Roof racks had definitely evolved from those first used on safaris. Currently, state-of-the-art roof racks are being cost-effectively shipped in parts for consumer assembly. However, WhiteBoard discovered that users don’t really like bolting the hold kit together. Nor did they care for how clunky it looked on top of their modern SUVs. So when Yakima requested an updated roof rack, the challenge was to improve its appearance and reduce consumer assembly time, yet still keep manufacturing costs down.

WhiteBoard opted to employ tube construction that could be robotically welded in just four spots. This solution provided solid structure and cost-effectiveness while allowing the designers plenty of options for style and function. In the end, WhiteBoard designed and prototyped only two parts—first, an asymmetrical end piece that, when flipped, fits together to make a 6-foot roof rack; then, a middle section that can be added singly or in multiples to extend the rack to any length. Yakima was pleased to offer this easy-to-manufacture, easy-to-install roof rack that looks great on anything, from a VW Bug to a school bus to a sleek SUV.