In 2006 Ecko Unltd and Nissan teamed up to design a pair of co-branded promotional sport utility vehicles and a line of apparel and fashion accessories. The Nissan Armada had laser-etched wheels, a custom grille, a cream Landau roof and bright orange side panels. The matching two-tone interior had calfskin seats.
The Pathfinder had a complete makeover, as well. Per Marc Ecko's design input, the SUV got a black and gray camouflage paint job, oversized five-spoke wheels, orange rims and a polished wood and orange lacquer interior. The LCD video screens in the headrest and the giant subwoofers in the back wowed the crowd at an exclusive VIP event.
The automaker chose to partner with Ecko Unltd because the urban lifestyle clothing brand is known for its "bold, forward-thinking design," said Nissan North America's VP of marketing. "The new customized vehicles and clothing line emerging from this collaboration are the perfect extension of the quality and affinity for street culture inherent to both brands."
Marc Ecko founded his eponymous fashion label in 1993 after dropping out of pharmacy school. His understanding of contemporary style and trends helps him make calculated business and personal decisions.
"My goal with this project is to not only introduce my original sense of style to Nissan, but to do so in a way that highlights the individuality of the Pathfinder and Armada brands," he said.
While his blueprints for Nissan are impressive, Ecko's personal taste in cars is also praiseworthy. He is the proud owner of a Gurkha, an armored vehicle that has bulletproof windows. It is fortified with special plates that make it extra durable. The Gurkha is made by a company in Canada that produces combat vehicles for military personnel. It is rare for civilians to possess--or even ride in--a $100,000 military-grade auto. But then again, Ecko is no ordinary civilian.
The Gurkha line of vehicles is notable for appearing in the 2011 hit movie Fast Five. It is available in three different configurations: light-armored patrol vehicle (LAPV), multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) and rapid patrol vehicle (RPV). It is fitted on the Ford F-550 chassis and has a 4-cylinder, 2600 cc diesel engine that produces up to 113 horsepower. In terms of sheer size, it simply outclasses the Hummer H2.
Aspiring entrepreneurs can learn a thing or two from Marc Ecko: follow your dreams, don't be afraid to take risks and always live life to the fullest.
* Marc Ecko Gurkha image 1 courtesy of Celebrity Cars Blog
* Marc Ecko Gurkha image 2 courtesy of YouTube
