Richard Rawlings, founder of Gas Monkey Garage and star of the hit show Fast N' Loud, is always on the lookout for the next big automotive trend. Following the conclusion of the Discovery Channel show in 2020, Rawlings has taken Gas Monkey Garage into more ambitious and groundbreaking projects. With the limitations of episodic television behind him, Rawlings is now free to explore more complex builds and dive into the cutting edge of automotive customization, from EV conversions to high-end exotic sports cars.
Source: Instagram
One of Rawlings' latest ventures focuses on pushing the boundaries of car culture by embracing electric vehicle (EV) technology. For instance, at the 2023 SEMA Show, Gas Monkey Garage unveiled a fully electric Ferrari Testarossa, an audacious move that has garnered attention from both EV enthusiasts and automotive purists alike. This project not only modernizes a classic Italian sports car but also positions Gas Monkey Garage as a key player in the ongoing shift toward sustainable and future-forward automotive design. The reimagined Ferrari features top-of-the-line components from Brembo, Bilstein, and Vossen, showing Rawlings’ willingness to experiment with high-tech automotive solutions while preserving the essence of the original machine.
Gas Monkey Garage has also tapped into other modern automotive trends, such as overlanding, off-road performance, and customization. The team’s creation of a Dodge RAM TRX overland build, featured at SEMA 2023, demonstrated their ability to embrace adventure-ready vehicles designed for rugged terrain. These overland builds highlight the growing interest in vehicles that offer a combination of power, durability, and custom styling.
However, it’s not just the EV and off-road sectors that Gas Monkey Garage is tapping into. Rawlings continues to focus on the world of classic cars, upgrading them with cutting-edge components while maintaining their vintage appeal. One such project is the "Texas Skidmark," a 1968 GMC C1500 pickup that became a standout in various industry shows, including the 2023 SEMA event. The truck, which is now being offered as part of a giveaway, blends old-school charm with modern technology. It features a Chevy Performance 6.6L engine and a state-of-the-art suspension system, showcasing Gas Monkey’s balance of classic restoration and modern innovation.
Source: Instagram
In addition to the high-profile projects, Rawlings and his team remain active on platforms like YouTube, where they document their builds and continue to engage with their global fanbase. Gas Monkey Garage has more than 600 videos chronicling their work, offering behind-the-scenes content and updates on new trends in automotive customization. This platform allows Rawlings to stay connected with fans and introduce new projects that may not have fit the format of Fast N' Loud.
Ultimately, Rawlings’ quest for the next big automotive trend goes beyond just cars. He’s continually expanding the Gas Monkey brand into other ventures, including merchandise, his own energy drink, and even NFTs, ensuring that his influence stretches beyond the automotive world. His willingness to embrace new technologies and trends while maintaining a deep respect for the classics has helped Gas Monkey Garage stay relevant and innovative in an ever-changing industry.
As automotive culture evolves, Richard Rawlings remains at the forefront, always seeking new ways to combine innovation with tradition. Whether through electric vehicle conversions, extreme off-road builds, or reimagined classics, Gas Monkey Garage continues to shape the future of car culture, proving that their best days are far from over.
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