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MIL-SPEC Automotive H1 Hummer

Published on August 2, 2019

Mil-Spec Automotive (MSA) has continuously improved H1 Hummer customizing since the company’s inception in 2015. In a new two-minute video, MSA’s 20-something partners talk about the company’s roots, then discuss the hows and whys of re-creating a high-profile vehicle so that the performance matches its legendary stature. Be sure to check out the MIL-SPEC Automotive H1 Hummer video above.

In the video, Mil-Spec CEO Adam Mitchell says, “It started as a passion project, but that’s the driving force that makes me wake up and go to bed every single day loving what I do – being passionate about it, and also taking pride in the work and being committed to delivering as much excellence as we can.”

“The exterior of the Hummer is something that really doesn’t need to be changed,” adds Mil-Spec CIO/Lead Designer Ian Broekman. “It’s only important to enhance the vehicle. The entire interior of the vehicle has been re-developed and re-designed in-house by our team, and most other bit and pieces – the 6.6L Duramax, the brakes, the suspension – has been touched by us or our very knowledgeable suppliers.”

Mil-Spec President Chris Van Scyoc continues, “The Hummer was an off-road brand that was not really focused on that luxury-vehicle experience. We’re giving the Hummer H1 an actual lease on life, and additionally an actual extension on its life.”

This brief visual overview also shows insights into Mil-Spec’s three core criteria: Execution by Design, Attention to Detail, and Integrity in Craft. While the original H1 earned notoriety for its bulky, imposing presence and suspect reliability, the Mil-Spec team approaches the utilitarian platform as a canvas for something sleeker and luxuriously opulent – the underlying inspiration in all MSA builds.

Drafting off the video is Mil-Spec’s latest bespoke H1, #007. This is one of the 12 available “Launch Edition” builds, all powered by a built-in-house 500-horsepower/1,000 lb-ft version of the LBZ 6.6L Duramax diesel mated to an Allison 6-speed automatic transmission. Mil-Spec further distinguishes Launch Edition builds by deleting the factory full-time four-wheel-drive system for the simpler part-time NVG 242 transfer case found in late-model GM ¾- and 1-ton pickups.

The seventh Launch Edition Mil-Spec H1 is unique in that it is a four-door hardtop configuration with a tasteful triple-black theme. The Deep Sky Black Kevlar-infused polyurethane exterior coating is offset with semi-gloss black powdercoated accents and optional AMP Research PowerStep running boards. The interior is upgraded with MSA’s optional Executive Interior Package, which is characterized by Nappa leather upholstery. Quilted stitching and custom lumbar supports in the seats were added per the commissioning customer’s request. Other interior touches include a Porsche-inspired Momo Prototipo steering wheel, a JL Audio infotainment system with XM radio, and black-powdercoated hardware throughout.

Mechanicals were also upgraded with optional MSA equipment. This includes the company’s 12,000 GVW Package, which swaps in the military Humvee heavy-duty axleshafts and portal hubs. This H1 also includes the Bumper Tow Package with integrated hitch, trailer plugs, and a reverse camera. One of MSA’s most popular upgrades, included here, is the Wilwood 6-piston brake package to significantly increase stopping power. But possibly most impressive on #007 is the Baja Suspension Package. Developed by legendary off-road racer Rod Hall, this system nearly doubles wheel travel to 13 inches at each corner. Upgraded components include longer coil springs and remote-reservoir shocks, stronger billet balljoints, and a redesigned front swaybar. The truck rides on 38×13.50R20 Toyo Open Country M/T tires and 20×10 LRG Fade 112 wheels.

As it sits, H1 Hummer Launch Edition #007 carries an out-the-door price of $297,541. For more information on bespoke Hummer builds or the company, please contact Mil-Spec Automotive at 248.430.5150 or www.milspecauto.com.