Just a few weeks ago, we were in Flagstaff, Arizona, for the Overland Expo West with thousands of attendees and Overlanders. We had such a good time we made it out to the event to see friends, vendors, and other businesses who have made incredible products in an industry that is so near and dear to our hearts. To top it all off, the event was surrounded by the great wilderness in the mountains of Northern Arizona. We saw many incredible Overland rigs, but here is a list of our favorite rigs at the 2023 Overland Expo West.  When you look at Overland vehicles, it is normal for them to be heavy and overloaded with gear, but what if they didn't have to be? What if they were minimalistic, lightweight, capable, and fast? What if they were part prerunner and part Overlander... maybe they are a prelander. Enter Jason Denny's Ford F150 Raptor, the prime example of what a great overland vehicle should be. Complete with a Go Fast Camper, Rigd bike rack, and plenty of storage for an ice chest and some sleeping bags. Jason's Raptor is light, nimble, and capable of some serious speeds, and with speed is the need for a light with serious distance. The Raptor has the 2020 F150 Raptor Baja Designs Fog kit complete with the Next Generation SAE, S2s, and Squadron Pros. Behind the bumper is a Baja Designs 10" Hybrid Laser Onx6 Plus , which is capable of throwing light 350% further than a traditional OnX6 light bar due in part to the two laser chips and Next Generation LED paired with our high-speed Spot optic to deliver a far-reaching yet smooth blend of light.. The Acela Monterra Camper is a robust truck that captured our attention at the Overland Expo West. Weighing nearly 20,000 pounds, this heavyweight vehicle is designed for challenging expeditions across the globe. It features Baja Designs LP9 lights and an array of Baja Designs Squadron Scene lights around the vehicle.  The Acela Monterra is built to conquer tough terrains and enable adventurous explorers to create lasting memories as they gear up to start their global journey in the next year through Europe. Inside the truck, the sPOD BantamX power control module and touch panel allow for easy management of interior and exterior accessories, including scene lighting and other accessories. The custom Overlander Global, 16ft habitation box, offers a practical living space for extended journeys for Tiffany and her husband, Kurtis.  Now, we sought a build that hit every Lighting Zone, and that was none other than our friend Chris from Pure 4x4. His 2020 Toyota Tacoma features a wide array of lights, everything from the classic Baja Designs Squadron Toyota Tacoma Fog Pocket Kit to Onx6 Light bars in the grill and even S2 Sport scene lighting. This truck hits all the Lighting Zones, everything from Zone 1 Dust and fog through Zone 8 Spot.  One of our favorites of the show was the TAV Spec built 2017 Toyota Tundra, complete with a Total Chaos long travel kit, Bowen Customs custom bed, Sherpa roof rack, and the Skinny Guys Camper on the back. When we say this camper has everything and the kitchen sink on it, it truly does; there is even a cassette toilet in it. There is nothing better than pooping in peace instead of behind a bush.  TAV really knocked it out of the park on this Tundra; for lighting, it really is the ultimate setup, complete with Baja Designs LP9s, LP6s, Squadrons and flush-mounted S1s on the bumper for cornering. Controlling all the lights is the BantamX HD Panel mounted in the cab. Skinny Guy Campers utilizes the wireless functions of the Bluetooth Bantam App to control all the lights from inside the camper if they need to. Overall this Tundra is one of the nicest second-generation Tundras that TAV has ever built.  The 2023 Overland Expo West not only showcased these exceptional rigs but also served as a platform for like-minded individuals to connect, share stories, and celebrate their shared love for the great outdoors. It was an event that left a lasting impression and further fueled the passion for Overlanding among attendees.

We are thrilled to announce our exciting collaboration with Two Track Nation, bringing a remarkable customization project that combines functionality, style, and ruggedness. Together, we have created a custom set of Baja Designs Squadron Pros and sPOD HD Panel in a captivating Camo Cerakote finish. We are proud to showcase this unique collaboration in our upcoming Overland Expo West booth. [gallery columns="1" size="full" ids="293153,293155"] Limited Edition Sets:  To commemorate the Overland Expo West and the adventurous spirit of Two Track Nation, we have crafted ten exclusive limited sets that include a set of Baja Designs Squadron Pros and sPOD BantamX 8-switch HD Panel. Each set is a testament to the craftsmanship and attention to detail that defines our collaboration. [gallery columns="1" size="full" ids="293163"] Camo Cerakote Finish: The Cerakote finish on the Baja Designs Squadron Pro and sPOD HD Panel is a thin, protective coating creating a durable and long-lasting barrier. It is known for its resistance to wear, chemicals, abrasion, and impact. The coating can withstand high temperatures and harsh environmental conditions, making it ideal for it's most commonly found on firearms.  [gallery columns="1" size="full" ids="293176"] Squadron Pro The Baja Designs Squadron Pro uses next-generation LEDs pushing out 4,095 lumens at three amps with a clear combo lens for distance and midfield visibility while backed by a lifetime warranty.  sPOD BantamX and HD Panel  The sPOD BantamX and HD Panel is a power control module designed to simplify and streamline the management of 12V and 24V accessories in off-road vehicles. They provide a centralized hub for controlling and powering accessories such as lights, winches, and fridges. The BantamX is rated for 30A across eight circuits up to a 100A max. Simplify your wiring and power management system with one wire going straight to the switch panel.  [gallery columns="1" size="full" ids="293149,293174"] Availability:  Please note that the Camo Collaboration set, including the Camo Cerakote, finished sPOD HD Panel, will only be sold as a complete package and only at Overland Expo. Once these limited sets are sold out, they will not be reproduced. Therefore, this is a rare opportunity to acquire a truly one-of-a-kind setup that combines top-tier lighting performance with a captivating design. [gallery columns="1" size="full" ids="293168"] The Camo Collaboration between our team and Two Track Nation represents the spirit of adventure in Overlanding. Combining the exceptional lighting capabilities of Baja Designs Squadron Pros with the intuitive control of the sPOD HD Panel, this limited edition set creates a unique and captivating design retailing for $1,644.95. Come see us in our booth at Overland Expo West booth P10 and P20.

The 2023 show season is upon us, and this year's Overland Expo 2023 the Baja Designs and sPOD booth will have three vehicles. Let's take a closer look at the vehicles and their set-up. If you are heading to Flagstaff, AZ, be sure to see these vehicles and their setups in person! Chase’s Lexus GX470 3x LP9 Pro on front bumper 2x s2 Pro Amber wide cornering fog lights 2x s2 Pro Amber wide cornering custom retrofitted in headlights 7x Squadron Pro white spot on roof bar 6x Squadron Pro IR driving on roof bar 2x Squadron Pro wide cornering white ditch lights 2x Squadron Pro IR driving ditch 2x Squadron Pro IR flood side rack lights 4x s1 scene white side rack lights 1x Squadron sport Amber chase light wide cornering 1x Squadron pro IR reverse light 2x Squadron sport white wide cornering reverse lights 1x RTL-S 1x BantamX with touchscreen controller in rear 1x BantamX with HD controller in cockpit Hunters GMC Sierra AT4 1 x OnX6 Dual Controlled 40” lightbar (Amber & IR) 2 x XL80 Pro Amber Ditch Lights 2 x Squadron IR Ditch Lights 4 x S1s Fog Light Replacement Kit 1 x 8 XL Linkable lightbar 4 x S1 Scene lights 2 x S2 IR 1 x Squadron Pro Amber Chase Light 1 x RTL (Installed but not wired) 2 x Bantams Jason Denney International Scout                         1 x 9XL Linkable 2 x S2 Pro Flush Mount 1 x RTL-S 1 x S8 10” 1 x BantamX HD

So, you have bought some lights, and now you're wondering if you need a switch power distribution system to make your life easier. How do you know which system to get, and why would you want it over the provided wiring harness and relays? It all boils down to simplicity and customizability. We have a good rule of thumb: if you plan on utilizing more than three switches to control your lights, then you probably need a power distribution system such as sPOD. As a new member of the Bestop Premium Accessories Group (BPAG), sPOD has moved the manufacturing in-house to Baja Designs in San Marcos, CA. Let's take a look at what an sPOD is and whether or not it makes sense for your project. Centralized Control: sPOD offers a centralized means of managing and controlling auxiliary 12V electrical components on off-road vehicles, providing a single point of control for all your accessories.Solid-State Technology: Both the BantamX and SourceLT units utilize a solid-state board, providing a continuous power flow of up to 100 amps, and featuring up to eight circuits in total, rated at 30 amps each. Customizability: The Touch Panel allows for a wide variety of customization, including linking up to four BantamX units for a total of 36 switches controlled by one panel. Safety Features: The sPOD system includes a variety of safety features that help to protect against electrical faults, such as a low-voltage cutoff feature that prevents damage to the battery by shutting off the electrical components. Warranty: sPOD backs up their products with a 5-year manufacturer defect warranty, giving customers peace of mind knowing they're purchasing a reliable product. What is sPOD? An sPOD power distribution switch system is an advanced electronic control unit that offers a centralized means of managing and controlling auxiliary 12V electrical components on off-road vehicles. It consists of two main components: the switch panel and the solid-state unit. All you do is wire your positive and negative wire to the unit, and it is just one Ethernet cable going through the cab to the switch controller - it is really that simple. But we also believe in the product, so much so that we back it up with a 5-year manufacturer defect warranty. sPOD offers two powerful and space-saving switch panel power systems: the BantamX, an eight-circuit system, and the six-circuit system SourceLT. These solid-state technology units provide a continuous power flow of up to 100 amps and feature up to eight circuits in total, rated at 30 amps each. This flexibility allows customers to easily power a broad range of 12-volt accessories and not have to worry about any relays or fuses for each circuit; both systems utilize a solid-state board and one main fuse. The BantamX comes standard with the TouchHD, which gives that tactile feedback many people are so fond of. But for those looking to really customize their setup at the touch of their fingertips, we recommend the Touch Panel, which allows for a wide variety of customization and even linking up to four BantamX units for a total of 36 switches controlled by one panel. The sPOD engineers wanted to ensure our customers had full control of their system by integrating a splitter on the BantamX, allowing two switch panels to link together on one unit, so you can have a switch panel in the back of a camper and in the cab of a truck.   Both the sPOD BantamX and SourceLT units come equipped with built-in Bluetooth technology, giving customers the freedom to program and control their system from any wireless device. With a wide range of programming options available, including output dimming, strobing, flashing, master-slave functions, memory, auto power-up, momentary settings, input, and more that can be controlled through the app as well. Additionally, the units’ RGB technology allows for a broad spectrum of backlighting colors to match any unique style and preferences. When is the right time to upgrade? Before you can consider upgrading your power management system, you must consider the application you'll be using it for. If you are only running two light switches hooked up to your A-Pillar or your dust lights, we think that setup is just fine. But if you are looking to hook up three or more lights to add to it in the future, it is a no-brainer solution. Not only does it clean up your wiring, but the ease of installation makes it perfect - no splicing into a harness or adding in any type of complicated power tray and spending hours on a forum trying to learn how to set it up. Without having to fish multiple harnesses, the sPOD has a single cable going to the switch panel. More Than Just Lighting In addition to lighting, the sPOD system can also control winches and air compressors, although it cannot handle the circuit load as the amps typically pull 50-70 amps. With the use of the harnesses, you can tie in the switch lead and run the switch controller of the winch or air compressor. We see many people use an sPOD as a switch controller for both winches, air compressors, and lockers. Safety in Mind The sPOD system includes a variety of safety features that help to protect against electrical faults, such as a low-voltage cutoff feature that prevents damage to the battery by shutting off the electrical components. If the battery drops below 11.6V, after two minutes, the Bantam will shut down. So when you are at camp and accidentally leave your lights on, you won't have to worry about your car being unable to start because your lights drained your battery.  While it may seem like an extra step to add a switch system to your off-road vehicle, the benefits of simplicity and customizability cannot be overlooked. If you plan on utilizing more than three switches, a power distribution system like sPOD is an excellent choice. With its advanced electronic control unit, such as the BantamX and SourceLT, sPOD offers a centralized means of managing and controlling auxiliary 12V electrical components, including lighting, winches, and air compressors. With its solid-state technology and up to eight circuits, sPOD provides the flexibility to power a broad range of accessories and makes it easy to install and customize your system. Ultimately, whether or not sPOD is the right choice for your project will depend on your specific needs, but it is certainly worth considering as a powerful and space-saving power management system.  Check out sPOD on our website and if you have any questions regarding the product feel free to reach out. [email protected]

Over the years, we have taken our off-road performance lighting and engineered vehicle-specific kits that are plug-and-play for many makes and models. That is why we are proud to introduce the Baja Designs S1 Hitch Light Kit, a universal rear light pod housing from Meso Customs that will fit any 2" trailer receiver.  The S1 Hitch Light Kit is the ultimate plug-and-play solution for anyone wanting to create the ultimate reverse light, but for those wanting to wire in the toggle switch and pair it with the amber S1 lens, it becomes a universal chase/dust light illumination into Zone 8 of Lighting Zones. The Baja Designs S1 utilizes a 20-watt LED emitting 2,375 lumens; it is one of the most compact and powerful lights on the market.   The first option of the S1 Hitch Light Kit is the Trailer Adapter Harness, which is compatible with vehicles with a 7-pin trailer plug connector. This option allows for an easy plug-and-play installation. When the vehicle is put into reverse, the Baja Designs S1 automatically illuminates and provides an additional 2,320 lumens of smooth output. Gone are the days of reversing down a dark road or your driveway.  Trailer Adapter Harness: • (1) S1 Wide Cornering LEDs Clear  • (1) Trailer Hitch Adapter Harness  • (1) Hitch Mount Bracket  • All necessary hardware  $149.95  The second option is the Toggle Switch Harness, which gives customers the advantage of turning their S1 on when it is needed most, not just when reversing. This option is ideal for a variety of applications, from setting up camp in the dark to using it as a chase light on the trails. The kit includes a toggle switch harness and a 10' extension harness, giving users the flexibility to position the S1 light where it is needed most. Toggle Switch Harness: • (1) S1 Wide Cornering LEDs Clear  • (1) Toggle Switch Harness  • (1) 10' Extension Harness  • (1) Hitch Mount Bracket  • All necessary hardware  $169.95  Installation We have made installation a breeze, simply insert the hitch pod (without the light) into the trailer hitch receiver and mark the side pin holes with a sharpie. We didn't pre-drill these holes as hitch pin depths can vary between vehicles, ensuring a flush fit in your application. You can simply drill both sides of the pod to the correct diameter for the hitch pin using a step drill bit. Then, install the Baja S1 light with the provided allen screws and wire it to the function of your choice based on the kit you go with.  If you're tired of struggling to see behind you when reversing your vehicle, the Baja Designs S1 Hitch Light Kit is an excellent choice. It's a compact yet powerful lighting solution that can fit into any 2" trailer receiver. The best part? It is plug-and-play, and you can have it installed in minutes. Plus, there are two options to choose from, the Trailer Adapter Harness and the Toggle Switch Harness, allowing you to customize your lighting experience. Say goodbye to backing up in the dark, and upgrade your vehicle's lighting with the Baja Designs S1 Hitch Light Kit.     

Introducing our newest breakthrough in vehicle-specific lighting solutions - the Squadron Vent Kit from Baja Designs for the all-new 3rd Generation Toyota Tundra. At Baja Designs, we take pride in surpassing expectations by delivering top-notch lighting options and mounting locations that are tailored to specific vehicles. Our latest lighting kit is specifically designed for the Tundra and makes use of a non-functional vent on the Tundra front to provide yet another exceptional vent kit option. When we confirmed with engineers from Toyota USA that the vent under the headlight wasn't functional at all and purely decided around aesthetics, we knew it would be a great opportunity to develop a lighting kit that bolts directly into there. And from that, the Tundra Squadron vent kit was born.  The Squadron Vent kit is available in both a Squadron Pro and a Squadron Sport variant. The Squadron Pro version is for those that want to maximize their lighting output at 16,380 lumens, while the Squadron Sport version emits 12,648 lumens. Utilizing our Clearview optics, our lights come equipped with Wide Cornering Lens and Spot lens emitting light into Lighting Zones 1 - 4.   The Tundra Baja Designs Squadron Vent Kit includes both vertical and horizontal adjustability, this lighting solution empowers you to optimize your lighting output and aim the lights exactly where you need them. With the dual Squadron configuration, you can choose from three distinct variations to match your preferred package and lighting output.  What sets the Squadron Vent Kit apart from other lighting solutions is its innovative plug-and-play design. Unlike other kits that require extensive drilling and cutting, the Squadron Vent Kit can be installed easily and quickly without compromising the integrity of your vehicle . 2022-On Toyota Tundra Squadron Vent Kit, Sport  (2) Squadron Sport, Angled Flush Mount, Spot (2) Squadron Sport, Angled Flush Mount, Wide Cornering (1) Toggle Switch Harness (2) Splitter Harness (2) Squadron, Amber Wide Cornering Lens All necessary mounting brackets All necessary hardware MSRP: $1,414.95   2022-On Toyota Tundra Squadron Vent Kit, Pro (2) Squadron Sport, Angled Flush Mount, Spot (2) Squadron Sport, Angled Flush Mount, Wide Cornering (1) Toggle Switch Harness (2) Splitter Harness (2) Squadron, Amber Wide Cornering Lens All necessary mounting brackets All necessary hardware MSRP: $1,574.95  Baja Designs has yet again set a new standard for vehicle-specific lighting solutions amongst a sea of other lighting solutions for the all-new 3rd generation Toyota Tundra. The Squadron utilizes a non-functional vent to provide an exceptional light mounting location. With its easy plug-and-play design, complete adjustability, and dual Squadron configuration, the Squadron Vent Kit offers a versatile and reliable lighting solution for Tundra owners who want to optimize their lighting output. At Baja Designs, we continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in the lighting industry, and the Squadron Vent Kit is just another testament to our commitment to excellence.   The 2022 + third generation Toyota Tundra is the perfect platform to start your build on; we have done the hard work for you, pairing lights, wiring harness, and mounting brackets together that will work with your specific vehicle. Each specific kit is designed to be integrated with most factory components so you can worry less and create long-lasting memories on the trail.  Check out the full 2022 Toyota Tundra Light Kit lineup on our website.

Picture this: you're driving down a foggy coastal road, or perhaps navigating a dusty off-road trail at night. You need reliable, high-performance lighting that will guide you through any terrain. That's where Baja Designs comes in, with our all-new, redesigned next-generation Squadron® SAE lights. These lights have been meticulously crafted to bring the highest level of road-legal performance to our customers, no matter the conditions. What sets the next-generation Squadron® SAE lights apart? For starters, they feature a sleek new design and cutting-edge technology. Baja Designs has integrated aspheric projector optics, advanced LED technology, and achieved an impressive 56% increase in performance over previous generations. The result? An ultimate SAE light that can tackle any situation. Next Generation Squadron SAE:  56% Increase in performance over previous generations  2,420 lumens per light All-new aspheric projector optics to meet SAE J583 fog lamp requirements  Plug-and-play solutions for many OEM fog lights  No-cost upgrade program to previous customers Starting at $349.95 for Squadron SAE Universal kit But it's not just about power. The next-generation Squadron® SAE lights are also fully compliant with SAE J583 fog lamp requirements, thanks to their innovative projector optics. This allows for a highly controlled light pattern with a sharp cutoff, ensuring that the lights are road-legal while still providing ample auxiliary lighting for off-road adventures. The performance speaks for itself: these lights produce an impressive 2,420 lumens per light, and can reach up to 15,800 candela at just 29 watts. But the next-generation Squadron SAE lights are about more than just numbers. They're about prioritizing performance for road legal applications while still providing sufficient lighting for off-road adventures. Thanks to their new LED technology and highly efficient aspheric projector optics, these lights are perfect for cutting through dust, fog, and snow. No-cost Upgrade Program And if you're a current 1st generation Squadron® SAE retail owner, you're in luck. Baja Designs is offering a no-cost upgrade program for all first-generation lights, ensuring that their loyal customers can experience the latest in street-legal light technology. Simply send in your 1st generation Squadron® SAE lights to their office, and they will upgrade the internals, including circuit boards, optics, and lenses. Baja Designs even covers the cost of return shipping, making it a hassle-free process. So whether you're driving through foggy coastal roads or navigating dusty off-road trails, Baja Designs has you covered with their next-generation Squadron SAE lights.  To start this process, please send all questions related to the SAE upgrade to [email protected]  Light Up Your Adventure Backed by our 30-day satisfaction guarantee and limited lifetime warranty, the Squadron® SAE is the perfect light for adventures from the road to the trails. Don't get caught in the dark without the safety of Baja Designs and the new Squadron® SAE lights on your vehicle.

Toyota Sequoia Lighting Kits Baja Designs recognized the need for high-performance off-road lighting to complement the bold styling and exceptional capabilities of the all-new third-generation Toyota Sequoia. We are proud to introduce the 2023 Toyota Sequoia LED off-road lighting kits, available in three unique configurations. Upgrading to our premium LED off-road lighting is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to enhance your off-road driving experience significantly.   Baja Designs off-road light kits are specifically designed to integrate seamlessly into your 2023 Toyota Sequoia, including the TRD Pro model, without requiring major modifications. Our high-quality off-road lighting solutions will not only improve visibility during nighttime and off-road driving but also preserve the vehicle's original factory appearance. Each Baja Designs off-road lighting kit is supplied with everything needed for a hassle-free installation, including wiring, a harness, mounting brackets, and necessary hardware. We aim to provide straightforward and functional off-road lighting solutions so you can spend less time tinkering in your garage and more time exploring the great outdoors with confidence. Baja Designs XL/LP4 A-Pillar Kits Baja Designs 2022 Toyota Tundra A-Pillar Kits allow you to continue your adventures late into the night. This kit utilizes some of our most versatile and powerful compact lighting solutions, such as the Baja XL series and LP4. With the provided A-Pillar brackets, installation is simple, and Baja Designs brackets are designed so there is no vibration, even when running down wash-board roads. Baja Designs S2 Sport OEM Fog Light Replacement Kit The 2022 Toyota Sequoia S2 Sport Fog Light Replacement Kits allow you to replace the factory lighting while maintaining your original fit and finish. The plug-and-play system from Baja Designs makes for quick and easy installation with no complicated wiring, trimming, or splicing. This kit includes four Baja Designs S2 Sport lights with a wide cornering lens emitting 1581 Lumens. S2 Sport setup includes the following: (4) S2 Sport, Wide Cornering  (2) Mounting Brackets (1) Wiring Harness (2) Splitter Harness (1) Adapter Harness  All necessary hardware Specifications (Per Light):  Lumens: 1,581 12.4W / 0.9A  MSRP: $659.95 Baja Designs S8 20″ TRD Pro OEM Grille Light Kit The Baja Designs 20″ S8 OEM Replacement Kit gives the ability to replace the preexisting light that comes with the 2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro grille while also being compatible with the conversion grille kit. This kit allows you to maintain the low profile appearance while maximizing the performance with the 20″ S8 light bar in a clear or amber driving/combo pattern, giving 12,700 lumens of forward projected light.  20" S8 Clear Setup includes the following: (1) 20" S8 Clear Driving/Combo Light Bar  (1) Mounting Bracket (2) Support Bracket (1) Wiring Harness  (1) S8, Backlit Add-On  All necessary hardware Specifications (Per Light): Lumens: 12,700 120W / 8.0A  MSRP: $914.95 The 2023 Toyota Sequoia is the perfect platform for off-road adventures, and Baja Designs' lighting kits are the perfect addition to take your vehicle to the next level. Our plug-and-play systems make installation a breeze, and our high-quality lighting solutions provide unmatched visibility during nighttime and off-road driving. With our lighting kits, you can worry less and create long-lasting memories on the trail. Plus, our kits are designed to seamlessly integrate into your vehicle, maintaining its clean factory-fresh look. Check out our full lineup of 2023 Toyota Sequoia Light Kits on our website.

Another year has come and gone for the largest and most challenging off-road race in North America, the 2023 Progressive King of the Hammers powered by OPTIMA. With over 1000 teams racing, it was evident Baja Designs was well represented across not only the starting grid but on the lakebed throughout all the spectators attending the event.  Twelve days of non-stop action, from racing to events, it all led up to the main event of the 2023 Nitto Race of Kings, where many gave it all, but it was Baja Designs driver Raul Gomez who would be crowned "King" for the second year in a row. Raul fought his way through the savage 202-mile racecourse and battled with 3-time King Jason Scherer.  Gomez Ultra 4 4400 race car is equipped with a Baja Designs 30-inch OnX6+ light bar with a race-legal RTL in the back. While he never needed his light bar during the race, the RTL was in full force, as his competitors could see it cut through the dust. But since competitors had until 10 PM to finish, there were many racers who utilized their Baja Designs during the King of Hammers Race of Kings.  [gallery columns="1" size="full" ids="291880,291887"] But throughout the week, many other Baja Designs racers were victorious in their classes.  The 2023 4WP Every Man Challenge (EMC) presented an arduous challenge for over 150 teams and their racecars across three classes during the 2023 Progressive King of the Hammers Powered by OPTIMA Batteries. The 143-mile racecourse comprised a high-speed rugged open desert lap followed by a second lap on tire-shredding rocky canyons, where drivers and co-drivers faced daunting obstacles such as steep climbs, bottomless sand, and colossal boulders. Jeremy Jones from Branik Motorsports Legends piloted his race car to a first place overall win and 4800 class victory at 2023 Every Man Challenge. His car is equipped with Baja Designs LP4s and a 10inch Onx6 Light Bar on the front bumper.  In the 2023 Can-Am UTV Hammers Championship, Baja Designs racer Casey Currie took first in the Pro Mod class in his Polaris RZR Pro R, Equipped with a Baja Designs 10" S8 Amber Hood Mount Kit. This was one of three races Currie entered throughout the week that included Trophy Truck and 4400 in his trophy Jeep.  A racer who also raced three different races throughout the week was Bailey-Cole, who raced the factory Ford Bronco not only in the 4WP Everyman Challenge but also raced the Race of Kings and the Desert challenge and won T4 – Desert Stock OEM in his Ford Bronco. His Ford Bronco is equipped with Baja Designs XL80s on the A-Pillars. The XL80 is one of our favorite lights, emitting 9,500 lumens per light utilizing 80-watt LEDS; these lights cover Lighting Zones 1-4. The 2023 Progressive King of the Hammers powered by OPTIMA was an exhilarating event, and Baja Designs was well-represented throughout the week. From the challenging 4WP, Every Man Challenge to the ultimate test of the King of Hammers Race of Kings, Baja Designs racers performed exceptionally well in their classes, with Raul Gomez winning the main event for the second year in a row. The success of Baja Designs racers highlights the importance of high-quality lighting for off-road racing, and Baja Designs continues to be at the forefront of lighting technology, providing racers with the best lighting solutions available. The 2023 King of the Hammers was undoubtedly an unforgettable experience, and we look forward to seeing what next year's event has in store.

King of the Hammers has become the biggest off-road race in North America, bringing nearly 1000 registered racers and 80,000 spectators to the dry lakebed of Johnson Valley, Ca. It is easily considered to be one of the most challenging races as well; from rock racing to desert racing, there is a racing event almost every single day for 12 days straight. Since the event's inception 16 years ago, Baja Designs has been a part of many different race cars to light up the night and get those to the finish line. There is certain types of teams that come to KOH every year and leave a long-lasting memory on all of us, and that is the grassroots small racing programs. The people that have worked tirelessly all year long to get to this point don't have massive factory support or big sponsors; they just have passion for the sport and work ethic to back it up. We had a chance to catch up with a few teams who run Baja Designs lights and see what makes their lighting package and vehicles so unique. In the world of Ultra4, one of the most competitive classes based around grassroots racing is the Everyman Challenge; the class is a way to encourage a stock-style vehicle modified for racing. No one embodies grassroots racing better than Sherpa Motorsports. They race a 2003 Toyota 4Runner that was garage built between friends and family to test out their Sherpa Roof Rack systems in extreme off-road conditions. Sherpa Motorsports are rocking a set of LP9 Pros on the bumper, XL80s on the A-Pillar, and an XL Linkable for the roof that is a direct bolt-on for their roof rack and a set of S2 Pro in the rear as dust lights. Sherpa Motorsports have enough light to go race in Baja, coincidently they will be racing the San Felipe 250 this year. This will be their third consecutive King of the Hammers; they have yet to finish the race, but after completely tearing down the 4runner to the frame and rebuilding it better, they are confident this will be their year. Aside from rock racing, there is desert racing courtesy of the Toyo Tires desert challenge, and in that was the introduction of Class 11 Stock Bug racing a few years ago. Tim Sletten comes from a family that is known for building some of the best Class 11 Bugs out there. We had a chance to meet up with him before he passed the keys off to Baja Class 11 Champion Alex Gonzales, who took the keys a won the Class 11 race this week. Similar is the design ethos of a Class 11 Bug; simple is king, and when you are running at twilight, there isn't too much need for extreme lighting applications. Tim built the car to have just two Baja Designs XL 80s and an S2 Pro amber chase light. The Baja Designs XL 80 pushes out 19,000 lumens of illumination. The combination of 9,500 lumens per light and a small profile makes them a fantastic option for forward-projection lighting to minimize packaging on a vehicle. When we see people like Dennis Stansfield, we are reminded of what hard work and passion for this motorsport are, as he is a clear example of someone giving everything he has to race King of the Hammers. Dennis first acquired a Toyota pickup when he was 19, as his first truck would be built for occasional off-road trips. Nearly a decade later and over five years to build it into an Ultra4-inspired rock crawler powered by a Chevy v8, race suspension, and nearly full tube chassis. When he had the opportunity to compete in the Ultra4 4400 rookie program, he couldn't pass it up. A chance to compete at the highest level against King of the Hammers with legends such as the Gomez brothers and Levi Shirley. Dennis' goal isn't to set out to win but a mere just solely to finish the race, which means he will be finishing in the dark. His Toyota is equipped with two Baja Designs LP9s and an amber s8 paired with a driving combo lens. The LP9 Pro utilizes nine forward-projecting LEDs to produce 12,547 Lumens, and six LEDs for Integrated Peripheral Technology (IPT) which produce 2,302 lumens combined with the forward-facing LEDs provide an incredible 200-degree spread of usable light. King of the Hammers has become a major off-road race in North America, attracting many competitors and spectators. The event offers a variety of challenging races, from rock racing to desert racing, making it a highly competitive and exciting experience for all involved. Baja Designs has been an integral part of the race, providing racers with high-quality lighting solutions that are designed to withstand the demands of off-road racing. The Everyman Challenge and Class 11 Stock Bug racing are examples of the diversity of the event and the importance of effective lighting for the competitors. The Sherpa Motorsports' 2003 Toyota 4Runner and Tim Sletten's Class 11 Bug are examples of how racers have incorporated Baja Designs lights into their vehicles, providing enough illumination to navigate through the toughest terrain.

2022 Baja 1000 Pro UTV NA Winner Kaden Wells will be racing the upcoming King of the Hammers desert challenge race in his all-new 2023 Polaris RZR Pro R with a combination of Baja Designs lighting kits. While racing in the desert is crucial to have a superior lighting package that not only encompasses safety, such as marking lights such as our RTL but provides superior performance, such as the LP6 with the dedicated Integrated Peripheral Technology (IPT). In this exclusive feature, we see Kaden's all-new race car shows us how a minimalist design ethos creates an incredible platform to go race King of the Hammers.  Fresh off a championship win at the Baja 1000 in Pro UTV NA, Kaden Wells and Risq Racing is no stranger to building race cars that perform, and the proof is in the pudding. Over the past six years racing in Baja, he had podiumed every single race he had entered, with a few overall wins in the U.S.. When it came time to develop a new race car team, Risq decided to start with a new platform and move up to the top-tier class; Pro UTV Unlimited. They got to work building an all-new 2023 Polaris RZR Pro R taking an unorthodox approach, starting with a bare chassis, not a complete car. Kaden and his team had to build the race car from the ground up utilizing Polaris parts and many custom components. The details of the finished result are nothing but extraordinary. The Polaris RZR Pro R roll cage has been completely redesigned to maintain a lower profile, and as a result, it sits 10 inches lower than it did from the factory. Sitting on Method Race Wheels wrapped in Tensor tires, it utilizes 3.0 Fox shocks from an XP1000 and the rear 3.0 Fox shocks from a Can-Am. Because the custom aluminum paneling increases airflow Risq needed a way to channel air to the rear shock reservoir, so they developed an integrated roof scoop for that specific reason.  Lighting is a crucial component when. it comes to off-road racing for both visibility and safety to others on the course. For Kaden's lighting package, he opted for a lighting package that reaches a variety of Lighting Zones. Up front is the Baja Designs Polaris RZR Pro R S1 kit that replaces the factory headlamps for three S1 lights integrated into a direct-fit bracket good enough for Lighting Zone 1. Usually, many people would run multiple Baja Designs Lp6 mounted to the bumper, but on Kaden's RZR Pro R, just one single LP6 is more than enough to reach Lighting Zone 3 and 4 paired with an amber driving combo lens. The LP6 Pro is a 6-inch powerhouse featuring a total of 11,225 total lumens and of 200-degree spread of usable LED light thanks to the dedicated peripheral lighting of our patented Integrated Peripheral Technology (IPT).  When racing, often more than not, corners come fast, making it vital that a lighting package includes cornering lights. That is why the Pro R has been equipped with two Baja Designs Squadron Pro lights paired with amber wide cornering lenses angled out to the side, making it perfect for Lighting Zone 2. The last forward-facing light includes Baja Designs LP4. It is the epitome of power and functionality in a compact package. With 8,750 lumens of brightness and a 200-degree LED light spread, it illuminates its surroundings easily. The forward projection of 7,050 lumens and the additional 1,700 lumens of peripheral lighting from IPT makes this light a heavy hitter.  Outback, this Polaris RZR Pro R rear mount radiator, and a 20-gallon fuel cell tucked right above the engine to keep the center of gravity low. Just above the rear spare tire is a Baja Designs RTL. Not only is it required for racing but it provides multiple functions as a brake light and chase light when driving through the dust, making it a necessity when racing in the dust.   Kaden Wells and Risq Racing have built an exceptional race car for the upcoming season, and we can't wait to see it out on the lakebed this weekend. The 2023 Polaris RZR Pro R is a unique build, starting from a bare chassis to incorporating custom components and Polaris parts to create a minimalist yet powerful platform. 

We know our lights are an investment, not only to the performance of your vehicle but to enhance your experience driving at night. Protecting the finish of those lights can be vital; that is why Baja Designs and Adams Polishes have teamed up to develop the Quick Detailer spray. Protect your lights with the ceramic-infused detailer spray based on Adam's CS3 active three-in-one waterless wash detailer.  We know after a night out on the trail; there is always a day followed up by washing that mud and dirt off. Some of those heavy degreasers can contain hash chemicals such as Sodium Hydroxide that will eat through the anodized coatings used on most Baja Designs lights and lead to fading. Though we do warranty most defects, including those that impact coatings and finishes, your claim will not be honored if we determine that your product was damaged due to the use of Sodium Hydroxide.  All our lights come with a UV protectant right out of the box, but we want to ensure your light is taken to the next level of protection. The Adams Polishes Quick Detailer is a ceramic-infused modern presentation of an active three-in-one waterless wash detailer. Not only is this detail spray safe on your lights, but it is safe to use on the rest of your vehicle. This silica-infused waterless wash formulation delivers a gentle, safe, and effective means of cutting through dirt, dust, and grease.  It was a no-brainer to collaborate with a company such as Adams Polishes; they have over two decades of experience in the detailing industry. They have designed the Quick Detailer to deliver a clean, finished surface, generate a ridiculous amount of shine, and protect using the latest in silica resin technologies. Tand grime while remaining absolutely streak-free each and every time. Ceramic Infused Spray Utilizes high-quality cleaning surfactants  Easy to Apply and Use – Spray On/Wipe Off Cuts through Dirt, Dust, Grease, Grime and other Contaminants Silica-Infused Formula Leaves Behind a Durable Layer of Protection Whether you are racing in Baja and need to clean your lights off before you drive into the night or you just got back from a weekend trip and need to detail your truck, the Baja Designs X Adams Polishes Quick Detailer not only cleans your lights but gives it the added layer of protection. Visit Adam's Polishes website and pick up a bottle of Quick Detailer, air freshener and sweet new Baja Designs collab tee.