Mil-Spec Automotive (MSA), the aftermarket company that specializes in sprucing up Hummer H1 vehicles, has just launched its latest bespoke creation.
It’s called #005 and it’s part of the company’s limited Launch Edition series consisting of 12 trucks commissioned so far. With an MSRP of $248,691, it’s as prohibitively expensive as its predecessors. Still, Mil-Spec says the #005 is the most bespoke Hummer H1 yet, combining performance-enhancing engineering improvements with special design touches.
Enough torque to move mountains
As with MSA’s previous four builds, #005 features a hand-built, tuned Duramax 6.6-liter LBZ turbodiesel engine making 500 hp and 1,000 lb-ft (1,354 Nm) of torque. The V8 diesel is mated to an Allison 1000 automatic transmission and New Venture Gear 242 part-time 2-speed transfer cases.
Mil-Spec also upgraded the original AM General portal axles with 2.56:1 ring-and-pinion gearing by fitting ARB Air Locker differentials. The latter components are said to provide full on-road cornering plus superior off-road traction. The Hummer’s leak-prone OE Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS) is deleted though, in order to make room for aftermarket alloy wheels.
Owners will still be able to inflate the H1’s wheels without going to a tire shop. That’s because MSA fits a twin-tank ARB 12-volt air compressor plumbed to actuate the Air Lockers and provide tire inflation through the included hose/chuck kit, as well as service air.
Rugged on the outside, refined on the inside
Styling-wise, the #005 distinguishes itself from previous MSA builds thanks to the Moonlight Grey textured polyurethane coating infused with Kevlar. The black powder-coated vents and panels, as well as the 18×9-inch Pro Comp Series 40 Matte Graphite wheels, provide a much-needed contrast. The rims with custom MSA center caps are shod with massive 38×13.50R18 Toyo Open Country M/T tires.
The truck also features a new soft-top made from Tough Duck marine canvas, an MSA offset snorkel and heavy-duty rear step bumper with the optional Class III receiver towing package. The AMP Research Power-step automatic running boards and roof-mounted 60-inch LED light bar round off the exterior upgrades.
Inside, the Launch Edition H1 #005 comes with the upgraded Executive Interior package whose stand-out feature is the marine-grade leather theme. It’s as luxurious as a Hummer H1 can get, combining diamond-stitched seat inserts and door panels with Black Nappa leather seat bolsters, upholstered dash and center console.
Mil-Spec Automotive will build seven additional Launch Edition H1s in 2019.