From humble beginnings...
Established in 1975, our company’s origins trace back to Norm’s passion for cars and craftsmanship. What began as a personal project, creating a custom console for his own Ford MKI Escort Panel Van, quickly caught the attention of mates and locals. Before long, there was a line of enthusiasts keen to put a 'Car Console Supplies' custom console in their own classic.
Mid 1970's
A makeshift bench, a few rolls of vinyl, and some sheets of plywood, combined with Norm’s creative vision, sparked the beginnings of what would grow into a respected name in Australian automotive interior accessories.
His mum, Gwynne, stitched the very first covers on her sewing machine. Soon after, his wife Denise became a driving force in the business, helping sew covers, and tirelessly representing the brand at 'The Sydney Motor Show'. Norm’s brother Steven later joined the team, and together they built the momentum that drove the business forward.
Pictured: Norm building a Ford Falcon console in his parents single-car garage in Oatley, Sydney.
After outgrowing the family single car garage, and Denise and Norm's countless hours at car shows, and running local paper and magazine ads, the business moved to a factory in Carlton, where production truly began to take off. Initially specialising in 2WD vehicles, the company quickly built a reputation for crafting seamless, high-quality OEM style interior components.
Pictured: two of Car Console Supplies’ first customers outside the single-car garage in Oatley, Sydney.
Expansion into the 4WD Market
As the demand for 4WD products evolved, so did the business. The rising popularity of 4WDs in the '90s prompted the company to expand its product range to include consoles designed specifically for off-road vehicles. Consoles for popular models, including the GQ Patrol and 40, 60, and 80 Series, marked the start of a new chapter, and the business quickly gained traction in the growing 4WD market.
By the late '90s, the company was producing more than a dozen consoles per week, and by 2010, the team had expanded to 13 employees.
As the business continued to grow, it relocated to its current facility in Kingsgrove, where it operates today with a hardworking and passionate team of 25+.
Commitment to Innovation and Craftsmanship
Our company strives to maintain a commitment to craftsmanship. We have always been strong advocates for Australian manufacturing. Our values are deeply rooted in a dedication to quality and innovation.
Recognition and Influence
Our work has been featured in numerous respected automotive publications, including Vans and Trucks Interiors, Wheels Magazine, Street Machine, 4x4 Australia, and Unique Cars.
Legacy and Vision for the Future
The business continues to uphold the values Norm instilled. Our approach has always been simple: identify a need for interior enhancement, design a product that makes it better.
......and deliver it with a commitment quality, attention to detail, and passion.
Want to learn more about the Story Behind Department of the Interior
In this video, Rohan sits down with Tony Crooke to chat all things DOTI Automotive.
Together, Rohan and Tony reflect on those early days, the evolution of 4x4 modification trends, car audio innovations, and even delve into the wild world of amphibious vehicles (our future demo?).
