EXPO

Beyond Boundaries: Americus Cuevas’ JDM and VIP Inspired 2018 Tesla Model 3 LR RWD

July 17, 2023

Meric Cuevas’ 2018 Tesla Model 3 LR RWD combines JDM, VIP, and Bippu styles for a unique build.
With 285 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, Meric’s Tesla delivers impressive performance.
Meric has earned awards for his Tesla, including Best of Show, Best Sedan and Best Stance at the Electrify Showoff driven by Yokohama Tire.

When it comes to the custom car scene, there are enthusiasts who take it to a whole new level. They transform their vehicles into unique pieces of art that reflect their personality and passion. One such individual is Americus “Meric” Cuevas, the proud owner of a 2018 Tesla Model 3 LR RWD. With a fusion of JDM, VIP, and Bippu styles, Meric has modified his Tesla into a masterpiece that demands attention wherever it goes.

Photo of Americus Cuevas JDM VIP Bippu 2018 Tesla Model 3 LR RWD from Ruined EV modified with Thor Electronic Exhaust Management System (Dual),
12-Volt Battery (lithium) provided by Buddy Club USA – MEGALife Battery, 19” BBS LM Wheels, Yokohama Advan Sport V107 Tires - 235/35/19 (f), 255/35/19 (r), C7 6-Piston Brembo Brake Conversion/ 370 mm BBK by Don Marconi, Universal Air Suspension Struts, Air Lift 3P Management w/ 5 gal Seamless Air Tank, VIAIR 444c Compressors (2), LOSTAR Aluminum Magnesium Alloy Skid Plates, Artisan Spirits Sports Line Black Label EVS Widebody, WellVisors Window Visors, Carbon Fiber M3 Style Side Mirrors, Electric Speed Design Carbon Fiber Mud Guards, Electric Speed Design Carbon Fiber Door Handle Covers (Painted PPW), Electric Speed Design Carbon Fiber Side Marker Covers, Robot Craftsman Multi LED Taillights (1 of 2 in the world), LowGlow Undercar LED Kit, Ghozt Lighting Module, AutoFasion Window Curtains, Broadway Mirror 300mm Convex Wide, Junction Produce Carbon VIP Tables, Junction Produce Tsuna Knot (Silver), Junction Produce Fusa Shield Emblem (Bronze), Junction Produce Katana Shift Knob 20cm (Black), Junction Produce Hannya Charm (Red Mask), Junction Produce Kyoto Fan (Black/Red), Junction Produce Tissue Box Cover (Black), Junction Produce Crystal Ashtray (Round), Junction Produce Throw Pillow Cushion (Black), Junction Produce Seat Cushion (Black), Junction Produce Missions Neck Pad V1 (Black), Junction Produce x DAD VIP Air Freshener (Crown), Air Spencer Squash x4, Electric Speed Design Carbon Fiber Dash, Electric Speed Design Carbon Fiber Window and Door Switch Kit, Electric Speed Design Carbon Fiber Center Console kit, Electric Speed Design Carbon Fiber Armrest Cover, Electric Speed Design Carbon Fiber Dome Light Covers, Electric Speed Design Carbon Fiber Stalk Covers, Inch Empire Seat and Flooring (Wine Red), Aroham D-Line Yoke Steering Wheel, Opelite Optics 600 Stars with shooting stars, Suede headliner reupholstery, Orella Acoustics Tesla Model 3 Speaker Upgrade, Hansshow 7.2” Rear Entertainment & Climate Control Display

Meric’s Journey from a Honda Prelude to his award-winning Tesla Model 3

Meric’s love affair with cars began way back in middle school, when he stumbled upon a mesmerizing white Honda/Acura NSX in a McDonald’s parking lot. From that moment on, he knew he had found his passion. Fast forward to 2005, and Meric made his first entry into the car scene with his 1999 BB6 NightHawk Black Pearl Honda Prelude 5 Speed Base Model. Little did he know, this was just the beginning of an incredible journey that would eventually lead him to his magnificent Tesla Model 3.

The story of how Meric acquired his Tesla is a testament to his dedication and love for all things automotive. As soon as Elon Musk announced the Model 3, Meric wasted no time. March 2016, at the Tesla Gallery in UTC Westfield Mall, La Jolla, was the day he placed a deposit for his dream car. He vividly recalls waiting in line for a staggering two hours just to secure his spot. Finally, in May 2018, Meric’s patience paid off, and he drove off the lot with his brand new Tesla Model 3 LR RWD.

Pushing Boundaries

But here’s the interesting twist – originally, the Model 3 was intended to be Meric’s wife’s car. However, fate had other plans in store. Meric couldn’t resist the temptation to modify it. The prevailing trend at the time was leaning towards a sporty and track-inspired look. But Meric decided to break the mold and take a different path. He embraced the essence of JDM, VIP, and Bippu styles, creating a Tesla build like no other. In his own words, he wanted to “go full-on JDM/VIP/BIPPU.” And boy, did he succeed!

No remarkable build can be achieved without the support and expertise of talented individuals. Meric credits his achievement to a winning collaboration between himself, CEEJ Customs, and AutoFashion. This trifecta of talent transformed his Tesla into an awe-inspiring work of art that turns heads wherever it goes.

Meric draws inspiration from various sources that shaped his automotive journey. Growing up, he found himself captivated by publications like Import Tuner, DSport, and PASMAG. His attendance at VIPFEST by AutoFashion was a defining moment that further fueled his passion for creating something truly exceptional.

Before his Tesla build, Meric worked on several other impressive projects. His previous rides include a 1999 Honda Prelude Base Model 5-Speed with notable modifications such as an H22a Type-S Swap, 5Zigen FN01R-C wheels, and a Mugen Twin Loop Exhaust. He also had a 1978 Datsun 280Z, which he unfortunately had to part ways with due to financial constraints. Additionally, he dabbled in the VIP scene with a 2005 Acura TSX, where he experimented with a Euro-R conversion.

While Meric’s involvement in the United States Armed Forces is not one of active service, he proudly supports the troops, especially his younger brother who serves in the Army. It’s this sense of patriotism and honor that permeates his character and reflects in his build.

Meric’s Transformed Tesla Model 3 LR RWD

Now let’s dive into the details of Meric’s jaw-dropping Tesla Model 3 LR RWD. This beast boasts an impressive 285 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, packing a powerful punch on the streets of San Diego. But what truly sets it apart are the stunning modifications that have elevated it to the pinnacle of automotive artistry.

The exterior of Meric’s Tesla is adorned with an Artisan Spirits Sports Line Black Label EVS widebody kit, giving it an aggressive and commanding presence on the road. Complemented by WellVisors window visors, carbon fiber M3 style side mirrors, and Robot Craftsman multi LED taillights, this Tesla is a sight to behold. The BBS LM 19-inch wheels, courtesy of AutoFashion’s owner, add a touch of elegance to the build. The Yokohama Advan Sport V107 tires provide the perfect balance of grip and style. To ensure optimal stopping power, Meric went for a C7 6-piston Brembo Brake conversion, which features a 370 mm BBK by Don Marconi.

The chassis and suspension of this Tesla have been meticulously fine-tuned. Universal Air Suspension struts and Air Lift 3P Management with a 5-gallon seamless air tank guarantee a smooth and comfortable ride. The VIAIR 444c compressors ensure quick and efficient air supply, while the LOSTAR aluminum magnesium alloy kkid plates provide added protection.

Inside the cabin, Meric has created a haven of luxury and style. AutoFashion window curtains and Junction Produce accessories, such as the Tsuna Knot, Fusa Shield Emblem, and Kyoto Fan, add an unmistakable VIP touch. The Aroham D-Line Yoke Steering Wheel and Opelite Optics 600 Stars lighting further elevate the interior to a whole new level of opulence.

When it comes to audio and multimedia, Meric has spared no expense. The Orella Acoustics Tesla Model 3 Speaker Upgrade and the Hansshow 7.2″ Rear Entertainment & Climate Control Display ensure an immersive and entertaining experience on the road.

Meric’s dedication to his build has been recognized and rewarded at numerous prestigious events. His Tesla Model 3 LR RWD has earned accolades such as Best Sedan, Best Stance, and Best of Show at the Electrify Showoff driven by Yokohama Tire, in Long Beach and San Francisco, California. It has also been celebrated at events like AFFEST/ VIPFEST, CaliCreaming Rollin Miles SoCal, Tuner Evolution SoCal, and Race Wars San Diego.

To achieve such incredible results, Meric has formed valuable partnerships with AutoFashion USA, Buddy Club USA, and Yokohama Tire. Their support and expertise have played a pivotal role in his journey to automotive excellence.

Meric Cuevas and his astonishing 2018 Tesla Model 3 LR RWD are a testament to the limitless possibilities of automotive customization. His fusion of JDM, VIP, and Bippu styles has set a new standard for Tesla builds in the custom car scene. With every modification, Meric’s passion shines through, showcasing his unwavering commitment to perfection.

For more information on Electrify Showoff driven by Yokohama Tire, visit www.electrifyexpo.com/showoff

2023 Electrify Expo Schedule

May 19-21	Long Beach, CA
June 24-25	San Francisco, CA
July 22-23	Washington, DC
Aug. 12-13	Long Island, NY
Sept. 9-10	Seattle, WA
Oct. 14-15	Miami, FL
Nov. 10-12	Austin, TX

OWNER/VEHICLE DETAILS

Owner: Americus “Meric” Cuevas
Location: San Diego, CA USA
Instagram: @tokki_ster
Club/Team: Ruined EV
Vehicle: 2018 Tesla Model 3 LR RWD
Horsepower: 285 hp, 330 lb-ft torque

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