So, like, back in 2023, Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) made a big move by combining forces with Honda Performance Development (HPD) to streamline their racing efforts worldwide. No more separate divisions, just one big happy family under the HRC name. And guess what? They’re not just about racing anymore. HRC US is diving into the world of performance parts for Honda and Acura vehicles.
To show off their new gig, Honda is slapping their flashy HRC logo all over Alex Palou’s No. 10 Chip Ganassi Racing Honda for the upcoming IndyCar race at Barber Motorsports Park. And let me tell you, it’s a sight to see.
Now, HRC isn’t just talking the talk. They’ve been teasing some of their performance parts on concept cars, like the yellow Acura Integra Type S that made waves at last year’s Monterey Car Week. This bad boy is all about function, with new front and rear fascias, a performance hood, side splitters, and a big ol’ rear wing borrowed from the Integra Type S TCX race car. Oh, and forget about luxuries like air conditioning and backseats – this prototype is all about hitting the track with a carbon fiber shelf for your spare tires.
But hold up, they’re not spilling all the beans on the drivetrain upgrades just yet. It’s all hush-hush for now, but rest assured, it’s gonna pack a punch.
Last November, yours truly got to witness Red Bull F1 driver (VCARB at the time) Yuki Tsunoda tear up the track in that prototype Integra. He loved it so much that he begged the HRC US president for one of his own back in Japan. Talk about a stamp of approval.
And get this, rumor has it that these performance upgrades will pave the way for a new high-performance trim above Honda’s Type R and Acura’s Type S models. HRC’s vice president spilled the beans, saying it’s gonna be the ultimate ride that’s street legal but just wild enough to scare off your significant other from tagging along.
Oh, but that’s not all. HRC also flexed their muscles at last year’s SEMA show with a Honda Pilot HRC Prototype decked out with off-road goodies like fenders, suspension lift, rock sliders, and more. They’re really going all out with this performance parts game.
So, if you’re itching to add some extra oomph to your ride, keep an eye out for what HRC has in store. Who knows, maybe you’ll be cruising around in a souped-up Honda or Acura sooner than you think.
