KC Hilites Platform One is an elegant roof rack featuring integrated power.

      KC Hilites

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      KC Hilites has been a prominent name in the off-road industry for many years, and you may have encountered their distinctive yellow smiley-face “Daylighter” lamp covers. Nowadays, the brand is more recognized for its premium LED products. Next month, they will unveil a new light-integrated roof rack system named “Platform One,” featuring an aerodynamic design and some appealing functionalities.

      I’ve been exploring the idea of getting a Lexus GX for my next adventure vehicle, and the availability of this rack for that model is tempting me just a bit. However, you’re right—I’m too frugal to take the plunge… but it’s fun to dream.

      Recently, the KC Platform One was introduced to the public at the Overland Expo, where company representatives showcased various vehicle fitments. They highlighted T-shaped track slots available on the exterior, interior, and top for attaching numerous accessories, as well as an integratable power block for effective wire management. The side lights will offer both amber and white modes. I particularly appreciate the design feature of the rack’s long front wings, which allow for the mounting of round lights positioned lower than those on most other racks.

      While there are already several quality and aesthetically pleasing racks on the market from brands like Prinsu and Front Runner (some of which even work with KC’s lights), I like how the Platform One appears to extend the lights slightly further forward over the windshield. The tall side fascia also adds a unique, somewhat aerodynamic touch.

      I have used a few KC lights on my vehicles and have been satisfied with their performance and design. Last summer, I crashed one into a rock during a hillclimb race, and it still functions properly. I admire the brand's modern take on a classic style.

      YouTuber Adventurous Way of Life recently shared a walkthrough with KC’s Taylor Ulrich from last month’s overland show for a closer look:

      

      Or you can check out the cinematic teaser:

      

      KC is emphasizing the “system” aspect as the key selling point—Platform One promises seamless integration of lights, electronics, a solar charger, and anything else you wish to carry on your vehicle’s roof.

      On the topic of value, the price for this rack will be revealed on July 15 when it launches. KC isn’t the priciest aftermarket lighting brand, but it ranks fairly high. For instance, a 50-inch Gravity Titan round light bar, which appears to be featured in those videos, costs nearly $3,000 on its own. I anticipate that the Platform One rack will be priced around $1,500 before adding the lights and wiring that enhance its functionality.

      As with any automotive modifications, determining whether it’s “worth it” will depend on your budget. If you’re driving an older Montero like I am, it’s better to spend your big bucks on tires. However, if you’re considering dropping $80,000 on a new GX550 Overtrail, this might just be another expense for you, right?

      Initial fitments will be available for the Toyota Tacoma, 4Runner, new Land Cruiser, Lexus GX470, GX460, GX550, 2015+ Ford F-150s (including second-gen Raptors), F-250, and F-350 Super Duties. I wonder if the Bronco and Wrangler will eventually be added to this lineup, as the removable roofs on those models could complicate the rack engineering process.

      For those curious about what “KC” represents, it is a nod to the founders' names in an abstract form. The company was established in 1970 by Peter Kim Brown and his wife Carol, who adapted aircraft lights into truck-friendly housings for off-road usage. Therefore, the “K” stands for Peter’s middle name, while the “C” stands for Carol.

      Have a tip or know about a different rack we should feature? Contact us at [email protected]!