It Y o u W a y The multi-billion dollar aftermarket business was created for African Americans On Wheels (AAOW) magazine took two vehicles and gave them an urban flair — we customized to the max. Our transports of choice were the 2001 Mitsubishi Montero sport-utili­ ty vehicle, and the 2000 Jaguar S-Type sedan. Both rides have loads of jaunty- urban appeal. Getting the works was our basic, no- frills Montero, newly loaded with about $11,000 worth of accessories. The official vehicle of our non-profit safety campaign, "Why Can't We All Just Buckle Up?," the sport-ute has toured 10 U.S. cities, and has been widely used for seatbelt and car seat safety demonstrations. The Jaguar S-Type has about $6,000 worth of newly added extras. It, too, has been around, on display last December at the Washington, D.C. auto show, and most recently in February at the National Automobile Dealers Association's annual convention in Las Vegas. AAOW took on this customizing effort to highlight accessories that might be of interest to drivers, many of whom live in urban communities. Accessories varied for each vehicle, since it is crucial that no addition signifi­ cantly hamper driving performance. Kimatni Rawlins, project coordinator, offers this advice: "I wouldn't suggest loading everything that we did on the Montero because the added weight slowed down our vehicle. We just did it to draw as much attention to the vehicle as possible." Rawlins also encourages individuals to work with consultants when planning a lot of add-ons. "And if you have a problem with an accessory, you can send it back," Rawlins said. For more information on accessories, check out our Auto Details section in each issue of the magazine. If there is something you have ques­ tions about, e-mail Krawlins@onwheelsinc.com. African Americans On Wheels pie who wish to personalizo their vehicles to fit their lifestyles. J a g u a r S -T ÿ p e M its u b is h i M o n t e r o "U rb a n P re m ie r" T h e 2 0 0 1 S a f e t y U tility V e h ic le Cabriolet Top Wood Dash Roof Rack/Ladder Fog Lights Detailing E&G Classics Automax JAOS JAOS Nationwide Detailers w-ww.egclassic.com The soft-top roof might be old school for some, but for others, it just isn't urban if it's got a hard shell. 800-545-0400 Wood says luxury, so we wanted it all over our Jag. It already comes with some wood paneling, so be sure to match precisely. www.jaosusa.com Great for hauling extra luggage or cargo, and getting stuff up there is easier with the rear ladder. www.jaosusa.com Not only do fog lights enhance your ability to see at night, but they really give an SUV a distinctive look. 818-655-5042 No point in adding extras on a dirty vehicle. Keep it clean w-ith a top-notch detailer who knows how to pamper those expensive rims. Graphics Modern Image www-.modernimage.net Got a message you want to get out? Here is a way to do it with style. Rims Tires Rims Vogue Tyre Co. Vogue Tyre Co. www. vogue-tyre, com Make sure tires add to the ride and don't adversely affect performance. www.vogue-tyre.com The rims can make or break a vehicle, but in this case, our Jaguar becomes a true classic. Clarion ww-w.oasiswheels.com Some cars aren't complete if the rims aren't smokin'. There are literally hun­ dreds of styles to choose from, ranging in price from $50 to $2,000 each. 800-366-4567 Not loud enough? This particular sys­ tem included bigger speakers, two amplifiers and voice activation. Result: tripled sound. Tires Life Track Security 1-866-543-Life. www.Lifetrak.net The security system includes a sensor for 24-hour security service. If the vehi­ cle is in danger, a distress signal is dis­ patched once a call is made. Project Consultant Predelivery Service Corp. 800-368-8930 www. onwheelsinc. com Audio/Video Carmani/BDS Toyo Tires www.toyo.com Tires can improve or hamper the ride of a vehicle. Make sure what you add fits the build. U7?v Can't IVc all Just Buckle Up? Brush Guards Life Track Security JAOS 1-866-543-L ife. www.jaosusa.com Looks intimidating? You bet. But they also complement the fog lights. www-. Lifetrak.net The security system includes a sensor and tracking for 24-hour security sen- ice. If the vehicle is in danger, a distress signal is automatically dispatched. April/Mav 2001