So you want to set a transcontinental driving record huh? Thought you’d just gas up the car, grab some maps and drive like hell did ya? Well, that might have worked in the early days when Brock Yates organized the Cannonball Baker Sea to Shining Sea Memorial Run, but it won’t cut the mustard in today’s world. North American police forces are equipped with some pretty serious high tech stuff, all aimed at making sure you won’t succeed in setting that record.

The modern record chaser has to put some serious thought into car prep, otherwise it will just be a joy ride. In the video after the break, Alex Roy outlines all the upgrades that were made to the infamous M5 Interceptor. Everything you see was absolutely necessary. Well, ok maybe the lights were there for show, but aren’t flashing lights a good thing?

During the record attempt, Wired Magazine’s Charles Graeber was along for the ride and has an incredible 6 page recounting of the experience complete with photos and video.