Tuned In podcast

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1:14:43

Artificial intelligence is evolving at an unprecedented pace—what does that mean for the future of technology, venture capital, business, and even our understanding of ourselves? Award-winning journalist and writer Anil Ananthaswamy joins us for our latest episode to discuss his latest book Why Machines Learn: The Elegant Math Behind Modern AI . Anil helps us explore the journey and many breakthroughs that have propelled machine learning from simple perceptrons to the sophisticated algorithms shaping today’s AI revolution, powering GPT and other models. The discussion aims to demystify some of the underlying mathematical concepts that power modern machine learning, to help everyone grasp this technology impacting our lives–even if your last math class was in high school. Anil walks us through the power of scaling laws, the shift from training to inference optimization, and the debate among AI’s pioneers about the road to AGI—should we be concerned, or are we still missing key pieces of the puzzle? The conversation also delves into AI’s philosophical implications—could understanding how machines learn help us better understand ourselves? And what challenges remain before AI systems can truly operate with agency? If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Sign up for our newsletter at techsurgepodcast.com for exclusive insights and updates on upcoming TechSurge Live Summits. Links: Read Why Machines Learn, Anil’s latest book on the math behind AI https://www.amazon.com/Why-Machines-Learn-Elegant-Behind/dp/0593185749 Learn more about Anil Ananthaswamy’s work and writing https://anilananthaswamy.com/ Watch Anil Ananthaswamy’s TED Talk on AI and intelligence https://www.ted.com/speakers/anil_ananthaswamy Discover the MIT Knight Science Journalism Fellowship that shaped Anil’s AI research https://ksj.mit.edu/ Understand the Perceptron, the foundation of neural networks https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perceptron Read about the Perceptron Convergence Theorem and its significance https://www.nature.com/articles/323533a0…

Tuned In

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High Performance Academy Presents: Tuned In. A podcast interviewing influential people from around the world at the top of their respected fields. Covering topics such as Tuning, CAD, Performance Engine Building, Automotive/Motorsport Wiring, Data Analysis, Driver Coaching/Training, Motorsport Fabrication and Car Setup.

312 episodes

Tuned In

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updated 5 days ago

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312 episodes

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Tuned In

1
Field Report: You've Been Living A Loctite Lie! (Maybe). 8:33

5 days ago8:33

8:33

When it comes to performance parts and tools we all want to reach 'straight for the top shelf' and get the best we can. While that isn't always possible for some high price components, when choosing between purple, blue or red Loctite at the same price point, many assume that red must be the strongest and therefore 'best' option. These people are wrong, and they're possibly also applying the compound incorrectly too! Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in Matthew Eager of Henkel (they own the Loctite brand) helps clear up some of our fair, but incorrect assumptions around red vs blue Loctite and its application, including a common but useless way many of us have been guilty of applying the compound directly to fasteners.…

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132: The Best Stock Turbo System? 1:34:22

10 days ago1:34:22

1:34:22

He co-invented one of the top (and earliest) standalone ECU companies on earth, helped develop unique V10 F1 engines, created ignition systems for top-tier motorsports, and finished it all off by producing stock-frame turbocharger upgrades that push the limits of what a factory turbo is capable of. Mark Boxsell has had a varied and fascinating career in the performance industry, and he’s ready to unpack it all in this episode of Tuned In. Use GTPUMPS100 to get $100 off HPA’s Tuning Starter Package: https://hpcdmy.co/starterb Having grown up on a farm in rural Australia that instilled a drive towards resourcefulness and ingenuity, by his early twenties, Mark Boxsell would latch on to the emerging EFI revolution and create his own fuel injection system for his personal Mazda rotary. And that was just the start. Mark went on to invent one of the world’s first aftermarket standalone ECUs, which we all know today as Haltech. In this episode, we get straight into the mind-blowing history of how Haltech came about, discussing what was involved in creating it, the incredibly basic tools he had at his disposal to make it happen, and how it actually worked. We next discuss Mark’s stint developing a unique V10 Formula 1 engine that used rotary valves instead of the traditional poppet valves. Mark goes into detail about how it worked, and why we never saw it on the grid. Then it’s time to talk about ignition systems, which Mark knows a lot about as one of the founders of M&W Ignition — which supplies series like Australia’s top-tier V8 Supercars. We finish the episode off by moving into Mark’s current venture, GT Pumps. This company specialises in stock-frame turbocharger upgrades, which are currently aimed squarely at the WRX and Evo markets. This gets into some heavy turbo tech, covering the benefits of journal-bearing turbos, stock turbo system capabilities, and more. If you’re into tuning history and love a dose of nostalgia, this episode with Mark Boxsell is an absolute must-listen. Follow Mark here: IG: @gtpumps FB: GTpumps WWW: gtpumps.com.au Don’t forget, you can use GTPUMPS100 to get $100 off HPA’s Tuning Starter Package: https://hpcdmy.co/starterb Timestamps: 0:00 The Best Stock Turbo System? 3:43 How did you get into the automotive industry? 7:57 Why did you decide to try and make your own EFI? And how? 12:53 How did that first EFI system perform? 15:13 How did Haltech start? 23:47 How does the HC11 chip compare to modern ECU chips? 26:49 Once you got the ECU working, how did you sell it? 28:52 Why did you decide to use bar graphs for the interface? 33:23 What were the biggest challenges building those first ECUs? 36:28 Marketing first Haltec ECU continued. 43:15 Why are there so many ECU manufacturers from Australia? 46:05 When and how did you leave Haltec? 53:52 Can you explain the different ignition systems? 59:05 M&W ignition system. 1:00:43 Transition from electronics to F1 engine development 1:05:04 Had the rotary valve been tried by other competitors? 1:09:10 Why did this rotary valve never make it to the track? 1:12:25 How did your current business GTpumps come about? 1:13:25 Why focus on a stock frame turbocharger? 1:17:52 Are journal-bearing turbos dead? 1:21:53 Are you looking to produce stock frame turbos for different models? 1:28:12 Final three questions.…

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Field Report: Is This Tuning Risky Business? 16:22

12 days ago16:22

16:22

If you’ve ever considered an EV conversion but weren’t sure where to start, Ryan from @rywire takes us through the technical details of his incredible Honda Civic EK EV swap, showcasing the integration of Tesla drive units, AEM Electronics VCU, and CSF Radiators for cutting-edge performance and thermal management. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in This lightweight (EV comparative) build features a $1,000 Tesla front drive unit and a $2,200 rear drive unit, delivering 300hp (each!) with infinite tunability thanks to a Cascadia Motion logic board. Ryan explains why switching from Tesla’s OEM controls to standalone AEM strategies unlocks full control over torque split, regen tuning, and thermal strategies—key elements in achieving high performance and reliability. Thermal management is a standout feature, utilizing CSF radiators, Freon-based heat exchangers, and a multi-directional cooling system to optimize temperatures for the motor, charger, and 400V battery pack. With insights from OEM designs, Ryan has implemented a system that ensures the batteries stay in their optimal temperature range, boosting efficiency and performance. Whether you’re interested in OEM vs. aftermarket motors, Bosch brake boosters, or regen tuning with paddle shifters, this build is a masterclass in EV conversions. With a range of up to 400 miles and a weight of approximately 3,400 lbs, this Civic is a lightweight powerhouse that sets a new benchmark for EV swaps. By the end of this interview you should understand that EV tuning is as risky as tuning your ICE powered projects, and without a high level of care for any project you undertake, you can potentially damage expensive components.…

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Field Report: What's So Special About 'Trophy Truck' Suspension? 14:30

19 days ago14:30

14:30

Off-road racing demands suspension that can handle extreme terrain, and Dane from @FOXFACTORY is here to break down the tech behind their world-class dampers. From remote reservoirs to internal and external bypass systems, we explore how Fox designs for the brutal conditions of off-road racing events like the Dakar, Baja 1000 and the Finke Desert Race while keeping the tech scalable for daily drivers. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in Topics discussed in this SEMA interview also include how heat management, damper size, and semi-active Live Valve systems let vehicles like the Ford Raptor and custom trophy trucks tackle everything from high-speed whoops to precision jumps. Also included is a quick explanation of how the system uses ECU data, including from aftermarket options, including MoTeC, rather than complicating things with their own separate electronics. This means existing sensor data is also used, including steering and throttle inputs, pitch, yaw, and of course, speed.…

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131: UNTAPPED Potential? BOVs and Wastegates Decoded. 1:31:58

24 days ago1:31:58

1:31:58

Blow off valves and wastegates are fairly simple in their operation, but correctly sizing and fitting them requires a lot of careful consideration if you want to get the most out of your turbocharged engine. This week, Gregg Jones of TiAL Sport — someone who’s been in the turbocharging game since the mid-eighties — is here to get us up to speed on these simple yet crucial components. Use TIAL50 to get $50 off HPA’s EFI Fundamentals course: https://hpcdmy.co/efifundb Gregg started his career in performance cars in the dark ages of turbo technology. It was the mid-eighties, and there weren’t a whole lot of good options around for the aftermarket boost industry — but working with rudimentary laggy turbos and cast-iron wastegates got Gregg thinking that he could create something much better — so he did. TiAL Sport was formed in 1993 and the company quickly blossomed as turbocharged European and Japanese imports began to filter into the mainstream. In this conversation, Gregg talks us through those early days, touching on how much room for improvement he saw and how his company was able to step up the game year after year. Gregg discusses how his products are designed, tested, and made — as well as where he sees the industry going in the future. We then move into the tech-focused section of the episode, where Gregg drops knowledge on all things turbocharging — especially when it comes to speccing, fitting, and getting the most out of blow off valves and external wastegates. There are some real nuggets of gold to be found in this conversation, and anyone who wants to better understand boosted engine applications is going to be better off for listening to it. Follow Gregg here: IG: @tialsport , @xonarotor FB: TiAL Sport WWW: tialsport.com , xonarotor.com Don’t forget, you can use TIAL50 to get $50 off HPA’s EFI Fundamentals course: https://hpcdmy.co/efifundb Timestamps: 0:00 UNTAPPED Potential? BOVs and Wastegates Decoded 3:14 How did you form an interest in the automotive industry? 8:10 Move to Florida and exposure to turbocharged vehicles 10:24 Early cast iron HKS wastegate 15:34 Why did it take so long for V bands to become the standard? 17:23 What materials did you move to instead of cast iron? 19:12 How have we overcome turbine back pressure? 21:39 What was the design process for these wastegates? 29:21 What are the challenges in designing a wastegate? 34:13 What is the actual benefit to a blow off valve? 40:52 Where’s the best place to put your blowoff valve? 48:13 How do blow off valves work with MAF sensors? 52:32 Do we need to tune the blow off valve for the application? 54:30 Do you have a size guide for blow off valves? 56:17 How do we choose the right wastegate? 1:01:46 What’s the best way to mount a wastegate? 1:04:36 Wastegate springs explained 1:11:56 Is there still room to improve wastegates and blow off valves? 1:16:05 How did you start working with Robert Young and Xona Rota? 1:21:59 What’s next for turbo technology?…

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Field Report: Easiest way to engine swap? | HELLTACO. 6:42

26 days ago6:42

6:42

Engine swaps on modern vehicles are no easy task, but Stewart from @mesocustoms1696 has taken it to the next level with this insane Toyota Tacoma build, featuring a 6.2L Hellcat supercharged HEMI under the hood. In this video, dive into the challenges of integrating late-model electronics and why a turnkey Hellcat system from Cleveland Power and Performance made this swap not only possible but seamless. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in With 800-900 horsepower on tap, at the SEMA Toyo Tires Treadpass stand Stewart explains why the Hellcat package was chosen over alternatives like the 2JZ, emphasizing the importance of retaining factory ECU integration for plug-and-play simplicity. From the OBD2 compatibility to a functional Hellcat gauge cluster and shifter, the truck now thinks it’s a Dodge—but with the soul of a Toyota. Beyond the drivetrain, we explore the custom wide-body fibreglass panels, hand-shaped and perfected using 3D scanning and CNC routing. Stewart shares how this approach not only ensures perfect symmetry but also makes future repairs and reproduction straightforward with reusable moulds. Whether you’re into engine swaps, custom bodywork, or the cutting-edge tech that bridges OEM and aftermarket, this Tacoma build is packed with ideas and inspiration.…

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Field Report: This Build Rocks. 12:39

5 weeks ago12:39

12:39

Rock crawling isn’t just about getting to the top—it’s about doing it with precision, relative speed, and control. In this video, we catch up with Rodney from Lasernut Racing to break down the incredible engineering behind their single-seat unlimited class buggy, built for the toughest rock crawling challenges. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in From low weight and tight packaging to innovative techs like portal hubs and rear-steer functionality, this 10mph max speed and 42" BF Goodrich tyre-equipped buggy is a masterclass in off-road engineering. During SEMA, Rodney takes us through the key decisions, such as using a 220hp 2.0L Chevy LNF Ecotec engine for its compact size and power-to-weight ratio and the ingenious placement of the axle-mounted fuel cell for improved safety and balance. Learn how air lockers and diff locks provide precise control, and how hydraulic winches keep the suspension loaded during vertical climbs. Plus, explore the air suspension system that allows the vehicle to adjust ride height by up to 20 inches on the fly. On the electronics side, Rodney explains how the Ecumaster PMU16 and ADU5 Dash streamline power distribution and steering control using Blink Marine CAN-based keypads. With clever innovations like adjustable steering indicators and a ride height potentiometer, this buggy has no shortage of cutting-edge solutions. If you’re into off-road motorsport or just love clever engineering, this deep dive into rock-crawling tech is one you won’t want to miss.…

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130: Using Your Automotive Skills to Start Your OWN Business. 1:43:30

5 weeks ago1:43:30

1:43:30

Considering striking out on your own in the performance automotive industry? There’s nothing more satisfying than building your own successful business and being your own boss but… getting it right isn’t easy. On this episode of Tuned In, we catch up with M26 Engineering’s Matthew Bernasconi, who we first interviewed back in 2022 just as he was leaving stable employment at offroad legends Kibbetech to build his own business. Use M26ENG50 to get $50 off HPA’s 3D Modeling & CAD for Motorsport course: https://hpcdmy.co/CADb Matthew has designed and machined parts for the automotive and aerospace industries his entire adult life. If you’ve ever encountered any of his popular social media channels, you’ll probably already have a good understanding of just how talented he is. This skill was what first had us reaching out to appear on the podcast two years ago, and considering that episode (linked below) ended on a cliffhanger with Matthew just about to strike out on his own, we decided it was time to fire up the mics again and get caught up on how it’s all gone. This episode is filled with great technical chats about 3D modelling, machining, and component design, all mixed in with quality business discussions that’ll provide a whole lot of inspiration and insight if you’re ever thinking about starting your own company in the performance industry. Listen to Matthew's first episode here: https://hpcdmy.co/mattb Follow Matthew here: IG: @M26Engineering , @matt_eight26 FB: M26 Engineering WWW: m26engineering.com Don’t forget, you can use M26ENG50 to get $50 off HPA’s 3D Modeling & CAD for Motorsport course: https://hpcdmy.co/CADb Time Stamps: 0:00 Using your automotive skills to start your own business. 3:30 Who are you and what do you do? 4:48 What were you doing at Kibbetech? 16:22 What did you learn at Kibbetech that you then applied to your business? 18:27 How did you decide the time was right to start your business? 28:05 Did you start off just doing the design portion and outsourcing the machining? 33:30 Is making one-off CNC parts financially viable? 42:06 Did you have a business plan? 44:37 You’ve been running the business for two years, What’s that journey been like? 54:37 How did you transfer from rapid prototyping to production-style work? 1:00:35 How have you decided what makes and models to support? 1:06:58 How big are these production runs? How many parts are you making at a time? 1:11:18 Why are your parts better/different from the competition? 1:17:10 What’s your opinion on business-to-business or direct-to-consumer sales?1:20:10 How does product development work? 1:25:25 Liability on your products, Is it a concern? 1:28:09 What does M26 look like in 5 years? 1:35:38 Final three questions.…

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Field Report: We're OBSESSED With These Tools! 8:38

6 weeks ago8:38

8:38

Building high-performance engines just got easier! In this video, we’re with Tom from Hughes Race Built to explore how they’re solving one of the biggest challenges in performance engine building: finding the right tools for the job. Whether you’re tackling a 2JZ, RB26, SR20, 4G63 or even Honda’s K and B series, Tom’s specialized and generic option toolkits are designed by engine builders, for engine builders, to simplify the process and make it more accessible for enthusiasts and pros alike. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in From engine-specific kits priced around $580 USD ($1,000 NZD) to their innovative hydraulic balancer puller, these tools take the frustration out of tasks like removing front pulleys, compressing valve springs, and installing piston rings. Tom walks us through how these purpose-built solutions, like their adjustable billet ring compressor, bring the precision of CNC machining to a wide range of bore sizes without the need for multiple tools. If you’ve ever struggled with the limitations of universal tools or wished for something purpose-made for your favourite JDM engine build, this is the video for you. Check out the solutions that are filling a major gap in the market and making engine building more enjoyable than ever. Find out more at https://hughesracebuilt.com/…

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Field Report: Hot Rod or Race Car? 2024's WILDEST BMW E30 Build. 14:36

7 weeks ago14:36

14:36

Running a 725hp Texas Speed LS-based build and TREMEC Magnum transmission, Cam Cocalis has followed on from his LS3 V8 Toyota 86 build with a full chromoly tube frame BMW E30 Vert project and pushed himself to dive into some new build aspects, a C6 Corvette suspension swap in particular, as he continues to learn the ins and outs of fabrication and custom car building. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in At the @toyotires booth during @semashow Cam gives us some insight into his welding progression and working process without the use of CAD, with that being a skill he wishes to learn during future projects. The CSF triple pass radiator is rear mounted to aid with weight distribution, and interestingly, this model of E30 came with rear ballast from the BMW factory. The Radium Engineering fuel system behind the Ford 8.8 rear diff also helps to get weight over the rear and a 48/52 split. The Redux Racing ITB-equipped 7L LS-based engine is controlled by a suite of Haltech electronics, and a Live To Offend kit is fitted to the E30 care of SOS Customs handiwork. We didn't get a rundown on the full brake package, but a Wilwood pedal box is equipped which will serve Cam well if he decides to hit the track for some time attack racing in the future.…

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Revisted: Project Binky — Stuffing a GT-Four Driveline Into a Classic Mini. 2:09:34

7 weeks ago2:09:34

2:09:34

*** We’ll be taking a break over the Christmas/New Year period and will be back in action mid-January. That means that although there won’t be any new episodes for a few weeks, we’ll be taking another look at some of our favourite conversations from 2024. *** If you’ve spent any time on YouTube, you’re probably already aware of this episode’s guest and the various projects his channel is involved in — most famously “Project Binky”, a classic Mini running a Toyota Celica GT-Four engine and AWD driveline. Richard Brunning from Bad Obsession Motorsport joins us to down a few cups of tea, talk motorsport, and run through the ins and outs of neverending project cars, the business of operating a popular automotive YouTube channel, and much more. Use “BAD100” to get $100 OFF our HPA Motorsport Fabrication Package: https://hpcdmy.co/fabpackageb Richard, like many guests of this podcast, has his father to blame for his motorsport obsession. Some of his earliest memories involve hanging out in old sheds while his Dad restored vintage vehicles, tickling up RC cars to get the edge in racing, and days spent on the couch watching Formula 1. This early focus on all things automotive drove Richard towards a life that revolved around motorsport, first starting out in kart racing, before moving on to Caterhams, formula cars, and even some Formula Mazda racing in the States. In this episode, Richard spends time talking us through these different forms of motorsport, and discusses how each type of vehicle could be set up, tweaked, and modified within the rules in order to gain more speed. Eventually, Richard’s good friend and eventual partner in crime, Nik Blackhurst, enticed Richard back to the UK to help him go rallying, and it was at this point, way back in 1992, that Bad Obsession Motorsport began. Fast forward a good few years, and Richard and Nick were fed up with the car modification TV shows like Pimp My Ride, Monster Garage, and their contemporaries that were on offer at the time — none of them actually showed why and how any of the work was done. This got the pair thinking that they might be able to do better, and with that goal in mind, the Bad Obsession Motorsport YouTube channel was founded. It took a couple of years, but Richard and Nick’s channel began picking up steam, not in small part thanks to “Project Binky”, a Toyota Celica GT-4 powered and driven classic Mini. Richard dives deep into this build, answering our burning questions — chiefly ‘Why’? But also “What’s taking so long”? This in-depth discussion around the challenges of fitting so much engine and driveline into such a small package is a great look into what it takes to complete a complicated project to a high standard. Lastly, we also spare some time time to touch on the joys of motorsport wiring, ultra-budget racing in the City Car Cup, and making a living out of building cars on YouTube. Follow Bad Obsession Motorsport here: IG: @badobsessionmsp FB: Bad Obsession Motorsport YT: Bad Obsession Motorsport WWW: badobsessionmotorsport.co.uk Don’t forget, you can use “BAD100” to get $100 OFF our HPA Motorsport Fabrication Package: https://hpcdmy.co/fabpackageb…

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Field Report: It Just Makes Sense — Turbosmart Turbos. 17:45

8 weeks ago17:45

17:45

Turbosmart is well known for many quality performance accessories including wastegates, blow-off valves, fuel pressure regulators, anti-lag valves, boost controllers and more, but until recently they stopped short of selling turbochargers themselves. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in At the World Time Attack Challenge, Matt Wright gives us some insight into how Turbosmart decided to not only sell turbochargers but to sell their own designed in house with help from industry experts like Harry Hruska to get the ball rolling. There's no two ways about it, this move simply makes sense for a company like Turbosmart to explore. Unlike how design was done by the pioneers of aftermarket turbocharging years ago using a lot of prototyping, these days Matt explains how the use of computer-aided design (CAD) software and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) means a lot more theories can be discussed and tested before physical prototypes are made, giving Turbosmart the chance to explore a lot of design elements that traditionally would simply be too expensive to entertain. Also touched on are some of the material and manufacturing considerations, turbo selection and how leveraging industry experience helps decide what target markets want a wider range of turbocharging options/solutions.…

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Field Report: GAME CHANGER! Torque Delivery Decoded. 14:29

9 weeks ago14:29

14:29

In this pit lane interview, Sean from Ramsdell Racing will explore the advanced EMtron ECU technology behind the Dream Project S15 at the World Time Attack Challenge. Sean breaks down how the EMtron ECU is one option using traditional OEM tuning strategies to transform power management in high-performance applications, making it possible to deliver more and more horsepower effectively through the tyres and onto the race track. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in With Emtron’s sophisticated tractive force calculation, Sean explains how the ECU is optimizing torque delivery based on real-time data from tyre diameter, diff ratios, gearbox ratios, and more. This technology ensures the S15 can push the limits while maintaining traction in every gear, ultimately translating to faster lap times and a smoother driving experience. A major innovation highlighted in this interview is throttle mass flow modelling, which lets torque be precisely mapped to the driver’s foot pedal. This linear relationship offers drivers enhanced control, enabling quick adjustments without sacrificing power. This level of control, traditionally seen only in OEM systems, is now at the forefront of the aftermarket scene with Emtron’s developments.…

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Revisted: Twin-Charging — Good Idea or Unnecessary Complication? 2:03:35

9 weeks ago2:03:35

2:03:35

*** We’ll be taking a break over the Christmas/New Year period and will be back in action mid-January. That means that although there won’t be any new episodes for a few weeks, we’ll be taking another look at some of our favourite conversations from 2024. *** Anyone with even a passing interest in Time Attack has likely heard of Norris Designs, a UK-based tuning company probably best known for its insane north-south oriented, twin-charged, short-wheel base Evo IX time attack monster. On this episode of Tuned In, we sit down with founder Simon Norris to get some insight into this brain-melting build, plus much, much more. Use “NORRIS100” to get $100 off our HPA Tuning Starter Package: https://hpcdmy.co/starterb Like many of us, Simon Norris began his love affair with cars and motors early in life, pulling apart engines on the kitchen table as a child. While there was a slight detour after leaving school to study engineering, it wasn’t long before Simon spied a new opportunity in the burgeoning JDM aftermarket tuning scene just as he was cutting his teeth working in a Nissan dealership in the mid-nineties. So, after seeing how others were starting to mess with tuning ECUs, Simon decided he could do better, and promptly opened Norris Designs way back in 1998. Nearly three decades later, Norris Designs is one of the biggest names in the UK tuning scene. In this conversation, we first kick into the business side of Simon’s life, finding some great insight into what works and what doesn’t when it comes to building a company in the motorsport industry. We next get into tuning in general, where Simon discusses different ECU options, dyno styles, and the many factors that can cause discrepancies between individual dyno runs. From there it’s on to the real meat and potatoes of this episode — Simon’s incredible Mitsubishi Evo IX. With its north-south-orientated billet supercharged AND turbocharged 4G63, the AWD Evo is an engineering masterpiece that absolutely tears up any race circuit it’s unleashed upon. Simon does his best to answer the many questions we have about this car in an attempt to get to the bottom of what makes this shortened and roof-chopped weapon tick, and why Simon made the choices he has with this build. Follow Norris Designs here: IG: @norris_designs FB: Norris Designs YT: Norrisdesigns WWW: norrisdesigns.com Don’t forget, you can use “NORRIS100” to get $100 off our HPA Tuning Starter Package: https://hpcdmy.co/starterb Time Stamps: 3:41 How did you get into cars? 8:25 Did you have much industry experience before starting your business? 12:39 What sparked the interest in JDM cars? 16:18 How did Norris Designs grow? 25:56 Overview of Norris Designs today 31:12 What does your day-to-day look like at Norris Designs? 38:36 What vehicles are you specialising in? 42:54 How did you learn to tune? 52:44 Are you relying on knock control and close loop fuel control? 57:35 Did you start with an engine dyno or rolling road? 1:01:17 Do you have fixtures and harnesses for quick and easy engine dyno setups? 1:02:27 How accurate is the engine dyno? 1:10:23 Repeatability issues with rolling road 1:14:16 ECU of choice? 1:20:20 What is a short wheelbase Evo 9? 1:24:33 Engine package 1:34:45 Billet blocks for street applications? 1:38:41 Twin charge setup 1:44:24 Transmission 1:50:39 What’s next in the development of the car? 1:52:33 Lap time difference with new aero package…

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Field Report: This Little 880hp 3-Cylinder Is WILD! 14:12

10 weeks ago14:12