AutoOz Launches Signature Edition Line of Cars
BONSALL, Calif. & ZURICH, Switzerland--June 7, 2001500 Premiere Vehicles Designed by O'Neal and Industry Leading
Designers to be Available at Ford Dealerships
Imagine owning an automobile custom designed by your favorite celebrity, crafted by the same team behind the world's leading makes, with state-of-the-art features not due to be installed in production vehicles for another few years.
That's what the owners of the 500 limited edition Shaq SST Expeditions will experience in October when these very unique and specially created Ford vehicles debut. That's when AutoOz, the world's first Signature Edition Auto Manufacturer, will introduce its exciting new vehicle to auto enthusiasts and Shaquille O'Neal fans.
"We are delighted to see AutoOz developing the premium offering of the Shaq SST Expedition. Though this is not a regular Ford production option, as an independent signature edition vehicle from a boutique company, it builds on our brand and it supports our `No Boundaries' SUV marketing strategy," said Doug Wlaczak, Ford Motor Co.'s marketing manager. "'No Boundaries' is more than just physical boundaries. It is also about the emotional and aspirational side of people's perception of themselves."
AutoOz has paired the Los Angeles Lakers center with Ken Grant, the lead designer on the 2002 Ford Thunderbird and his Blue Dot Design team, to create a car that fulfills Shaq's dreams, defines his personality, and meets his sense of style. It will offer state-of-the-art sound and deliver cutting-edge technology that is reflective of society today and tomorrow.
"I like the idea of expressing myself through the design of an Expedition," said O'Neal. "I've always been into customizing my cars and this seemed like a perfect way to share my passion with others. Hopefully my personality will come through in the design. Especially my sense of style, humor and natural good looks!"
Historically, made-to-order cars have been customized "one-offs", usually crafted in small performance shops around the country. Oftentimes the customization is evident because the parts and enhancements do not match the manufacturers original concept. But the AutoOz signature edition vehicles are being manufactured to look like they have come straight off the assembly line, by the very people who design for major auto manufacturers.
"Until now custom cars have been just that, one-off custom modifications, not a line of made-to-order and quick-to-market vehicles that reflect the character of a high profile figure blended with the craftsmanship of the auto industry's leading designers and suppliers," said Tony Loiacono, CEO and founder of AutoOz.
Loiacono played a key role in the development of the Ford Motor Company/Eddie Bauer relationship and marketing of the original Ford Eddie Bauer Bronco II in 1982-84. AutoOz was conceived in 1999 because research tipped him off that the auto manufacturers were heading toward a trend in made-to-order, limited edition, fast-to-market automobiles, but that goal might take them a several years.
Loiacono leap-frogged traditional hurdles to launch AutoOz, with the support of manufacturers, award winning OEM designers and Tier One automotive suppliers. The suppliers will utilize the AutoOz vehicles to showcase manufacturer-approved technology, equipment and design features years before they will be available in regular production vehicles.
The Shaq SST Expedition SUV is the first of a series of automobiles that will carry the personality of a proven star, while delivering the latest in look, comfort, entertainment and technology. AutoOz vehicles will be numbered.
"The Shaq SST will embody a modern day professional -- a man of action, passion, and commitment -- someone who desires to live a full life, yet fully understands its practical needs and challenges," added Loiacono. "Like Shaq the NBA star, the Shaq SST owner is as comfortable in the realm of information as he is in action. He not only `gets' the experience, he `gets' its essence of style, sound and technology. In fact, that is precisely what he stands for. That's why he will have his own signature automobile."
The Shaq SST will be available through selected Ford Dealerships in the fall. The Shaq SST will carry a pricetag that will only be 20% more than a fully-loaded factory Ford Expedition.
AutoOz, based in Bonsall and Zurich, is a privately-held company. More information can be found at www.autooz.com.
