Autosport graphics for Essa Autosport by Iconography Studios. We are proud to have produced and installed these custom graphics for this BMW M3 for Michael Essa, the Formula Drift Champion.
At Iconography Studios, we specialize in both the design and application of custom racing graphics. These stunning graphics, designed by Brett King Designs, were printed on 3M’s IJ180 vehicle grade vinyl with gloss laminate. While most of the design is incorporated into the digital print, some logos are added after as overlays, depending on their location on the vehicle.
Autosport graphics refer to specialized, often customizable, vinyl, decals, and wraps applied to racing vehicles for branding, sponsorship, identification, and aesthetic purposes. These, such as partial wraps, race numbers, or class letters from Advanced Autosports, enhance visibility, convey sponsor information, and personalize the vehicle’s appearance. They are essential in motorsports for identifying drivers and teams.
As always, we use only the highest quality print media and vinyls for all of our wraps, including racing graphics. Most graphics are printed onto 3M’s digital vehicle grade vinyl media and then finished with a matching laminate. The laminate both protects the prints against fading and minor scratches, and also aids in the installation process.
Why Hire Professional Autosport Graphics Installers
When working with race teams, particularly with Formula Drift, we will often send extra graphics down to the track with one of our installers for any immediate repair work that needs to be done on-site.
Professional installation of autosport graphics is recommended to ensure a flawless, durable finish that protects the vehicle’s paint, as opposed to the high risk of bubbles, wrinkles, and misalignment common in DIY attempts. Professionals use specialized tools, heat techniques, and high-quality materials to manage complex curves and, in the case of race vehicles, ensure compliance with racing regulations.
Here is why professional autosport graphics installation is the preferred choice:
- Superior Quality and Precision
- Flawless Finish: Our experts eliminate common DIY issues like trapped air bubbles, wrinkles, and misaligned panels.
- Complex Surfaces: Our professionals are trained to handle challenging areas such as bumpers, side mirrors, and curves, ensuring the vinyl wraps seamlessly around them.
- Precision Cutting: Using specialized tools, professionals avoid knife marks and scratches that can damage the underlying paint.
- Enhanced Durability and Protection
- Longer Lifespan: Our professionally applied wraps last 3-5 years, whereas amateur jobs often fail in 6 months to 2 years due to lifting or peeling.
- Paint Preservation: Experts properly clean and decontaminate the surface before application, preventing dirt from damaging the paint and ensuring a clean removal later.
- High-Quality Materials: We have access to top-tier, durable, and UV-resistant vinyl materials, including those designed for high-impact racing.
- Cost-Effectiveness and Efficiency
- Avoiding Costly Mistakes: A single wrong cut or ruined sheet of vinyl in a DIY attempt can result in wasted money, whereas professionals get it right the first time.
- Time Savings: While a DIY project can take weekends or weeks, professionals can complete the installation in 1–2 days, minimizing vehicle downtime.
- Expert Knowledge and Warranty
- Warranties: Many professional shops offer warranties covering peeling, bubbling, and defects, giving you peace of mind that a DIY project lacks.
- Regulatory Compliance: For motorsports, professionals ensure that graphics meet specific racing standards and regulations.
Summary: DIY vs. Professional
- DIY: Lower upfront material costs, but high risk of damage and short lifespan.
- Our Professionals: Higher initial investment, but a long-lasting, perfect finish that protects your investment.
Iconography Studios congratulates Michael Essa on his podium appearance on the streets of Long Beach’s Formula Drift competition. We look forward to a great season!
Interested in graphics for your race car? We do everything from design through production and installation in-house. Give us a call today at 562-424-4353 to learn more!
