listen to our first podcast here) We have a catchup and discuss the GT-R world of today, tuning cars, the expansion of Litchfield, dampers and a whole lot more.https://www.litchfieldmotors.com/Enjoy,SamShow Notes:0:00 - Intro5:01 - Litchfield and GTRs10:57 - In-house parts13:46 - Current demand19:17 - Working on Porsches26:33 - New M cars28:58 - GT3 Touring and GT434:03 - Custom dampers36:33 - 992 Tuning40:24 - Hybrids, EVs, and synthetic fuel46:51 - GT3RS58:37 - Jethro’s 9961:06:48 - 5 Questions 

Chris Tolman is the founder of Tolman Engineering. Chris has an extensive background in rallying and running race teams and has brought this knowledge into his Peugeot 205 Tolman Editions. From running the McLaren driver development cars to Bentley GT3s, there is a wealth of knowledge. In this episode, we sit down with Chris Tolman, the founder behind Tolman Engineering, to explore the thrilling world of motorsport engineering and team management. From the foundational connections in rally racing to the intricate details of running a race team, Chris shares his invaluable experiences and the skills required to excel in this high-octane environment.Dive into the heart of racing as we discuss the challenges and triumphs of managing the McLaren Driver Development Program, and what it takes to race a McLaren at the highest levels. Chris also sheds light on his diverse experience with racing Genettas, Bentleys, rally cars, and more, revealing the critical differences between road car and race car engineering.At the 28:39 mark, get an exclusive look into "The Tolman 205" project, followed by a discussion on keeping racing ventures economical without compromising on performance. Chris emphasizes the importance of the customer experience in motorsport and outlines the ambitious goals of the Evo project.Wrapping up the episode, we have the 5 questions.Enjoy, Samhttps://tolmanengineering.co.uk/Show Notes:0:00 - Intro4:32 - Connections in rally 6:05 - Skills building on a race team8:19 - Running the Mclaren Driver Development Program 17:33 - Challenges of racing a Mclaren19:26 - Running Genettas, Bentleys, rally cars etc26:21 - Difference between road car and race car engineering 28:39 - The 20542:55 - Keeping it economical48:14 - Customer experience52:55 - The goal of the Evo1:04:41 - 5 questions