The Story Behind the Driver: Jack Dean and His Love for Japanese Car Culture

Japanese car culture has long been a source of fascination for enthusiasts worldwide. From its legendary engineering to its boundary-pushing modifications, Japan has influenced global car culture in ways that few other countries have. One such enthusiast, Jack Dean, has taken this passion to heart, turning his love for JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) cars into a way of life. This is his story—a journey through the streets of Peterborough, the thrill of his Skyline, and the deep-rooted respect he holds for Japan’s automotive heritage.

Meet Jack Dean

Jack Dean, better known on Instagram as @Hatsune_Skyline, was born in 2000 and resides in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, England. By profession, he’s an engineer, working in a facility that produces diesel engines. His appreciation for mechanical design extends beyond his work—his love for combustion engines fuels his passion for cars.

Beyond the automotive world, Jack’s interests are as diverse as they are intriguing. He’s an Advanced Open Water Scuba Diver, having explored underwater landscapes from Australia to Mexico. His family also owns a Green Wing Macaw named Poppy, adding a unique twist to his household. And in one bizarre twist of fate, he once witnessed a crime unfold, realizing in the moment that his CPR skills might need some work!

The Beginning: A Love Affair with Japanese Cars

Jack’s introduction to Japanese cars was cinematic—literally. “Fast & Furious” was his first major influence, introducing him to the world of high-octane JDM machines. At just four years old, he sat with his dad and watched the neon-lit world of tuners come to life. The passion was further fueled by hours spent playing “Need for Speed: Underground,” where he could virtually modify and race his dream cars.

But it wasn’t just movies and games that ignited his love for cars—it was family. His father, a dedicated car and bike enthusiast, owned an XR3i Escort in the 1980s and continued his passion with vehicles like the Mercedes 190 and Kawasaki Z series. Growing up around such dedication to cars cemented Jack’s lifelong admiration for automotive craftsmanship.

The Ongoing Project

As any JDM owner knows, a car is never truly “finished.” Jack envisions future upgrades, including Hatsune Miku Vertex BRIDE seats and RAYS wheels. “Our show cars are a reflection of our character, and as we change, so do our cars,” he says.

Despite the continuous work, the best part of the Skyline remains its standout Itasha livery—a true embodiment of Japanese car culture. The only downside? “The fact I can’t drive it every day!”

Japan: A Cultural Influence Beyond Cars

Jack’s admiration for Japan extends beyond its automotive scene. He marvels at its advanced technology, from bullet trains to robotic parking systems. He’s also fascinated by ancient Samurai history and has a deep appreciation for Japanese cuisine—particularly Melon Pan, Chocorooms, and Ramune.

Though he hasn’t been to Japan yet, it’s high on his bucket list. “Daikoku, Fuji, Osaka—there’s so much I want to experience firsthand.” Auto Salon is also a dream event he hopes to attend, witnessing Japan’s tuning scene in its purest form.

Saitoworks: A Brand That Feels Like Home

Jack’s love for Japanese car culture extends to the brands that embody it. He first discovered Saitoworks when he bought his Skyline, noticing the brand’s decals and sunstrip already on the car. Impressed by the quality, he became a loyal customer.

“Saitoworks is in a league of its own,” he says. “It’s like a designer brand for JDM enthusiasts. The Nobori flags, tees, stickers—everything is top-tier.”

At trade shows like Gravity, Saitoworks stands out with its unmatched presence. “Best stand I’ve ever seen at any event,” Jack notes.

The Legacy of Japanese Car Culture

For Jack, Japanese car culture is more than just a hobby—it’s a lifestyle. It has shaped his customization preferences, driving habits, and overall appreciation for automotive artistry. He believes Japan has had the biggest influence on global car culture, producing some of the best-engineered and most visually stunning vehicles of all time.

With plans to visit Japan, continue modifying his Skyline, and stay immersed in the JDM scene, Jack Dean is a true embodiment of what it means to be a passionate car enthusiast. His Skyline isn’t just a car—it’s a statement, a tribute, and a dream brought to life on four wheels.