We had a nice chat with Jack Stavana, Director of Accessory Operations at Mazda, about what’s new for the new year. Lots of Mazdaspeed branded parts are coming, including a big brake kit for the MX-5 Miata. Although it suffered its share of a stigma as a “chick’s car,” this platform is becoming more of a choice for autocrossers and road racers alike.
Fujitsubo exhaust systems, distributed in the US by Tein USA, are some of the most popular exhaust systems for Japanese cars. The fact that they are an OE supplier to many Japanese car manufacturers only helps in having exhaust applications for practically every car under the sun… except for US spec Japanese cars. The design difference between Japanese and US spec bumpers on many cars meant that a car owner had to modify the piping to make it fit or convert to a Japan spec bumper to make it work. Well, that’s no longer the case. Tein USA is working with Fujitsubo to develop exhaust systems that will fit properly on US spec cars. The first two models are the ever popular RMA01 and Legalis R. Expect these exhausts to start showing up on store shelves around March of 2008.
Aftermarket products account for a $36.7 billion industry. The SEMA Show represents the largest gathering of these companies displaying their best and latest products. It has become an event unto itself extending its influence to all facets of media and entertainment. It has become the Mecca for tuners, gear heads, audiophiles, graphic designers, celebrities and, of course, the car manufacturers themselves. More than ever we are seeing the designs and trends of the aftermarket world trickle down into OEM design and production. Major car manufacturers have begun to listen more closely to the growing influence of the aftermarket forum and are attempting to siphon a share of the ever-booming profits.
