The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) named Rebel Off Road as the council's newest member spotlight company. Get to know their story in the SEMA News interview with Bond Gilmer, Rebel Off Road's president, below.
SEMA News: Tell us the story of Rebel Off Road. How did the company start?
Bond Gilmer: I began Rebel Off Road in 2010 during the recession. There were many obstacles and growing pains. Being an unknown company, I had to rely on my expertise and knowledge to set Rebel Off Road apart from the other companies that were already in the industry. I did a lot of events like Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, King of the Hammers (KOH) and Jamborees, and began traveling across the country for these events, where I would let the quality of the workmanship and the components that I used for the builds speak for themselves.
SN: Was there any kind of breakthrough moment for your company?
BG: For Rebel Off Road, the biggest growth will come from the overland category as this is really where the whole family can get into the outdoors and outdoor travel. Having a rig that is capable of letting the entire family experience this great country's backroads and trails and lets them explore with confidence and ease will drive the company's direction.
SN: What's going on these days? What projects are you most excited about?
BG: We have a new partnership with Alpine USA with more details soon to be released. We're really excited about three build projects that are in the works. Briefly, we're building a stretched two-door Jeep Wrangler JL built specifically for rock crawling. We're also working on a new Jeep Gladiator build for the overland scene that will be next level with its functionality and capabilities. Lastly, a large military vehicle was built for promotion and to tow the new JL out to trails in Southern California.
SN: What's the best piece of advice you have for professionals getting started in the aftermarket?
BG: Focus on the customer and what they are truly seeking to build. We pride ourselves on helping our customers reach their goals right the first time.
Fill out a TORA-member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the truck and off-road specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on TORA's social media, SEMA News and future TORA member updates.