A client of ours from West Vancouver recently dropped into Ralph’s Radio to discuss options for a radar detector and audio system upgrade for his brand-new 2018 Land Rover Range Rover. After seeing some of the work we’ve done on other Range Rovers through one of the local owners’ groups, he knew we could deliver the features we wanted while being careful with his luxury SUV.
Custom-Installed Range Rover Radar Detector and Laser Defense System
One of our product specialists worked with the client to develop an understanding of the specific features he wanted in the radar detector system so that we could provide a perfect solution. When the client mentioned protection against the dreaded Dragoneye Lidar gun, we knew right away that an Escort MAX CI 360 was the right solution.
The MAX CI 360 includes dedicated front and rear radar receivers and four laser transducers. Our team of technicians created acrylic plastic brackets to accurately mount and aim each of the Laser ShifterMax sensors. Once in place, we tested the functionality of the system using our Dragoneye laser gun and a conventional radar gun.
Inside the vehicle, our fabrication team mounted the display for the MAX CI 360 at the forward edge of the overhead console so that it would be clearly visible without being obtrusive. The control panel for the Escort system is tucked neatly under the main part of the dash and to the left of the center console. It’s easily accessible while driving so the client can cancel the laser defense system once he’s sure he’s traveling at a legal speed.
Cell Phone Signal Booster
The client mentioned that he was having problems with cell phone reception. We’ve installed thousands of signal boosters in offices and vehicles, and we knew right away what would solve his problem. Our team integrated a Wilson weBoost Drive 4G-X 690WI470510 into the vehicle. The system provides as much as 50 dB of signal gain for a range increase of up to 60 percent. This improved reception works with both data and voice connections and is compatible with all carriers should he travel to the United States.
Thinkware Video Recording System
The client wanted a dash camera system for the vehicle to capture the behaviour of other drivers and to monitor the vehicle when parked. We mounted a Thinkware F800PRO two-channel camera system in the vehicle. Because the client travels a lot, we added a Shuriken BTX20L-BS to act as a dedicated battery to power the camera whenever the vehicle is parked. A Blue Sea Batterylink isolation relay connects the Shuriken secondary battery to the main electrical system when the truck is running so the alternator can charge both at the same time.
The F800PRO captures audio and video from in front of and behind the vehicle while driving and when parked. The system uses an integrated GPS receiver to store vehicle location and speed information, and an accelerometer captures vehicle motion information.
Range Rover Audio Upgrade
The last part of the project was to address the audio system in the Range Rover. As with even the most elaborate of premium audio solutions, the stereo system in the vehicle lacked the ability to produce deep, authoritative bass. Our fabrication team created a custom subwoofer enclosure for a pair of Audison Prima APS-10D subwoofers. The enclosure is finished in black carpet and features a vinyl-wrapped front accent panel that picks up on the red leather accents in the vehicle.
The subwoofer system is powered by a Rockford Fosgate T750X1bd monoblock amp that will produce up to 750 watts of power for the pair of subwoofers. We used a Wavtech Link-D speaker-level interface to convert the output of the factory amplifier into a low-voltage signal that the Rockford amp would accept. The Link-D also provides a remote turn-on output to activate the new amp as soon as the factory radio is turned on.
Luxury Vehicle Safety and Convenience Upgrades
With the upgrades installed, configured and tested, the client returned to Ralph’s Radio in Vancouver to pick up the vehicle. He was thrilled with audio system upgrade and thankful for the radar detector and video camera system in his Range Rover. If you are interested in upgrading the features and technology of your vehicle, drop by our store in Vancouver or Victoria, or send us an e-mail using our contact page to schedule a personalized consultation.