From Garage Dream to Custom Reality: Your Detroit Speed Build Journey

It all began in a two-car garage, fueled by passion and a '69 Camaro.  That's where the Detroit Speed story started, with a commitment to crafting exceptional vehicles. Today, that same drive and dedication fuels our Project Shop, where we transform automotive dreams into reality.

This blog post takes you behind the scenes, revealing the step-by-step process of how we build custom cars. Whether you're envisioning a ground-up build or a restoration that redefines classic cool, our team of expert craftsmen will guide you every step of the way.

Ready to see how your dream car can become a Detroit Speed masterpiece? Let's dive in!

1. Initial Inquiry

The journey begins with a simple inquiry. You can reach out to Detroit Speed with your vision using the form linked below, and they'll guide you through the initial steps.

Custom Car Build Inquiry

2. The Interview

Once you've expressed interest, a detailed interview follows. This is where you'll discuss:

• Your vision: What kind of car do you envision?
• Budget: What's your financial plan for the project?
• Timeline: When do you hope to see the car completed?
• Vehicle sourcing: Will you provide the vehicle, or will Detroit Speed assist in finding one?

3. Project Agreement

A formal agreement is drafted to outline the specifics of the project, including costs, timelines, and expectations. A deposit is typically required to secure your spot in the build queue.

4. Rendering and Planning

Before the actual build commences, Detroit Speed creates detailed renderings to visualize the final product. This stage involves:

• Design discussions: Refining the design based on your feedback.
• Part sourcing: Identifying and sourcing necessary components.
• Budgeting: Finalizing the budget to ensure it aligns with your vision.

5. Receiving the Vehicle

Once the planning phase is complete, your vehicle arrives at the Detroit Speed facility. A thorough inspection is conducted to assess its condition and identify any potential issues.

6. Teardown and Cataloging

The vehicle is disassembled, and each component is carefully cataloged and stored. This meticulous process ensures that every part is accounted for during the rebuild.

7. Blasting

The bare metal of the vehicle is subjected to a blasting process to remove any rust or old paint. This step prepares the surface for the next stage.

8. Fabrication

The heart of the build, fabrication involves:

• Custom metalwork: Shaping and molding metal to create unique components.
• Welding: Joining metal parts to form the car's structure.
• Test fitting: Ensuring all components fit together seamlessly.

9. Mockup Stage

The fabricated components are assembled to create a rough mockup of the car. This allows for final adjustments and ensures that the overall design and proportions are accurate.

10. Wiring

The electrical system is meticulously installed, ensuring all components function correctly.

11. Bare Metal Photo Shoot

Before the paint job, a photo shoot is conducted to document the bare metal state of the car.

12. Paint and Bodywork

The vehicle undergoes a meticulous painting process, including:

• Bodywork: Repairing any imperfections and shaping the body panels.
• Primer application: Applying a primer coat to prepare the surface for paint.
• Paint application: Spraying multiple layers of high-quality paint.
• Sanding and buffing: Polishing the paint to a mirror-like finish.

13. Assembly

The painted body is reassembled, and interior components are installed.

14. Final Adjustments and Testing

The car undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it meets Detroit Speed's high standards. This includes:

• Engine tuning: Optimizing the engine performance.
• Road testing: Evaluating the car's handling and performance.

15. Delivery

Once the car is fully assembled and tested, it's ready for delivery to its proud owner.

Detroit Speed's commitment to quality and attention to detail is evident in every step of the build process. If you're dreaming of a custom car, consider partnering with them to bring your vision to life.