
THE AUTO BUILDER
Featured

DOME ALONE
Dave Shuten is a time traveler. Traveling through time is what he likes to do best, but looking at his latest creation we can’t tell if his time travel machine is moving forward or back in time. Here’s the real dilemma: If you’re advancing a trend that ended in the early ’60s, are you traveling forward in time or back? One thing is certain: Dave Shuten loves to visit the golden era of show cars; after all, he’s the guy who did such an awesome job of cloning the Mysterion, an Ed Roth creation that was ultimately parted out and destroyed, only to live again through the efforts of Dave Shuten.

Subtle Yet Savage
This 1994 Chevy ½ Ton isn’t just another slammed truck built to win trophies—it’s got a job to do, and it’s built to do it right. Originally started over a decade ago as a hauler for café racers, this single cab, short bed rig morphed into a legit Pro Touring machine. But here’s the twist: the builder didn’t want anything flashy. This truck’s about subtlety, where the real magic reveals itself the closer you get. Every panel, every mod, it’s all dialed in so nothing steals the show—but together, it’s something you won’t forget.

Product Spotlight: Dynamat Xtreme Bulk Pack
If your ride still sounds like a tin can at speed, it’s time to get serious. Dynamat Xtreme isn’t a luxury add-on — it’s a foundational upgrade for builders who want their cars to feel tight, solid, and finished. This is the same material trusted in high-end customs, competition cars, and OE applications for one simple reason: it works.
Spotlighter
POPULAR READS
Epic Adventurer
Hypertech's Ultimate Ford Bronco Sport Overlander is More Than Capable
Author
The AutoBuilder Staff
Words & Photography
In the realm of off-road adventures, few vehicles command the same level of respect and admiration as the Ford Bronco. Harking back to its origins over half a century ago, the Bronco has remained synonymous with rugged exploration and uncompromising agility. Now, in a bold move that redefines the off-road experience, Ford reintroduced the Bronco Sport SUV, marrying heritage with modern innovation. Many people consider the Bronco Sport to be the baby brother of the full size Bronco. This build by Hypertech and LeachCo looks more than capable of keeping up with its big brother.
The journey to create the ultimate off-road vehicle was one of passion and dedication. “We were excited to be able to create the ultimate off-road experience with a modern version of this heritage off-roading vehicle brand,” expressed the team behind the project. Their goal was clear: to capture the essence of the iconic Bronco while elevating it to new heights, making the adventure accessible to all.
Enter the Custom Ford Bronco Sport Badlands edition, a marvel of engineering and design that pushes the boundaries of off-road capability. At its core lies the 2022 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands, powered by a robust 2.0L I4 EcoBoost engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission. But what truly sets this vehicle apart is the meticulous customization that transforms it into the Ultimate Base Camp vehicle.
From its exterior enhancements to its interior comforts, every aspect of the Custom Bronco Sport Badlands has been carefully curated to deliver an unparalleled off-road experience. Ford Performance off-road underbody rock lights illuminate the path ahead, while a LockNLoad roof rack system by Yakima provides ample storage for all your adventure gear. With a SkyRise HD tent and an awning also by Yakima, the vehicle becomes a sanctuary amidst the wilderness, offering refuge after a day of exploration.
But it’s not just about conquering rough terrain; it’s about doing so in style. Custom vinyl wrap color enhancements and unique pinstripes add a touch of flair, ensuring that the Custom Bronco Sport Badlands stands out wherever it roams. Meanwhile, Ford Accessories such as neoprene seat covers and a first aid kit prioritize comfort and safety, underscoring the vehicle’s versatility. A custom Borla cat-back exhaust system with black chrome tips delivers enhanced performance, while RIGID Industries Lighting ensures visibility in even the most challenging conditions. From Radiance+ LED light bars to SAE fog lights, the Custom Bronco Sport Badlands leaves no corner of the trail unexplored.
This extraordinary vehicle is the culmination of collaboration and innovation, brought to life by LeachCo of Dayton, Tennessee. Their commitment to excellence shines through in every detail, from the rugged exterior to the comfortable interior amenities. As a result, the Hypertech Bronco Sport Badlands redefines what it means to embark on an off-road adventure, inviting enthusiasts of all backgrounds to experience the thrill of exploration like never before.
Specifications
BASE VEHICLE
- 2022 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands
- 2.0L I4 EcoBoost engine
- 8-speed automatic transmission
POWERTRAIN
Custom Borla cat-back exhaust with black chrome tips
EXTERIOR
Ford Performance off-road under body rock lights – Amber by RIGID Industries
Ford Performance GOAT emblem
Ford Accessories
- LockNLoad roof rack system by Yakima
- SkyRise HD tent by Yakima
- Awning by Yakima
- Fender flares
- Rear roof spoiler
- Paint protection Film
- Hitch receiver plug w/Bronco logo
Ford Bronco Sport “Heritage” emblems
Yakima high-lift jack holder
Yakima Timberline towers
RIGID Industries Lighting
- Radiance+ 50” amber backlight
- Radiance+ 30” amber backlight
- Radiance+ 20” LED lightbar
- 360 Series LED off-road lights
- SAE fog lights
Customs vinyl wrap color enhancement
Custom pinstripe
INTERIOR
Ford Performance
- 47QT ZERO fridge/freezer by ARB
- Portable air compressor kit by ARB
- Off-road recovery kit by Warn
Ford Accessories
- Cargo area liner
- All-Weather floor liners
- Center console in-vehicle safe
- Rear seat in-vehicle safe
- First aid kit
- Roadside assistance kit
- Front seat pet barrier
- Molle bags
- Jump start kit
- Neoprene seat covers
- Black Platinum door sill plates
- Exterior area lighting and speaker
CREATED BY
- LeachCo, LLC
ARTICLE SOURCES
BF Goodrich Tires
P.O. Box 19001
Greenville, S.C. 29602-9001
1-866-212-9619
Fab Fours Inc.
2213 Industrial Park Rd.
Lancaster, SC 29720
866-385-1905
Fifteen52
1010 East Carson Street
Carson CA 90745
213-373-1552
Ford Performance
P.O. Box 6248
Dearborn, MI 48126
800-392-3673
Hypertech
7375 Adrianne PL
Bartlett, TN 38133-8958
901-385-1888
Rigid Industries
779 N.Colorado St.
Gilbert, AZ 85233
855-760-5337
Yakima
4101 Kruse Way
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
888-925-4621







