Turn the traffic jam into a pleasure with Becker
Howard Becker's conversions have the feel of luxury offices on wheels.
Todd Doney, a property broker, used to spend three or four hours a day stuck behind the wheel of his Bentley in traffic jams, reports The Economist. No more. Now, thanks to his purchase of a customised vehicle from Becker Automotive Design, he spends that time talking to clients on the phone, returning emails, and going over documents.
His chauffeur-driven, customised car is now a kind of luxury office on wheels. Howard Becker, the founder of the firm, began his business in the 1970s, installing sound systems for the rich and famous. Today, his firm customises cars and vans for clients including actor Mark Wahlberg and King Abdullah of Jordan.
The firm specialises in converting Cadillac Escalades, a luxury SUV, or Mercedes Sprinters, a panel van (pictured). But after conversion, the feel will be more like that of a luxury private aircraft. The customised cars offer "incomparable comfort", says The Robb Report.
Subscribe to MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE

Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
The conversion cost depends on which of the numerous options and details you choose. Becker Cadillac Escalade ESV conversions start from around $150,000; the Becker JetVan conversions range from $200,000 to $450,000. Delivery can be arranged anywhere in the world from the company's California base.
For full details, seebeckerautodesign.com.
Get the latest financial news, insights and expert analysis from our award-winning MoneyWeek team, to help you understand what really matters when it comes to your finances.
MoneyWeek is written by a team of experienced and award-winning journalists, plus expert columnists. As well as daily digital news and features, MoneyWeek also publishes a weekly magazine, covering investing and personal finance. From share tips, pensions, gold to practical investment tips - we provide a round-up to help you make money and keep it.
-
'We face a £6m inheritance tax bill under Reeves's changes – it's sheer terror'
Thousands of families fear they’ll have no option but to look at selling their firms in a fire sale to pay inheritance tax bills, due to Rachel Reeves’s changes to business property relief
-
Millions of over 50s fear pension investment risk – how should you position your portfolio?
To de-risk or not to de-risk, that is the question. Act too late and you could face irreversible losses. Move too early and miss out on significant gains that could transform your retirement.