Detailers

McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

Protecting An Italian Racing Masterpiece: The Maserati MCXtrema’s XPEL Treatment

By Sponsored Article – August 12, 2026

1-of-62 Maserati MCXtrema Gets XPEL Treatment

XPEL is a trusted name in the world of protecting the world’s rarest and most desirable cars, as are its Signature Partners. Recently, XPEL Signature Partner Sage Auto Studios in the Suncoast area of Florida was tasked with protecting an ultra-rare, racing-exclusive supercar. In April, Collector and racing driver Michael Moss took delivery of a Maserati MCXtrema, a track-only supercar from the legendary Italian luxury performance manufacturer with a strictly limited production run of just 62 examples. The car is the result of years of configuration and bespoke design work, with a stunning livery and beautiful details throughout, but that doesn’t mean that this rare Italian racer is destined for life as a garage queen that only appears at a track day once in a blue moon. GALLERY-EMBED We had the chance to attend the handover ceremony for the stunning supercar, which is where Moss told us that he plans to use his Maserati MCXtrema for competitive racing in the International GT series. Combining the intensity of competitive racing and the rarity of a 1-of-62 creation is a nail-biting idea, but that’s where XPEL comes in to help. Installed expertly by Sage Auto Studios, a suite of XPEL products was installed on the supercar to preserve its beauty even through its motorsport trials, including: XPEL Paint Protection Film for the full body Double-layered XPEL Paint Protection Film for the front, rocker panels, and diffuser XPEL Ceramic Coating XPEL Exterior Windshield Protection Film Thanks to XPEL’s state-of-the-art protection products and Sage Auto Studios’ installation expertise, the 1-of-62 Maserati MCXtrema is not only protected but prepared to withstand the competition that driver and collector Michael Moss is subjecting it to. With XPEL, the Maserati MCXtrema not only has the performance, power, and engineering capabilities of a racing masterpiece, but also the protection to keep up with an owner who is truly passionate about racing. Visit XPEL.com GALLERY-EMBED

By Sponsored Article – August 04, 2026

Protecting a Modern Ferrari Masterpiece

When it comes to preserving the world's most extraordinary automobiles, discerning owners trust XPEL, the global leader in paint protection film, ceramic coatings, and surface protection technologies. Through its network of elite XPEL Signature Dealers, only the industry's most accomplished installation specialists earn the privilege of representing the brand at its highest level. Among them is Buffalo Car Care, whose reputation for meticulous craftsmanship has grown to encompass multiple locations throughout New York, as well as a state-of-the-art facility in Orlando, Florida. Their commitment to precision made them the ideal choice to protect one of Ferrari's most celebrated modern grand touring machines—the breathtaking Ferrari F12tdf. GALLERY-EMBED Created as a tribute to the legendary Tour de France Automobile, the F12tdf represents the ultimate evolution of Ferrari's front-engine V12 lineage. Limited to just 799 examples worldwide, it features a naturally aspirated 6.3-liter V12 producing 769 horsepower, propelling the car from 0–60 mph in under three seconds while delivering one of the most exhilarating driving experiences ever engineered by Maranello. With its aggressive aerodynamics, rear-wheel steering, and race-inspired chassis, the F12tdf has already secured its place among Ferrari's most collectible modern classics. To preserve every sculpted surface and exquisite detail, Buffalo Car Care applied XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS Paint Protection Film to the entire vehicle, creating an invisible barrier against rock chips, road debris, and environmental damage while maintaining the Ferrari's stunning finish. The protection package was further enhanced with XPEL FUSION PLUS Ceramic Coatings, including Premium Paint Coating, Wheel & Caliper Coating, and Glass Coating, delivering exceptional gloss, easier maintenance, and long-lasting hydrophobic protection. Completing the installation, XPEL Windshield Protection Film was applied to help defend one of the vehicle's most vulnerable and expensive components against road hazards. GALLERY-EMBED For a Ferrari as exclusive as the F12tdf, preserving its beauty is every bit as important as celebrating its performance. Thanks to Buffalo Car Care's expertise and XPEL's industry-leading protection technologies, this remarkable Ferrari is prepared to look as extraordinary tomorrow as it does today. Visit XPEL.com Photo & Video: @jasonbelous

By duPont REGISTRY – July 20, 2026

How To Protect A Pagani Utopia: Ultra-Rare Hypercar Gets The XPEL Treatment

When it comes to safeguarding some of the world's most exclusive automobiles, discerning owners trust two names: XPEL and its elite network of Signature Partners. As a recognized XPEL Signature Partner, Detailing Dynamics of Mineola, New York, has earned a reputation for delivering meticulous protection solutions tailored to vehicles where perfection isn't optional, it's expected. Their latest masterpiece? A breathtaking Pagani Utopia, brilliantly photographed by Amatsu Media. GALLERY-EMBED Few vehicles command attention like the Pagani Utopia. Sculpted from exposed carbon fiber, powered by a hand-built twin-turbocharged V12, and produced in extremely limited numbers, the Utopia is more than transportation—it's an heirloom-grade collector car. Every surface, curve, and mechanical detail reflects Horacio Pagani's relentless pursuit of beauty and craftsmanship. In a world increasingly dominated by technology, the Utopia stands apart as a celebration of analog emotion, mechanical purity, and automotive artistry. For a vehicle of this caliber, protection isn't an afterthought—it's part of responsible ownership. To preserve the Utopia's extraordinary finish and safeguard its long-term value, Detailing Dynamics equipped the hypercar with a comprehensive suite of XPEL protection solutions, including: XPEL Ultimate Plus Full-Body Paint Protection Film XPEL Windshield Protection Film XPEL Fusion Ceramic Coating Front-End Impact Protection for vulnerable high-exposure surfaces Beyond paint and surface protection, the team at Detailing Dynamics also integrated a sophisticated stealth radar and laser defense system, providing an added layer of confidence for an owner who intends to enjoy the Utopia as it was meant to be driven. It's this holistic approach—combining world-class vehicle protection, advanced technology integration, and meticulous craftsmanship—that has helped establish Detailing Dynamics as one of XPEL's premier Signature Partners. GALLERY-EMBED The result is a vehicle that remains protected from rock chips, road debris, environmental contaminants, and the hazards of real-world driving without compromising the purity of Pagani's design. For collectors fortunate enough to own a machine as rare as the Utopia, preserving originality and condition is paramount. Protection products from XPEL help ensure that every mile can be enjoyed with confidence, while Detailing Dynamics' expertise ensures every installation meets the standards such an extraordinary automobile demands. Because when you're entrusted with protecting a multi-million-dollar Pagani, only the very best will do. Visit XPEL.com

By Sponsored Article – May 20, 2026

When Automotive Art Meets Invisible Armor: RWB NOHRA by XPEL

When a car like the RWB "NOHRA" arrives, a 1995 Porsche 911 Carrera reimagined by Rauh-Welt Begriff, the protection work has to match the build. That responsibility went to Chicago Auto Pros, an XPEL Signature Partner, where a full suite of XPEL products was carefully applied to preserve both the car's finish and its character. NOHRA is a direct reflection of RWB founder Akira Nakai's approach. His builds have reshaped what a Porsche can be, each one hand-crafted, personal, and genuinely one-of-one. They come together over a matter of days, but they tend to leave a lasting impression. GALLERY-EMBED Built on the 993-generation 911 and personally associated with Nakai-san himself, NOHRA carries more history than most. With only a limited number of RWB builds in existence, the widebody stance, exposed rivets, and unmistakable silhouette make it the kind of car that draws a crowd before the engine is even off. Chicago Auto Pros handles some of the most visually striking and valuable vehicles in the country, and their work on NOHRA reflects that experience. To lock in the car's bold look while adding a layer of transformation, the team applied XPEL Pantone Yellow Paint Protection Film across all painted surfaces, combining a dramatic color shift with durable, self-healing protection. XPEL Ultimate Plus Clear PPF keeps the headlights clear up front, while XPEL XR Black window tint, including the windshield, adds UV protection and a clean, cohesive finish throughout. GALLERY-EMBED The soft top received XPEL Fusion upholstery coating, and Fusion Premium V2 was applied over the PPF to enhance gloss, hydrophobic properties, and long-term durability. Dedicated Fusion coatings on the glass and wheels completed a full-vehicle approach that leaves no surface unaccounted for. The finished car captures everything RWB stands for, now with protection built to keep it that way. Visit XPEL.com

This Is What Happens When You Give a $1M Hypercar the Full XPEL Treatment

By Sponsored Article – March 23, 2026

How A Aston Martin Valhalla Gets The XPEL Treatment

When one of the world’s rarest hypercars arrives on American soil, every detail matters. Shortly after taking delivery of the extraordinary Plasma Blue Aston Martin Valhalla from Aston Martin Tampa Bay, the owner entrusted the specialists at Auto Paint Guard, an elite XPEL Signature Partner, to ensure the car’s flawless finish would remain protected for years to come. Their team applied XPEL Ultimate Plus Full Body Paint Protection Film, XPEL Windshield Protection Film, and XPEL Fusion Full Body Ceramic Coating, creating a comprehensive shield designed to defend every surface of this extraordinary hypercar from the rigors of the road while preserving its factory-perfect appearance. Born from Formula 1–inspired engineering and the unmistakable design philosophy of Aston Martin, the Valhalla represents the future of ultra-performance. With radical aerodynamics, a cutting-edge hybrid powertrain, and breathtaking proportions, it is more than simply another exotic. With only 999 examples scheduled for production worldwide, the Valhalla stands as one of the most exclusive modern hypercars ever created. Protecting such a rare machine requires expertise and products capable of preserving its beauty under real-world conditions. That responsibility was placed in the hands of Auto Paint Guard, a Tampa Bay company that has spent more than 20 years installing advanced automotive protection systems for some of the most valuable vehicles on the road. Their reputation for precision and craftsmanship has earned them designation as an XPEL Signature Partner, an honor reserved for installers who meet the brand’s highest standards. GALLERY-EMBED To safeguard the Valhalla’s sculpted carbon-fiber surfaces and dramatic body lines, Auto Paint Guard applied cutting-edge protection from XPEL. Known worldwide for its industry-leading paint protection films and coatings, XPEL technology forms an invisible shield against rock chips, road debris, scratches, and environmental damage—all while preserving the deep gloss and sharp lines that define the car’s design. For collectors and enthusiasts, protection of this caliber is more than cosmetic. Limited-production vehicles like the Valhalla represent both engineering brilliance and long-term value. With expert installation and advanced protection in place, this remarkable hypercar remains exactly as it should be—pristine, protected, and ready to be admired for generations. GALLERY-EMBED For anyone who owns a luxury or exotic vehicle, protecting the finish is not simply a cosmetic upgrade—it’s an essential part of responsible ownership. High-performance automobiles are engineered to be driven and admired, yet even routine road use exposes them to rock chips, scratches, and environmental damage that can quickly diminish their appearance and value. Advanced protection from XPEL creates an invisible shield that preserves the paint, maintains showroom-level gloss, and safeguards the craftsmanship beneath the surface. For enthusiasts and collectors alike, investing in professional-grade protection ensures that every mile can be enjoyed with confidence—while keeping these extraordinary machines looking exactly as their designers intended. Visit XPEL.com

By Edward Jones – May 07, 2020

Education & Technical Q&A With APEX Detail’s owner Daniel...

APEX Detail is a subsidiary of APEX Automotive Companies, comprised of APEX Detail, APEX Performance, APEX Auto Spa and APEX Events, located in Dallas, Texas. APEX is a luxury automotive services brand specializing in aesthetic automotive and performance customization, education and automotive networking events. In business since 1992 and with well over 50 years of combined experience between its team members, APEX is ready to handle any automotive customization its clients may dream up. Visit ApexAutoCo.com APEX Detail (AD): First let me say thank you for this opportunity to answer questions about professional automotive detailing and to provide some insight and education for your readers so they might make informed decisions concerning their automotive investments. APEX Detail specializes in the following services; Professional Automotive Detailing, Expert Paint Correction Services, Paint Protection Film (Clear Bra/PPF) Applications, Ceramic Coatings, Window Tinting and Vinyl Wraps and Accents. duPont REGISTRY (DR): You mentioned an Auto Spa, Performance, Education and Events. Can you elaborate? AD: Absolutely! APEX Automotive is a brand with a few different facets. In addition to our high-end detail division, APEX Detail, we have partnered with local luxury shopping centers to offer on-the-go detailing and hand car washing through our APEX Auto Spa division. Our performance division, APEX Performance, co-located at our headquarters with APEX Detail, specializes in performance modifications, both bolt-on and in-house fabricated performance parts. Everything from a simple intake and exhaust set-up to full-fledged custom turbo kits, to stand-alone engine control units and custom tuning. We host a monthly automotive education and technical session to inform potential customers on shopping for services at APEX Automotive. We tell them what to look for and what our particular products and services are all about. Finally, we run a series of events throughout the season to bring owners of exotic and ultra-luxury cars together to network. You may have heard of one of our events, Cars & Cannoli. It is the original and only private automotive networking event of its kind and we are lucky to get car owners from multiple states who attend each month. DR: Your APEX Detail tagline is Perfect. Protect. Preserve. Can you tell our readers what that means? AD: When I look at someone’s Ferrari or Lamborghini those are the three words that come to mind when I think about the care of that vehicle throughout ownership. We start by perfecting it, meaning detailing it, performing paint correction and eliminating any imperfections bringing the vehicle as close to perfect as possible. The next step is to protect the car, by applying exterior paint protection film or interior ceramic window film (window tinting). Finally, we preserve what we’ve perfected and protected by the application of products such as ceramic coating which locks it all in. DR: What is the difference between detailing and paint correction? AD: Automotive detailing consists of professionally cleaning the exterior and interior of the vehicle. There are many approaches to detailing, the end goal being to bring and to maintain the vehicle as close as possible to what it looked and smelled like when it came off the assembly line. Paint correction is the process of removing imperfections in the painted surfaces of the vehicle. DR: What should people know about paint correction services? AD: There are quite a few levels of paint correction services available to our clients and many professional seasoned detail facilities will offer similar services. The main focus of paint correction is to remove imperfections from the painted surfaces of the vehicle. This can be a complicated process consisting of wet sanding (color washing/color mopping) to remove the factory ‘orange peel’ or it can be a simple, less intensive process of polishing to remove micro-marring and surface swirl marks. I inform my customers the best way to look at the process is to imagine the imperfection in the paint as a valley between two mountain peaks. The process of paint correction is lowering those mountain peaks to match the level of the valley. Once that is done the imperfection disappears. The process of paint correction is the removal of material, in most cases that material is the clear coat surface on multi-stage paints. This analogy helps our customers better understand what this process is all about. Many people think paint correction is a process that can fix rock chips and deep scratches where you can’t see any painted color left. Those ‘valleys’ can’t be fixed by the removal of material since the valley goes all the way down to either the primer or substrate. In these situations, the only way to properly repair that type of imperfection to where it seems like it was never there, is to add material by respraying (highly recommended) or by using some form of paint touch-up. DR: Why Paint Protection Film (Clear Bra/PPF) and what should our readers know about it? AD: Automotive Paint Protection Film, sometimes called PPF/Clear Bra, is the only product on the market that is highly effective at protecting painted surfaces against rock chips, scratches, road debris, etc. If you’re searching for a true protection product then look no further than PPF. At typically 7-8 mils thick and with a self-healing topcoat, PPF can withstand impacts without showing any signs of damage. There are two types of installation methods in use today. Those methods are plotted kits or bulk, hand-trimmed applications. For the most part, bulk and hand-trimmed applications will provide the most coverage and look best when applied correctly and more effective than kit applications. The only way to shop for PPF, or any of the services discussed here, is to visit a few shops and take a look at their work. Get up close to the panels of the car, touch and feel the final product on the car so you can compare apples to apples. This is where you’ll see the major differences in quality and price point. High-end shops that focus on quality over quantity, which typically utilize the bulk and hand trimmed method, while they may cost more, the quality of the finished application will be clearly apparent. Ask to speak to the actual installer of the product, the person who would work on your car. Inquire about their experience . Shops that ‘kit’ everything and push multiple cars out in a day is where you may find the installers are younger with less than 5 years of experience. Those aren’t the installers you want working on your brand new $300k+ automobile. DR: It seems like there are literally 1000’s of ceramic coatings available today. What is a ceramic coating and why should our readers consider it? AD: You are right, it seems like another ceramic coating company pops up daily. Much of what’s on the market is ‘snake oil’ and doesn’t perform like the manufacture claims. I tell my clients not to believe all the things they see and read in online posts and videos. Our approach has been to test many of the leading products head to head and we’ve chosen to use the one that has outperformed the rest. Ceramic coatings work on a molecular level. They don’t have the protection aspects as 7-8 mils of PPF can provide, so we do not consider them a protection product or a replacement for PPF. This is evident because many of the major ceramic coating companies also produce PPF under their brand name which indicates that it isn’t a protection product. A ceramic coating is a maintenance product, not really a protection product. Managing client expectations on ceramic coatings, like all other products and services they are considering, is of utmost importance. Our explanation of the product is that it provides a surface on the vehicle that resists dirt and therefore can go for longer period between washes. When it’s time to wash the car or truck things wash off much more easily. The ceramic coating acts as a superficial layer on top of the substrate surface. However, many detailers and shops are purporting that ceramic coating is a “protection” product first and foremost, but that is just not true. I would steer clear of any shops that refer to ceramic coatings as “protection” products. DR: Window Films and Window Tinting, what’s the scoop there? AD: There are a few types of window films; dye-based films, hybrid films and ceramic/IR films. Here, in Texas, our installations mainly fall into the category of hybrid or ceramic/IR films as those provide the best heat rejection, which is the most important aspect of purchasing window film. Like with everything, you get what you pay for. This is the same when choosing a window film material. Dye-based films, while inexpensive, only provide privacy to the occupants in the vehicle at a legal tint level in the 30%-35% range. Hybrid films consist of both dyes and metals and provide a nice mix of both heat rejection properties and privacy at a reasonable price point. Finally, the IR/ceramic films provide the best heat rejection properties, while still providing the privacy most people are looking for. The choice of film material will really be based on your budget at the time of application and what the shop recommends based on vehicle use and what part of the country you live in. DR: Let’s talk vinyl wraps and accents, what does APEX provide here? AD: We have been wrapping cars for quite some time now. Whether a client is looking for a completely custom print or pattern design or a basic color change, we guide them from design to material selection, printing, and finally application. We routinely provide clients with chrome deletes using satin or gloss black vinyl to create a more stealth, modern and sporty look. Finally, I’d like to dispel the myth that vinyl wraps can be used in place of PPF for vehicle protection of the paint. This isn’t true at all since most vinyl wrap materials are roughly 1-1.5 mils thick or even less when stretched around corners. We always recommend PPF even with a wrap to provide the utmost vehicle protection. DR: Tell us a bit about how APEX Performance works along with APEX Detail. AD: Our performance division, APEX Performance, plays a key role in assisting APEX Detail perform its applications and services. It is great having various certified techs under the same roof to remove and replace parts on the car so we can professionally perform our services. Whether removing door handles and mirrors so we can apply our PPF without any visible edges or removing and torquing center-lock wheels on Porsches. APEX Performance certified techs play a key role in putting our clients at ease. It provides peace of mind for our customers knowing their cars are in very capable hands throughout the entire process and provides our clients a true one-stop-shop for all their automotive customization desires. APEX Detail also sells fully integrated radar and laser systems and offers powder coating options for wheels and color changes for brake calipers. Having APEX Performance under the same roof is key with these automotive customization modifications to make sure the wiring is done right, to make sure wheels and tires are properly balanced and mounted and to make sure calipers on the braking system are reinstalled to manufacturer specifications. DR: This has been a wonderful, informative discussion and quite an educational experience for our readers. Thank you very much for providing this insight as I know it will help our readers make better choices concerning their automotive customization projects. How can our readers get in touch with you to have APEX Automotive work on their cars or answer questions they may have? AD: Thank you so much for the opportunity to share with your readers what we do and how we do it, what to look out for and to point out some of the major items most people want for their vehicles. We have enjoyed many years of partnership as a member of DR’s Elite Detailer’s Alliance in the monthly issues of the magazine. For those readers who wish to send us their cars for high-quality automotive customization work please feel free to reach out to us either via email at info@ApexAutoCo.com or telephone at 855-998-APEX (2739) and use ext. #2 for Detail and #3 for Performance. Thank you, again, for this opportunity and I look forward to hopefully working with some of your readers in the future. For those who may be outside of the DFW Metroplex and would still like to receive the high-quality services we provide, we have solid relationships with a number of enclosed shipping providers and clients will routinely send us their cars from all over the country. Having worked on clients’ daily driven luxury sedans to one-off winners of Pebble Beach and other concours events, we are ready to earn your trust and business. Visit ApexAutoCo.com

By Andrew Nabors – August 07, 2018

Porsche Club of America Holds Exclusive Open House

Only the best detailers in the world are qualified to be in our Elite Detailers Alliance. This dedicated page in our magazine is almost 8 years old, and it features the best detailer in each state, and Maryland is represented by Reflected Images Custom Detailing. Their location is only 30 minutes from Baltimore in the town of Forest Hill. A majority of his clients are PCA members, so this year's Baltimore Auto Show included an open house at his shop.Reflected Images Custom Detailing- Porsche Tech SessionThe floors and walls are surgically clean, and the filtration on the HVAC will blow your mind. Every LED light has the same warm color temperature to highlight any imperfection. Porsche Club of America catered the event, so every attendee received our latest issue along with a few other goodies. His talents with Porsches are equally displayed on Corvettes and even a Ford F450A big thanks to the owner Brian Daly and his family for being a fixture in our magazine for over 5 years. To show what is involved in paint correction, he used a Guards Red Porsche 911 and a tape line to show before and after. The Cquartz Finest Reserve is the ultimate in ceramic coatings, so if you are ever going thru Maryland, stop by RFCD and tell them duPont REGISTRY sent you.Contact Reflected Images Here

By Edward Jones – May 10, 2018

Pro & Local Detailing Inc.

Phone Number: 413.883.0881Location: Western MA & Northern CTWebsite: www.proandlocal.com Email: proandlocal@gmail.com Facebook: Facebook.com/prolocaldetailing Instagram: @proandlocal Services: Full service detailing, interior reconditioning, ceramic coatings, Ceramic Pro, Opti-Coat Pro, Gtechniq certified. paint protection film, window tint, vinyl wrap, wheel repair, pointless dent repair, bumper repair, rock chip repair, paint touch up, car audio & fabrication, automotive security & remote starter, custom detailing, concourse & exotic car detailing, new car prep, pre-sale cleaning.Pro & Local detailing is an award-winning detailing company based out of Western MA & Northern CT. Our knowledgeable team will be available to service your vehicle while providing a unique experience, unlike any other detail company.https://www.instagram.com/p/BiqTOTkFUok/Pro & Local offers fully mobile service at your home, workplace or even the golf course! You can also make an appointment to drop off at one of our two shop locations. We offer complimentary pickup/drop off or if you prefer, a ride back home.https://www.instagram.com/p/BilT40ElV3l/?taken-by=proandlocalOur goal is simple, we listen to your specific needs and deliver on them. Building an exceptional level of trust & reliability is important to us. We could bore you by talking about how we have completed many intense training courses from Meguiars or Renny Doyle, and how we are on the Air Force One detailing team, but we want to hear about you! Building relationships with our clients is our priority. We can asses your vehicle, figure out what service would fit the situation best and explain our process so you know exactly what you’re getting. If you value quality craftsmanship and unbeatable customer service go with “Your Local Professionals”

By Edward Jones – April 09, 2018

Autobuf

Name: Autobuf Fine Detailing and Restyling Location: 1063 Sydenham Road Kingston, Ontario Canada K7M 3L8 Services: - Premium Interior & Exterior Detailing - Paint Correction - Authorized IGL Kenzo Installer - Suntek Window Tint - Suntek Paint Protection Film - Wheel repair - Paintless Dent Removal - Restorative Detailing - Custom striping & Vinyl wrapping - Concierge Service - Custom Restyling - Leather repair & dying Phone Number: 613-384-2629 Website: www.autobuf.com Email: info@autobuf.com Facebook: @Autobuf Instagram: @autobuf_restyling Your vehicle is our passion and that is what drives our team to succeed. At Autobuf we provide a unique approach to each vehicle assuring the utmost precision that exceeds expectations. Knowledge is key when it comes to fine detailing and restyling. As a SEMA PRO & SEMA Member we are constantly up to date on the latest trends and products. With this knowledge, we meet your needs while providing a quality product that will take your vehicle to the next level of satisfaction. The best compliment a client can give is trusting us with their investment. With 30 years of service, Autobuf can assure you that our customer service is as impeccable as your vehicle will be at the end of the day.

By Edward Jones – November 30, 2017

Scotty's Shine Shop

Services:·Detailing·Paint & Leather Coatings·Paint Correction·Paint Protection Film·Window Tinting·Paintless Dent Removal·Headlight Restoration·Odor RemovalWebsite: shineshop.ca Email: info@shineshop.ca Phone: 519.434.2922Address:290 Horton Street EastLondon, ON N6B1L4Instagram: @shineshop Facebook: @scottysshineshop At Scotty’s Shine Shop we believe service and quality have become forgotten in the name of low cost and cheaper products. We strive to restore a higher standard in our shop that focuses on quality work and craftsmanship and superior customer service. These old fashioned values have helped distinguish Scotty’s Shine Shop as one of the leading auto detailing shops in Canada. Scotty’s Shine Shop was formed in 1993 by Scott and Bob Perkin with a goal of providing London and the surrounding area with top notch car cleaning and detailing services. Scotty’s Shine Shop is a professional company that brings a talent and passion for “Detailing” to you. We have over 23 years experience in the auto detailing industry and we are committed to being London’s leading auto detailing shop. Unlike other “detailers”, all our employees are fully trained using professional standards so you can rest assured your vehicle will be in the hands of a true professional. One of our most important goals is to provide you with service that is personalized to your individual needs. We only provide the services that you require. We will give you our honest opinion on your car’s condition, along with our ideas on how to improve it. We don’t profess to be magicians, but we have been known in the past to work some magic. Scotty’s Shine Shop’s philosophy is truly unique. We never overbook our clients and when we’re finished, we leave nothing behind but a perfect shine! With “detailers” and car wash facilities on almost every street corner, you may ask yourself “Why choose Scotty’s Shine Shop for my car care needs?” These are just a few reasons why: – Professional service and products = professional results – Convenient downtown location – London’s only IDA trained and certified detailers – Fully insured – We have over 23 years of professional experience – Our personal guarantee Our Personal Guarantee: What’s important to us is that you are completely satisfied. Our continued growth and success begins and ends with your satisfaction. If for any reason you are not satisfied with our service, please speak to Scott Perkin and we will resolve the issue quickly. We guarantee it! Your vehicle takes great care of you; why not give it a little TLC. Indulge a little; with Scotty’s Shine Shop you’ll receive the ultimate in what auto detailing should be.

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