To create the Ultimate Tailgater, Al & Ed's started with a retro-styled Chevrolet SSR sport truck, though similar applications can be applied to any pickup or probably most sport or crossover utility vehicles. 'Since the bed of the SSR is useless for anything other than taking a couple of beach chairs and a cooler with you, we thought it would be best utilized as a platform for Ultimate Tailgating!' Al & Ed's reports. Thus, at a touch of a button, the SSR's tonneau cover raises, the tailgate opens and a 32-inch Vizio L32 LCD television and a Vermont Castings propane barbecue grille slide into position. The television is linked to a KVH Tracvision DirecTV satellite dish and receiver and is supplemented by an on-board audio system that includes an 840-watt amplifier, two 2000-watt amplifiers, a set of 6.5-inch, three-way component speakers and, mounted in the tailgate, 5.25-inch two-way component speakers, all by Eclipse. Also from Eclipse is an audio/video/navigation system with hard drive. Monster cable and wiring links all the electronic components. The SSR's bed layout includes a refrigerated drink cooler. The tailgate was powder-coated with a heat-resistant finish and BBQ tools are stored in an enclosure built into the truck's fenders. Additional custom work was done on the vehicle's interior. To complete the package, the SSR was equipped with Brembo brake calipers and rotors, Eibach lowering springs and AE wheels. For more on the Ultimate Tailgater and many other cars customized by Al & Ed's, visit www.al-eds.com and click on the 'xtreme rides' navigation tab. Larry Edsall is a Phoenix-based freelance writer. You can reach him at [email protected].