Our Story:
In 2001, Mark Surel was a passionate automotive enthusiast with a dream of building the ultimate custom car that would combine classic aesthetics with modern performance. This dream led him to embark on a journey that would ultimately result in the founding of New Vintage USA (NVU), a renowned American gauge manufacturer.
Mark's project car was a 914 Porsche, a classic sports car that he was determined to transform into a high-performance machine. To achieve this vision, he embarked on a bold engine swap, replacing the original powerplant with a potent 302 Trans Am racing series engine. This ambitious project not only required meticulous mechanical skills but also a keen eye for precision and detail.
During the process of building his custom Porsche, Mark found himself frustrated with the available gauge options on the market. He sought gauges that would not only perform flawlessly but also match the aesthetic of his meticulously crafted car. Fueled by his frustration and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Mark decided to take matters into his own hands.
In 2001, he founded New Vintage USA (NVU), dedicated to producing high-quality, vintage-inspired gauges that would complement the aesthetics of classic and custom vehicles. His experience as a designer at Chrysler, where he played a significant role in the styling of iconic products like the Dodge Ram, provided him with the design expertise needed to create gauges that were both functional and visually stunning.
As NVU began to gain recognition for its exceptional gauges, Mark made the bold decision to leave his position at Chrysler in 2011 to focus entirely on his growing company. This allowed him to pour all of his creative energy and expertise into NVU, further enhancing the brand's reputation as one of the premier American gauge manufacturers.
One of NVU's defining features was its commitment to quality and control over the entire production process. Mark insisted on completing all gauge assembly and screen printing in-house, ensuring that every product met his exacting standards. This dedication to quality control set NVU apart from its competitors.
NVU also embraced a lean, vertically integrated business model, allowing them to efficiently produce high-quality gauges while maintaining competitive pricing. Their streamlined approach and commitment to excellence earned them a loyal customer base and accolades in the automotive industry.
With NVU's success, they expanded their reach beyond American borders, developing the capability to fulfill worldwide orders just days after purchase. This global presence further solidified NVU's reputation as a leader in the gauge manufacturing industry.
Today, New Vintage USA stands as a testament to Mark Surel's unwavering dedication to his craft and his passion for automotive excellence. The company continues to create beautifully designed, precision-engineered gauges that enhance the driving experience of classic and custom car enthusiasts worldwide, all while remaining true to its founder's original vision of quality and craftsmanship.