It's no secret that the Audi R8 is a head turner. From its styling to its sounds, it gains attention everywhere it goes. But the last head you want turning your direction is that of a police officer, especially one with a radar speed gun. So when you drive a car as noticeable as an R8, it's a good idea to know when the authorities are looking at you. This R8 V10 came in for a top quality radar/laser detection system installations. Watch the progress as we integrate an Escort Passport 9500ci radar and laser detection system to this Audi.

While we installed security, there's no harm in making it a little bit more sleek, right? So tinted windows and a custom finish to the stock R8 wheels were also added to the to-do list and off we went.



Parts Installed:
Escort Passport 9500ci
Window Tinting
Custom Wheel Painting



The Build

The trick that comes up with radar and laser systems is the art of disguise. Some systems lend themselves to components that can be almost completely hidden while others require accessible and somewhat exposed parts. This particular system requires two pieces, the controller and the display, to be within reach and sight of the driver. But just because they have to be out doesn't mean they still can't be technically hidden. We made sure to install these in a discreet but accessible spot in the car for the driver's convenience.

The way it all begins: parts and a great car!


Hiding the front laser shifters




The radar receiver



and finally, the rear mounted laser shifter. Where we chose to put it would definitely require some nip and tuck but it was worth it.





With the main components installed, it was time to figure the best spots to hide the display and controller. We chose to attach them both to different parts of the center console; the controller was placed to the side, within easy reach but still out of primary sight while the display was placed above the AC and heat controls, very visible to the driver but could be overlooked by anyone not directly hunting for it.

We tested the placement first to be sure it would look like it belonged there



Once totally satisfied with the placement, hid the wires and we were done.







Now the wheels are their own unique story. The stock wheels on the R8 are in a titanium finish. Unfortunately, this didn't match anything else on the vehicle. The customer wanted something more coordinated, which meant picking something from the car and matching that color. Since the car is entirely black, that left two options: black wheels or choosing something smaller to accent... the gas cap. The gas cap won and the wheels were removed and carefully painted in a hyper-silver finish. It really adds a lot to the car, if you ask us.



All in all, a great build on a fantastic car.


To see more on this build and all 107 pictures, click here!