Mini Cooper LED underbody problem.

Guys, I need your help.

I've planned to install a euroeffects underbody lighting kit, (pink) in my sister's Mini Cooper while she's away on vacation.  It's going to be a suprise.... hopefully!

Enough story, now my problem:

In order to install an underbody kit, you need an underbody to attach it to.  The front tube and side tubes will be a snap to install, but I'm left with the rear end.  The tube WOULD fit under the rear bumper were it not for the exhaust's tailpipe.  There is very VERY little room to work with back there as there is nearly no overhang on the back end.

Should I shorten my LED tube?  If so, how the heck do I do that?  Should I heat shield the tube and have it crossing over the tailpipe?

I'd prefer keeping the tube in one piece, but any help is hugely appreciated.

I've included a pic of my problem to help you 12Volters understand what I'm faced with.  The measuring tape represents the actual length of the tube.

Thanks!

Hound

Run the tube the length of the car down the middle. It will get the tube under it without modification.

Try to keep it at least 3" away from the exhaust system. Any closer and you risk melting the tempered acrylic usually surrounding LED kits.