Tired of explaining that the carefully hidden computer systems in his previous cars weren't just DVD players, Haleluk turned the glovebox into the computer's case. Open it, and every component, including the MII 12K motherboard and power supply, lie naked for the world to see. A mini-keyboard is attached to the glovebox door with a retractable mini-mouse beside it. A Clarion touchscreen head unit provides sonic control of the computer's 5.1 surround sound low-level audio outputs (as well radio and CD options). And yes, Haleluk can pull into Starbucks and do a little web surfing while sipping a latte thanks to a wireless Internet card.
Running WinXP Media Center OS, the computer saves to RAM and "pauses" when the key is removed, picking up exactly where it left off when the car is restarted. GIAC Flashloader software allows the computer to talk to the engine management system so Haleluk can switch between pump gas, race gas, valet and other tuning programs with a touch of his screen. Keeping tabs on any the factory on-board electronics is made even easier and safer by Ross-Tech's VagCom software. Any vehicle parameter monitored by the ECU can be shown in real time on the computer screens through a graphical interface.
"I like to watch people's faces, to see the smiles," said Haleluk. "The best reaction is when a guy looks in the car, calls five of his friends over and they all have big grins on their faces. It's a relief, they're looking at my car and smiling, I did the right thing. That's what I get a kick out of, that's why I'm in the industry. It's so cool, just like when I was seven building those Legos, I still get to have fun building things."
2004 Audi A4 1.8TDrivetrainLongitudinal front engine, all-wheel drive
Engine1.8-liter inline four, dual overhead cams, four valves per cylinder, turbocharged and intercooledMods: AWE GT28R stage 1 turbo kit, GIAC software, Siemens Deka injectors, front-mount intercooler, AWE catalytic converter and exhaust
TransmissionSix-speed manual
SuspensionMods: H&R coilovers, Neuspeed anti-roll bar and polished control arms (r)
Wheels and TiresSevas S-Star, 8.5x19 (f)9.5x19 (r)Yokohama AVS Sport, 235/35-19 (f)265/30-19 (r)
ExteriorKerscher carbon-fiber splitter, AWE carbon-fiber hood, HID Visual Creations ION-Yellow foglamps, Kamei eyelids
InteriorCustom Alcantara upholstery, AWE pedal covers and boost gauge, B&M short shifter, three Xenarc 7-inch LCDs, Infinity Kappa Perfect 5.1 speakers, dual Pioneer amplifiers, trunk-mounted Xenarc 10.4-inch LCD, glovebox-mounted on-board computer