Daniel Van Doveren | Vigilante 4x4 - Restomodding Iconic Jeeps

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 Background 01:36 - Starting Jeep Heritage and Vigilante 02:18 - Moving to the US and Starting Jeep Heritage 08:06 - Memorable Road Trips 23:17 - Choosing the Level of Restoration 27:35 - Design and Engineering Process 27:59 - Scanning Parts and 3D Printing 30:29 - Fine-tuning the Vehicle and Improvements 30:59 - The History of the Grand Wagoneer 32:25 - Developing Vigilante and Upgrades 41:36 - Specs and Pricing 42:59 - Popular Specs and Engine Choices 43:52 - Understanding Customer Needs 45:09 - Engine Options and Performance 45:52 - Increasing Female Audience 47:51 - Suspension and Airbags 49:00 - Building a Limited Number of Cars 55:33 - Demand for Restomods in Europe 56:01 - Regulations and Building for Europe 59:15 - Maintaining Quality and Personalization 1:00:19 - Limitations of Restomodding 1:00:50 - The Role of OEMs in Testing 1:00:55 - Challenges in Achieving Perfection 1:01:12 - Advice for Individuals Considering a Mod Project 1:01:59 - Safety Considerations in Restomodding 1:02:32 - The Importance of Safety in Restorations 1:03:39 - Five Questions

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