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Discover the Story Behind Cool Mavericks

Uncover the fascinating history of automotive air-conditioning with Cool Mavericks, a stunning hardback coffee table book that brings the untold story of this innovative industry to life. Produced in partnership with VASA, this book is a must-have for enthusiasts and historians alike.

What’s Inside?

Cool Mavericks spans over 600 pages filled with compelling facts, striking photos, and engaging anecdotes that chronicle the journey of the mavericks who revolutionized air-conditioning in vehicles. This book captures the spirit of the pioneers—colorful characters from America, Australia, and Japan—who transformed air-conditioning from a novelty into a standard feature in cars. 

A Labor of Love

After a decade of extensive research and interviews with more than 100 industry pioneers, this book is the first to globally examine the origins of mobile air-conditioning. Learn about the mechanical tinkerers who took risks and shaped an industry that was largely unplanned and opportunistic. 

The authors, Mark Mitchell and Ken Newton, in the roles of business entrepreneur client and public relations consultant, have worked together on projects for more than 40 years. In their roles respectively as foundation president and CEO of VASA, the advocacy, lobbying, conventions and industry stoushes they fought side-by-side equipped them with an intimate knowledge of mobile air conditioning and the people who turned it into a marketing bonanza for more than a quarter of a century. 

Key Highlights: 

  • Innovative Beginnings: Discover how air-conditioning became a necessity in enclosed vehicles. 
  • Pioneering Spirits: Meet the individuals and companies that led the charge, often from small workshops. 
  • Unseen Challenges: Understand the technical hurdles overcome to create viable air-conditioning systems for moving vehicles. 

Why Order Cool Mavericks?

  • Unique Perspective: This is the first comprehensive look at the development of mobile air-conditioning, revealing the unsung heroes behind the technology. 
  • Rich Visuals: Enjoy more than 600 pages of captivating images and diagrams that bring the story to life. 
  • A Collector’s Item: Perfect for car enthusiasts, industry professionals, or anyone interested in innovation and history. 

How to Order

Ordering is simple! Cool Mavericks is priced at $95, with an additional $18.50 for shipping and handling. Select the number of copies you’d like, fill in your contact and payment information, and click Complete Order. Your purchase will be confirmed, and an invoice will be emailed to you. We accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express (no surcharges).