Tag Archives: Hybrid

Lexus GS450H Race Car

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You might have seen this car on various online sites from SEMA 2010 coverage.

It is the 0-60 magazine built Lexus GS450H track car. Since nobody really has experience increasing power on a Hybrid, builder Gordon Ting, concentrated on all other aspects of a full blown race car. Overall weight was reduced by removing unneeded components and using composite materials, aerodynamics were greatly improved, suspension was upgraded to full 2-way adjustable coilovers, larger brakes front and rear, light weight forged wheels, competition slick tires and of course all the safety gear.

Here is a little closer look and maybe something few people know about.

1) Using custom application Super Racing Coilovers with dual EDFC (both units not yet installed).

2-way damping force adjustment, compression and rebound separately adjustable. Full length adjustment for setting ride height and spring pre-load independently. External reservoir tank for added oil capacity and cooling. Pillowball upper mounts and racing springs complete the kit.

This kit was produced under our Specialized Damper program in which TEIN can create custom coilovers for applications we do not normally produce and in custom specification to meet the customer’s requests.

2) Has the new DEFI ZD display.

DEFI ZD display, one of the EDFC controllers and a host of vital switches on the carbon center console. The unconventional shift knob was fabricated because the OE shifter was way too far forward.

3) The aero was made by TEIN dealer Evasive Motorsports

Dual canards, CF lip and custom CF front splitter from Evasive Motorsports. Forged TE37-SL from Rays and 6-piston neon green calipers from Brembo.

4) The car has a fully function air jack system.

Fully functional air jack system gets this car up in 3 seconds and back down even faster. The ultra aggressive aero and race ride height make the air jacks a necessity for service (imagine trying to get a floor jack under there without them).

You can see this car in the Lexus Booth at the LA Auto Show from 11/19 – 11/28.

Select photos courtesy of Gordon T. of 0-60.

Honda CR-Z Mono Flex Coming Soon

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We recently got a hold of Honda Tuning magazine’s CR-Z to use for Mono Flex testing.

The JDM Spec Mono Flex will be test fitted and road tested. Following our normal testing procedures we will be revalving and tuning the kit to for Time Attack competition.

Look for complete coverage of the build-up in future issues of Honda Tuning magazine.

Honda Hybrid Power

Getting Started

Checking fitment and taking measurements

Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid Testing

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Product testing for the Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid, the highly anticipated successor to the CR-X, has been completed.

H.Tech Lowering Springs & Super Street Coilovers.

The H.Tech Springs will provide a drop of: Front -20mm and Rear -25mm

The Super Street Coilovers will provide a drop of: Front -35mm and Rear -40mm

Drop quantities at this time are only approximations, as Honda has yet to provide information on different Grades, Packages, Equipment, etc.

The CR-Z when it first entered the garage. Almost time for us to begin removing and disassembling the suspension.

With the H.Tech Lowering Springs installed the CR-Z is already looking better.

For those that desire a more aggressive stance and slightly sportier ride quality over the stock suspension.

Riding on Super Street Coilovers the CR-Z now truly looks like a Sport Hybrid.

This product not only provides an aggressive drop, it also has a much sportier feel that won’t compromise your comfort.

These products will arrive on our shelves and be available for purchase very soon.

HYBRIDS

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Compact Hybrids are a growing trend here in the states especially with the soon to be released CR-Z. In Japan the Prius is the number one selling car and a lot of the famous tuners and manufacturers own CR-Zs.

The automotive industry has been pushing the hybrid models and now you can find many models with a hybrid version. I do not consider these real hybrids as they were not designed to be hybrids from the start. The hybrids that were designed to minimize drag and maximize fuel economy are in my opinion, ugly (with the exception of the Porsche 918 Spyder, drool). I get the reasoning but that does not mean it makes for a good looking car. However browsing through Japanese magazines I have seen some nicely modified hybrids that I have opened my mind (I guess almost anything looks better slammed).

Honda Insight from Nisei Showoff this past weekend. Photo from www.speedhunters.com

Mugen CR-Z in Japan. Photo from www.autoguide.com


Tommy Kaira Prius. Photo taken from www.autoblog.com

However in the US, there are VERY few examples of modified Hybrid cars maybe because owners do not think there are aftermarket parts readily available here. TEIN actually manufactures coilover kits and lowering springs for some of the hybrid vehicles (Prius lowering springs are actually a stocking item). We just finished up test fitment and roads tests for the US version CR-Z as well. S.Tech lowering springs, Super Street and Mono FLEX coilover will be available later this year.

Honda CR-Z with Super Street coilovers.

I got a chance to drive the CR-Z and I immediately compared it to my 1988 CR-X. I have had my HF CR-X for a few years and I love it. Sure it does not have any of the amenities of a newer car like power steering, power windows, power mirrors, CD player, bluetooth, etc… but I get  50 mpg (city) and 56 mpg (highway). My 22 year old car actually gets better gas mileage than the CR-Z and Prius. Admittedly it is not as fast or has as much torque but I really like the styling.


My 22 year old Honda CR-X with BASIC coilovers and aftermarket wheels.

One day I might consider purchasing a hybrid but until then I will enjoy my ’88 CRX.