What started out as a random email, was about to turn into reality for the owner of 311RS #01 (who wishes to remain anonymous). After first reading about the 311RS in Modified Magazine’s article from Tuner Shootout 2012, the eventual owner was hooked. He contacted us via www.311rs.com, we then spoke on the phone and eventually Ryan flew out to NYC to meet the potential owner of 311RS #01.

See, the first 311RS is very special to us. It’s our first “Production” unit, meaning it would combine all that we learned from the development of #00 along with all of the details that will separate the production units and the prototype. Starting fresh with a brand new 2013 Evo X, 311RS #01 began it’s journey through our production process in October 2012.

A few attempts at a delivery later, the owner’s schedule finally aligned for a 3/11/13 date at the Minneapolis Auto Show. How perfect, delivery of #01 on 3/11 day. We worked with Mitsubishi and Mole Richardson to design a unique experience to showcase #01 during the show and presentation to the press.

Mole Richardson provided their huge movie-quality “Day Light” spotlights to help us present the car in proper fashion. We believe 311RS Blue is a special color, and in turn deserves only the best light. Hence Mole Richardson. Apparently the Minneapolis Auto Show committee thought so as well, we were awarded “Best Use of Lighting” for the 2013 show. Trophy and all!

Onto the reveal.. The owner flew in from NYC on Monday morning, a few hours ahead of our scheduled reveal time. A quick drive from the airport directly to the Auto Show to spend some time building anticipation. His first view of his new car, covered up, only the bottom of the Ce28N wheels peeking out to hint at what lies beneath the custom 311RS cover. He was so annoyed, but at the same time so excited to see his car.

Following a brief presser in front of local reporters and online journalists, it was time. My girlfriend Christa was in attendance to help with the reveal. Together we pulled back the cover revealing 311RS #01 to it’s owner and the media for the first time! A huge collectiion of gasps and screams followed the reveal. A few more words with everyone then it was time to walk through the car with it’s new owner.

He was speechless! Seeing your new car for the first time is always a special experience and this was no different. 311RS Blue is not the same in photographs, it so vivid in real life. The width of the car, the ride height, everything about 311RS #01 has to be appreciated in person for it to make complete sense. We spent time together walking through the car pointing out the details and discussing decisions made with the owner that he was seeing for the first time in person.

It was a unique process building 311RS #01. The car had to be special, yet stay true to the 311RS concept. No built engine or gutted interior. It had be a real world street car with some added options to help visualize what was possible with the 311RS Program. We work directly with each owner to dial the car in to exactly what they want, and it by the look on the owner’s face when he saw his car for the first time, we are confident that we’ve accomplished his goals.