Custom Console for sale.... gauging interest
 

Had a few conversations about this with others but kind of want to figure out if this would be financially worthwhile and if there is an interest in it.

As you know, I have a carPC build on the go that's pretty much complete:

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/f...d/IMG_0821.jpg

However, I was never happy with the silver wrap and had a few bits need smoothed that bothered me.

I then decided to go in a different direction as I kept forgetting to hook up the netbook when I went on journeys so defeated the purpose. I am now about to install a 7" tablet running Android which means refabricating the console slightly.

I then thought about the potential to make a little money :)

I have a spare mk2 console (ATC version) and, through measuring, know I could fit a 7" Tablet without moving switches or anything, it would look completely stock except the screen would be fitted and the stereo would be relocated to the ashtray area (losing the ashtray of course!)

I know its hard to image as I haven't built it yet, but try!

Prerequisite would be that your current stereo would need rear aux or phono input to plug in the audio.

What you would get

7" Tablet custom fitted to dash, switch to operate lock/unlock button. (There would be a variety of tablet options depending on spec required)

The tablet would run proper sat nav programs, OBD2 diagnostics, music, videos, wifi internet, 3G dongle addition if required), bluetooth, custom MG boot up screens and an easy to use interface. It would look as stock as possible without getting a company to build a system for your car.

The console would retain the cigar lighter socket and would also have a USB slot for adding extra storage or transferring data, films, songs to tablet.

The console would be designed so that the tablet would not be modified structurally so could be removed and replaced should that time come or an upgrade was desired. It would also then, keep it's warranty.

Price would vary greatly, depending on the tablet required. The options listed about would be the same on all systems, the differences would be in hardware (processor/ram etc) and screen quality and resolution.

As a rough guide, the basic model would be around £350. This would go up to around £400 to include a basic car stereo with aux in. Price does vary massively depending on what you want, but as I say, would still include the above features.

The console would then be sprayed in a colour of your choice and would include gaiter surround.

This is all a gauging interest thread at the moment as I would only build the first one with a deposit and the timescale could be around 3 weeks as I work full time!

The console would be complete plug'n'play so fitting would be the reverse of removing your console as it would include harness extension for the stereo relocation and it would all be powered up once connections were replaced.

*This is a hobby, I am not a professional fabricator or electrician but I would not supply something substandard and I would only take the money once I was 100% happy it was fully tested and working.

Blair, Good idea, but you will need to make the whole thing totally idiot proof.

Re: Custom Console for sale.... gauging interest
 

Hence the plug'n'play. It will be wired in a way that if you can follow a 'remove your centre console' guide, the refit will be identical. A guide will also be provided.

I haven't had a proper look at the mk1 dash, I'll check the track car next time, but I will be looking at the possibility of doing mk1 console upgrade ass well as mk2 with dials.

Mk1 won't be as easy to make fool proof as you'll have to move the dials which will mean altering the cables possibly. Also on the mk1 the dials are not on the consol but a seperate panel mounted behind it.

Re: Custom Console for sale.... gauging interest
 

Which is why I will check out the track car. I would be looking at keeping them in place if possible.

Mate .... You just have too much time on your hands .... !!!

I think it's a great call, and if I had a Mk2 as a main car, I'd get one from you....

All the best with it mate.

Would you supply the console and allow the customer to fit their own tablet?

Also would you want their old (now not required) console as a kind of trade in?

A great idea, if you can pull it off! People must learn to be patient with something such as this as you are doing this as a hobby as such. Don't forget the shipping costs and packaging as although light it will be big. As Sam said a trade-in surcharge will be a good idea, add the cost to buy another on top and when the transaction is complete you can refund the surcharge on receipt of their original unit.

Good luck and a great project to offer the members.

good call :mml:

very interesting idea though, good luck, hope it works out