Lean Green Racing Machines
Who on Earth fixes up a hybrid? Who would bother fixing up the most uninspiring kryptonite to true automotive fans? A select few do, and that number is growing fast.
It’s no secret that sales of hybrids are exploding, despite petty problems such as the global recession depression, the massive earthquake in Japan that paralyzed Japan’s auto industry for months. Hybrids are the hot topic, convenient, efficient, and eco-friendly chic. The automotive aftermarket is quick to catch on to trends and have introduced hybrids at major shows such as SEMA and TAS. The shows start with the typical exterior upgrades, bodykits, lights, accessories, but now we have started to see the performance modified hybrids.
The tuner Bisimoto took the idea of performance hybrids from 0-100 with their 533hp Honda CR-Z which appeared at the 2010 SEMA show. With a massive Turbonetics turbo, a completely built engine, and running a AEM standalone, theCR-Z kept the factory hybrid system and is claimed to satisfy both jobs of massive horsepower and the efficiency of a hybrid. Bisimoto has tested the car on dynos, ¼ mile tracks, and even autocross.
So what types of people are fixing up hybrids? In some ways think back to the early 1990s and who was fixing up the Honda Civic hatchback and you’ll have your answer. Before you scoff at the idea and silliness of fixing up a hybrid, remember the ridicule enthusiasts got in the beginning of the import craze when they put an intake on a 92hp Civic. The hybrid scene is in its infancy and although there are some obstacles in the way of performance, keep in mind the obstacles the Civic owner faced with a 1.5L I4 against the 5.0 and 5.7L V8s of the domestic muscle cars in the early 1990s. The people who are fixing up the hybrids are much the same, young, resourceful, and thinking out of the box.
How far will the aftermarket scene go for the hybrids? With manufacturers offering more and more hybrid choices in different market segments, with trendsetters like Bisimoto, and the undeniable efficiency and practicality of hybrids, let’s just say the next time you find yourself at the light looking eye to eye with a hybrid owner you may want to think twice- it may not leave you sucking its exhaust fumes, but you sure might be reading out the ever smaller letters H-Y-B-R-I-D.
About In Sixth Gear:
ISG was founded by enthusiasts to help others with the same interest to follow their passion for sports cars and making them unique for our customers. ISG strives to connect our customers with the finest aftermarket auto parts for their luxury cars or exotic cars with a level of service and knowledge that only true enthusiasts have. Whether you are looking for aftermarket performance auto parts or looking for exotic cars for sale, ISG is your one stop shop.