In the world of custom automotive fabrication, few shows have captured the imagination of car enthusiasts like Texas Metal. The hit MotorTrend series follows Bill Carlton and his skilled crew at Ekstensive Metal Works in Houston, Texas, as they take on the challenge of transforming everything from rusted-out wrecks to modern trucks, often blending the old-school charm of classic designs with cutting-edge technology. One of their latest builds exemplifies their ability to revive the classic look while adding a modern twist, pushing the boundaries of car customization.
Source: Youtube
Ekstensive Metal Works: The Heart of Texas Metal
At the core of Texas Metal is Ekstensive Metal Works, a custom shop founded and led by Bill Carlton, a third-generation welder with over 20 years of experience in the automotive industry. Carlton and his team have made a name for themselves by turning average vehicles into awe-inspiring creations, combining artistic metal fabrication with high-end performance upgrades. The team has built a reputation for their craftsmanship, creativity, and their ability to tackle projects that others might shy away from.
Carlton, along with key team members like Tim Donelson and Jamie Marshall, have consistently pushed the limits of what’s possible in automotive design. Donelson, as the lead fabricator, brings his mechanical expertise and problem-solving skills to each build, while Marshall’s metalworking talents ensure that every project features unique and intricate details. Together, this team creates vehicles that are as functional as they are visually stunning.
Bringing the Classic Look Back
One of the standout projects in the latest season of Texas Metal revolves around giving a classic vehicle a modern overhaul. In true Ekstensive fashion, the build took a timeless design—like a 1964 Rolls-Royce or vintage trucks—and injected it with modern performance features without losing the essence of its classic look. These types of builds are particularly challenging, as they require blending two very different eras of automotive technology and design.
For example, in a recent episode, the team tackled a 1964 Rolls-Royce that was riddled with structural damage. Rather than restoring it to its original condition, the crew decided to make it roadworthy and even race-ready by incorporating modern suspension systems, custom metalwork, and high-performance engines. At the same time, they preserved the car's iconic design elements, like its stately body lines and luxurious interior finishes. This fusion of the old and the new is a signature move for Carlton and his team, and it’s part of what keeps viewers hooked season after season.
Source: Youtube
The Modern Twist: Cutting-Edge Features
What truly sets Texas Metal apart from other automotive shows is how the team integrates modern technology and features into classic designs. In one of their more ambitious builds, the team transformed a one-ton 2022 Ford F-350 into a Baja-style Raptor, a truck designed to handle off-road challenges while maintaining its heavy-duty functionality. This project exemplifies how the crew seamlessly incorporates modern performance upgrades into newer models, pushing the limits of what's possible in a custom build.
However, it’s not just about performance. Ekstensive Metal Works also focuses heavily on aesthetics. The team is known for their stunning custom paint jobs, intricate metal fabrication, and bespoke interiors. Custom paint artist Jessie Flores, for example, is responsible for giving each vehicle a unique visual flair that matches the personality of the build, whether it's through vibrant colors or intricate detailing.
Fan Reactions and the Return of Texas Metal
The latest builds on Texas Metal have received high praise from fans, both for their ambitious scope and the way they preserve the spirit of classic vehicles while incorporating modern conveniences. Many viewers appreciate how the show brings a sense of nostalgia while also celebrating innovation. This has helped the show maintain a loyal following through multiple seasons.
After some initial uncertainty about the show's future, fans were thrilled to learn that Season 7 would air in early 2024. The team had kept much of their work under wraps, leading to rumors about a potential cancellation. However, the show is back in full force, with Bill Carlton promising the best lineup of vehicles yet.
The beauty of Texas Metal lies in its ability to take automotive classics and elevate them into something modern, all while respecting the vehicle’s original character. With Bill Carlton at the helm, Ekstensive Metal Works continues to demonstrate how the marriage of old-school craftsmanship and modern innovation can create stunning, one-of-a-kind vehicles. Whether it's transforming a luxury Rolls-Royce or a heavy-duty truck, the team excels at bringing the classic look back with a modern twist—ensuring that each build is not only visually impressive but also equipped with state-of-the-art features that make it a joy to drive.
As Texas Metal continues to explore the limits of custom automotive design, fans can look forward to even more breathtaking builds in the upcoming seasons. Whether you're into vintage classics or modern monsters, the show’s ability to merge the past and future of automotive culture guarantees something for everyone.
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