The Story So Far…
Who We Are and Where We Came From
Devon 4x4 began back in 1993, founded by Simon and Liz Buck. By 1995, the business officially became Devon 4x4 Centre Ltd. In the early days, it focused on buying and selling 4x4s — but with every vehicle receiving such care and attention, it wasn’t long before customers started asking if we could look after or modify their own.
In 1994, the first mechanic joined the team, and by 1996 our first apprentice began his journey with us — staying until 2013. Over the years, our team steadily grew, with many long-standing members who still form the backbone of Devon 4x4 today. Keeping it in the family, Simon and Liz’s son Ryan worked his way up through the business and now plays a key role in the day-to-day running as General Manager.
From Competition Roots to Global Recognition
Motorsport has always been a huge part of Simon’s life — and ultimately, the foundation of Devon 4x4’s reputation.
In the mid-1990s, Simon began competing in off-road events, quickly gaining recognition for his skill and determination. Over the years, he has taken part in some of the world’s toughest competitions — including the legendary Rainforest Challenge in Malaysia, which he won in 2002, the Outback Challenge events in Australia and Morocco, the rough terrain of Croatia, and numerous UK and European challenges.
Beyond competition, Simon has also participated in non-competitive expeditions where shared challenges forged lasting friendships and a sense of camaraderie that continues to define the Devon 4x4 community.
These experiences in extreme environments didn’t just shape Simon’s achievements — they helped define who we are as a company. The same precision, reliability, and endurance that drive success in motorsport underpin everything we do at Devon 4x4.
Our Evolution
In the late ’90s, our reputation for quality led to new opportunities. A national 4x4 parts supplier — still one of our closest partners today — asked if we’d be interested in selling their accessories. With a quick chat between Liz and Simon, our telesales business was born, long before e-commerce became common.
By 1999, we launched our first website, followed by a revamped version in 2000 — and we’ve continued to evolve online ever since. The latest site, launched in 2024, reflects our growth into one of the UK’s most comprehensive online 4x4 parts stores.
As our range expanded, we began producing our own components to meet demand — and in 2003, the D44 brand was created. This in-house engineering arm allowed us to develop and manufacture specialist equipment to the same standards we demanded in competition.
Growth and Milestones
- 2000: Construction of our first modern workshop, laying the foundations for growth.
- 2006: Expansion to include a dedicated fabrication department for in-house manufacturing.
- 2007: A new warehouse facility was added, improving parts storage and logistics.
- 2016: The opening of a state-of-the-art warehouse and showroom allowed us to convert the old storage area into a new workshop, complete with four-wheel laser alignment and a dedicated MOT bay. - The fabrication department expanded again with the installation of CNC cutting and a 6-axis press brake, bringing all production fully in-house and improving efficiency and quality control, The original fabrication space became a restoration department.
- 2025 The restoration department has been so successful that in 2025, we secured planning permission for a new restoration and storage facility, scheduled to begin construction in late 2025 / early 2026.
What We Do Today
After more than 30 years, Devon 4x4 has become a leader in the specialist 4x4 world — supplying everyone from weekend adventurers, trade customers and Expedidtion enthusiasts across the globe.
Our services include:
- Mail-order sales of premium 4x4 parts, accessories, and expedition gear.
- Vehicle servicing and maintenance by experienced off-road technicians. Including Full Land Rover diagnostics
- Fabrication and bespoke design, including winch bumpers, chassis builds, and expedition modifications.
- Restoration of classic 4x4s, preserving originality with modern precision.
- Overland and expedition vehicle builds, engineered for reliability and comfort on the toughest journeys.
With one of the largest ranges of 4x4 equipment in the UK and Europe, and a team of skilled, passionate professionals, Devon 4x4 continues to set the standard for quality, expertise, and innovation.
Looking Ahead
Our success has been built on passion, integrity, and the loyalty of our customers — many of whom have become close friends over the years. We’re proud of our past, excited for our future, and committed to continuing the same spirit of innovation and adventure that has defined Devon 4x4 since 1993.
Watch this space — our story is far from over.
