If you haven’t heard of Urban Automotive before, let me fill you in…
This unique automotive dealer started just three years ago from a double garage at home and within that time has progressed into the impressive establishment it is today. The goal is to deliver distinctive modifications that are not only cost effective, but tasteful and completely individual. They provide the most personal and relaxed buying experience and are all experts in what they do.
At A-Plan Specialist we are always keen to partner with businesses who provide bespoke motoring solutions to the enthusiast market, we understand insuring niche vehicles can sometimes be hard work, and we are here to make insurance easy!
I paid a visit to their impressive operation in Milton Keynes and was lucky enough to speak to Lee, one of the founders of the company to find out a little bit more about what they’re up to.
1) So Lee, where did the inspiration for the business come from?
‘Myself and Simon had worked in very different sectors previously and had come to a point where we wanted a change. Cars and modifications had always been a big hobby for us and it was this passion that led to starting an automotive business.’
2) And why did you choose Land Rovers?
‘We started with selling sports and performance cars previously known as Nurburg Ltd. This was proving to be difficult and saw how much companies were charging for modified Defenders so we decided to buy one and have a go. We researched all the parts existing modifiers were using and applied them to our own build. Working on a fair margin we were marketing the vehicle for considerably less than others and it sold within a week. We did this to a further two defenders which again sold instantly. We contacted Land Rover and presented our vision. We were accepted for terms and Urban Truck was born. In January 2016, Land Rover Defenders ceased production and since then we have focused our attention to Land Rovers, Range Rover Sport and Range Rover Vogue. These now have their own uniquely designed Urban body kits.’
3) What are the company’s main aims?
‘Our aim is always to design and produce bespoke aftermarket products which look and fit like they should have come out of the factory that way. Creating excellent long term relationships with both customers and suppliers is paramount to our success.’
4) What is your favourite project you have done with Urban?
‘Recreating the Spectre edition defender from the Bond Film. We used all the genuine parts to replicate this and took it to Autosport International Show Birmingham in Jan 2017.
5) Why do you recommend us at A-Plan over other insurance providers?
‘When we were being asked by customers who should I use for insurance because of the modifications, we previously had recommended companies who had approached us promising the world. “A seamless handover”, “instant quotes”, “fantastic customer service”, to mention a few quotes but not one delivered on these promises. Not until Clare from A-Plan approached us at Autosport and asked for a chance. We duly obliged and the feedback from customers has been great. Our clients receive the customer service we expect them to receive and A-Plan know as a business what Urban do.’
6) What is your ultimate dream car?
‘1967 Shelby Mustang GT500 “Eleanor”.’
7) What exciting things do you have coming up?
‘We are in the early stages of partnering with outlets in the US and Dubai who will fit and sell our products around the world.’
8) This last question I’ve been dying to ask…You can chose any celebrity to design a vehicle for, who would it be and what would you create?
‘I think definitely for the next James Bond. Recreating the spectre edition Defender was great and designing and building a Range Rover SVR with all the gadgets and gizmos would be awesome.’
You can meet the Urban Automotive team at Goodwood Festival of Speed on 29th June – 2nd July. Or if you feel like jetting off for the weekend they will be making an appearance at Essen Motor Show in Germany 2nd December – 10th December!
Blogger: Kerry Harris, A-Plan Specialist