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WORKS Brain Flash Software Now Available for 2008 Lancer and EVO X
As stated in our Spring Newsletter, the WORKS Software Engineers have been toiling diligently over the past several months in order to gain entry, decipher and manipulate the various ECUs from the 2008 Mitsubishi lineup. We can finally say that once again, WORKS is the first US tuner to provide ECU tuning/reflash capabilities for the Evolution and Lancer; no piggybacks, no black boxes, no gimmicks—just results. Using our proprietary FlashWORKS hardware, we take the original ECU and alter the various software maps to optimize the output for improved power and torque delivery as well as fuel economy while maintaining smooth and reliable operation. We are also able to extract and maintain the vital information that is unique to each ECU so that nothing is lost or reset to a “default” position in the process.
Our initial release of the WORKS Brain Flash Software will be limited to being offered at our Infineon Raceway headquarters. As things progress, we will also be expanding the service through the mail and/or via our network of Authorized WORKS Dealers (as we do for pre-2008 models). The Brain Flash P1 for the 2008 Lancer models will run $399. The Brain Flash P2 (which also incorporates boost control and a WORKS Boost Hose assembly) for the 2008 EVO X will cost $549. The above introductory pricing includes complimentary tuning on our Dynapack chassis dyno and is subject to change.
Call today to schedule your appointment and stay tuned for upcoming releases of WORKS Power Packages featuring our Brain Flash Software!
WORKS Rolls Out 2008 Evolution Product Line
The WORKS Engineers have been working overtime to make a number of products available for the all-new 2008 EVO X. Our own GSR has served as a test bed for several items and currently features the following:
WORKS Brain Flash P2
WORKS High-Flow Drop-In Air Filter
WORKS Diverter Valve
WORKS Exhale StealthWORKS Performance Muffler
WORKS Clutch Kit 2
WORKS Spin Aluminum Flywheel
WORKS Stainless Steel Clutch Line (prototype)
WORKS Ride Springs (prototype)
WORKS Adjustable Sway Bars - Front and Rear (prototype)
WORKS Pillow Ball Mounts - Rear
WORKS Stainless Steel Brake Lines
WORKS Brake Pads - Blue Compound (prototype)
WORKS Grab Shift Knob
WORKS Throw Short Shifter
WORKS Shifter Console Bushings
WORKS Shifter Cable Bushings
AME Tracer TM-02
Toyo Proxes T1R
Most items listed are available now or in the very near future with many more on the way. Stay tuned!
NASA Hyperdrive at Infineon Raceway
NASA (National Auto Sport Association) will be hosting another HPDE (High Performance Driving Event) at Infineon Raceway, which will feature Hypderdrives that will allow single-session runs with an instructor for a $49 fee. Online registration is open for April 12th and 13th on the NASA website. Be sure to drive up the hill and stop by the WORKS facility while at the raceway.
WORKS Announces Partnership with Mitsubishi Motors North America to Campaign the Mitsubishi Lancer in the SPEED World Challenge Series for 2008
Today the curtains were pulled on the new WORKS-built SPEED World Challenge (SWC) Lancer at the Los Angeles Auto Show. We see this as a great opportunity to get involved in professional racing with a manufacturer whose vehicles inspired WORKS to start in the first place. With significant research and development time already invested into the project, the WORKS SWC Lancer will continue to receive enhancements through the off-season with the goal of running a full racing schedule for the 2008 calendar year. Two-time (2005 and 2006) United States Touring Car champion David Brown will be spearheading the driving effort for 2008.
The WORKS SWC Lancer already boasts an impressive build list including front and rear WORKS/Öhlins coilovers, WORKS two-piece rotors featuring Brembo aluminum calipers, a WORKS racing clutch with ‘Spin’ flywheel, and a fully built and balanced Mitsubishi four cylinder engine. Inside the car there is a WORKS ‘Throw’ short shifter with ‘Grab’ shift knob, WORKS carbon fiber panels, a single Recaro Pro Racer seat, Tilton pedal assembly and a custom roll cage installed by Impact Engineering. Pending final homologation, the SWC Lancer will receive a few more racing and performance parts from WORKS and their partners before heading to tracks across the US and Canada.
Coming right on the heels of our grand opening at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, CA this announcement marks another major step for WORKS as we continue to expand in the motorsports world. WORKS is proud to be part of such a great partnership with Mitsubishi Motors North America and we look forward to running a competitive team for the 2008 season and remaining committed to our mantra: Power, Precision, Passion.
Official MMNA Press Release
Video Clip of Announcement
(Right Click, Save As)
Mitsubishi Unleashes the Next-Generation Lancer Evolution at Los Angeles Auto Show
Noted as the pinnacle of Mitsubishi's rally-inspired technology and engineering, Mitsubishi introduces the 2008 Lancer Evolution, the newest and most sophisticated version of the legendary high-performance model series that began in Japan 16 years ago. Lancer Evolution goes on sale in early winter. While remaining true to the core values that have made the Lancer Evolution synonymous with thrilling performance, the next-generation model offers all-around capability and user technology that distinguish the world's best performance models.
The strikingly styled 2008 Lancer Evolution showcases new performance and handling technology, including an all-new 291-hp (est.) 2.0-liter turbocharged/intercooled engine and the Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) dynamic handling system. S-AWC offers an extraordinary level of control at each wheel, going well beyond the capabilities of other all-wheel drive systems.
The Lancer Evolution's S-AWC system regulates drive torque at each wheel by controlling a network of dynamic handling technologies, including: Active Center Differential (ACD) 4-wheel drive, Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential, Active Stability Control (ASC), and Sport ABS brakes. Integration of ASC is new for all markets. Exclusive to the Los Angeles Auto Show will be an interactive display for event attendees to experience the razor sharp handling of the Lancer Evolution's S-AWC dynamic handling system designed to emulate driving on tough terrains like a winding mountain roads.
Full story can be found here along with more EVO-related news and photos.
WORKS Motorsports EVO VIII RS Wins Debut
WORKS Motorsports won the prestigious 5-Lap EVO vs. STi Tuner Shootout sponsored by Import Tuner and Hankook at Buttonwillow Raceway Park this past week. The event included six Mitsubishi Evolutions and six Subaru Imprezas competing in both Time Attack (fastest single lap) and cumulative (5-lap total) around the famed Buttonwillow race track.
Facing stiff competition, the factory WORKS driver (David Brown) used consistency and smoothness to take the overall victory. “The WORKS street-prepared Time Attack EVO was setup aggressively for the Time Attack portion with the power and overall consistency of the package allowing us to come out on top this afternoon for the 5-lap shootout,” stated Mr. Brown. WORKS utilized a mid-level boost tune to provide just enough power to satisfy the quest for speed versus reliability. Changing temperatures and track conditions required constant adjustments to the chassis, which allowed the WORKS EVO to make the most of its Hankook-supplied racing tires.
Unfortunately, after 32,000+ street and heavy track miles (including four events in as many weeks), the original transmission lost reverse and the ability to shift into 4th gear. We had to pack it up, head home and missed out on the Super Street Time Attack.
At the end of the week, we had the transmission back in the car and rain in the forecast for the weekend’s Redline Super Lap Battle at Laguna Seca. David Brown was anxious to get on course in the wet with the full-tread Toyo R888 tires and we were hoping to try out some new ACD settings.
Due to other projects, we were unable to participate in Friday and Saturday practice and arrived Sunday with little-to-no sleep. Overnight tuning had gone well, but we had a mechanical setback rear its ugly head after the car had been driven down to the track and replacement parts were three hours north. An early morning scramble with several phone calls resulted in the parts being acquired and delivered to the track crew. The on-site staff worked feverishly to get the car back up and running by mid afternoon.
The sun was out and the air was crisp. The WORKS EVO RS was putting the power down with times that would give us a second winner’s trophy in less than a week. It’s said that bad things occur in “threes” and it turned out to be the case with us. The sound meter at the track was triggered and we were over by 1 dB, which means our lap times were null and void. Our only solution to the sound restriction resulted in diminished track times—final results to be published soon. Stay tuned…
WORKS would like to thank Import Tuner/Hankook, Super Street and Redline for sponsoring the events; Buttonwillow Raceway Park and Laguna Seca facilities for hosting; Ball Mitsubishi and Tuning Technologies for lending a hand in the time of need; and the entire WORKS Team, family and friends for their effort and support. The competition was fierce and track management was first rate. WORKS Motorsports looks forward to future events such as these.
WORKS Grand Opening - Thank You!
WORKS would like to thank all that attended our Grand Opening at Infineon Raceway on Saturday October 27th. It was great to see so many faces—new, familiar and those that we don’t see often enough—that made the trek up the hill to our facility. We would also like to expressly thank Mitsubishi for their support, giveaways and allowing us to showcase some of their historic race cars as well as the MRDA Eclipse. We want to thank Infineon Raceway and their staff for making the accommodations at the front gate to allow everyone access to the event. We extend one last thank you to the NASA folks in coming up the hill from the track itself and wishing us well.
The feedback from everyone was overwhelmingly positive—from the facility, to the food, to the cars and the people themselves. It is always a good time when discussing racing and high performance cars while looking over all the wonderful machines that were parked in and around the shop. WORKS hopes that you enjoyed the event as much as we did. Feel free to post your thoughts, experience and/or pictures on our online forum.
We look forward to future events as well. WORKS intends to host open houses with some surprises in the coming years, especially when incorporated with a track event at the raceway. Thanks again and stay tuned!
WORKS/Team Go Green at SCCA Runoffs-Results
For the third year in a row, Michael Santos qualified his 2005 Mitsubishi Evolution MR for the SCCA National Championships Runoffs in Touring 2 (T2). For the third time he has finished in the top ten--progressing further and further up the charts each time. Two out of these three years he's won the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing the greatest number of positions during the race. Mike finished 7th out of a field of 27 and was not only the highest placed EVO, but also out-paced all other AWD competitors. WORKS congratulates Mike and all of Team Go Green for a job well done! We look forward to seeing what takes place in 2008 and beyond.
WORKS Announces Grand Opening at Infineon Raceway
After months of hard work and preparation, WORKS will be unveiling our new headquarters at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, CA on October 27th 2007. The new facility will act as a the main hub for the growing company serving as a full function shop, a research and design center and a proving ground for all new WORKS products. With 6000 square feet of floor space, the shop will also house the main engineering offices and be the home base for all WORKS Motorsports racing activities.
Moving to the track marks a big step forward for our company, which has strong ties to the racing community. It’s one thing to produce parts for consumers that by and large end up on street driven vehicles, but we have realized that by setting up our corporate headquarters directly inside of Infineon Raceway we become more accessible to the customers that place the greatest demands on their vehicles. Having a close working relationship with racers pays dividends in improvements we can make to our own products. The new trackside headquarters also adds versatility to the company. With the new capabilities of the Infineon Raceway headquarters WORKS can tackle any job from routine service to a ground-up race car build.
The opening will take place at 2:00 PM on Saturday October 27th, 2007 with complete MMNA (Mitsubishi Motors North America) factory support. Mitsubishi will co-sponsor the event, which will include several historic Mitsubishi race vehicles (including the famous Lancer WRC05 campaigned by Gigi Galli) and a few yet-to-be-revealed surprises. There will be plenty to see and do with refreshments, goodie bags, rally footage, slot cars, a vintage Japanese and Mitsubishi car corral and a full display of WORKS competition vehicles. All are welcome to join in the festivities and check out the new facility. If you plan on attending the event, please RSVP to rsvp@worksmotorsports.com. A large turnout is expected, so please plan accordingly.
WORKS/Team Go Green at SCCA Runoffs
From: Michael Santos
We had an easy tow and made it in 37 hours including 6 fuel stops, a nap and only 1 blown trailer tire.
The first day of qualifying was OK. The track is way faster this year and I’m giving some time up in 2 turns. We are 14th on the first day and the fastest EVO, but I have one Subie--last year’s championship car with a different driver--to catch.
We were 1.2 seconds faster on the second day of qualifying, but still stayed in 14th spot and still the fastest EVO. I didn’t bed the brakes in good enough on Monday night and had a terrible wheel shake under hard braking. I’m not trying to make excuses, but we should have been faster. We will see what happens on Wednesday as we have a morning session and it will be cold, so the turbo should run good.
We lost the Subie team that killed us all last year, but we gained Team Phoenix with the Solstice GXP. This Pontiac is no joke--not bad down the straight, but wow it’s fast through the corners. It is light with a turbo, huge tires and it’s sitting on the ground. They are 1-2-3 right now.
I think this race is going to string out and be follow-the-leader. I would like to move up a few positions in qualifying so I don’t have to work as hard in the race. There’s a chance it might rain. You know I’m doing the rain dance ‘cause the EVO likes the rain.
Thanks to WORKS for the prep, Hoosier for the tires and Pops and Mike Streets for all the work under the car here at the track!
Check the results of Team Go Green in T2 and all the other participants in the 2007 National Championship Runoffs on the SCCA website. Be sure to look for coverage from SpeedTV airing later this year.
WORKS International
While WORKS is a household name here in North America, we are proud to announce that we have taken root on other continents as well. Thanks to our wonderful new South African dealer, Boosted Performance, WORKS has burst onto the African continent with force. Based in Johannesburg, Boosted Performance helped to keep the WORKS Motorsports legacy alive and well buy taking two WORKS EVOs (an VIII and a IX) to the Ultimate Street Car Challenge in South Africa and putting on an amazing display. Wrapped in sharp offsetting WORKS graphics Maine and his father (who piloted the WORKS EVO VIII) managed to place 12th and 13th respectively for the entire event which was a mixture of road course, gymkhana and straight-line speed trials. With South Africa’s reputation as a sports car haven, we are extremely happy to have Boosted Performance on board and we look forward to getting more updates from the other side of the world.
WORKS Recap from Targa Newfoundland
From: Peter Guagenti
Targa Newfoundland:
Targa Newfoundland 2007 is over. As always, the experience was simply amazing and we proved that a privately-built and campaigned Mitsubishi Evolution can run fast on the Newfie roads and can challenge the big boys.
Below is a recap of our adventure, as found on SpeedTV.com:
Intro to Targa Newfoundland
Our Arrival in St John’s
Prologue
Leg 1
Leg 2 - Exploits
Leg 3 - Kittiwake
Leg 4 - Heritage
Leg 5 - Event Results
We want to thank our event sponsors, WORKS and Toyo Tires, to Marshall Pruett at SpeedTV for the chance to post our story, and to the folks at TC Design and at McGee Motorsports Group who helped us build this fantastic car.
The Passing of a Legend
Along with the rest of the motorsports world, we at WORKS were saddened to hear of the recent loss of Colin McRae. Many of us had watched him over the years through his WRC career and beyond. He brought not only enjoyment, but inspiration to rally fans around the globe. His untimely death is deeply sorrowful and we only wish the best for his family and friends during this difficult time.
To view official news, announcements or to leave a message of condolence, please click here.
WORKS Update from Targa Newfoundland
From: Peter Guagenti
Not much time to send an update tonight, as it is very late and Scott
and I need our sleep.
We've safely made it through our first day of competition. We are now
running longer than we did in 2004. The EVO is just as fast on
these roads as we thought it would be; although the flocks of Subarus
that surround us are more than a match. (The Open class
cars are all running race gas, which surely means lots of power.)
My first full day of competition as a driver went well, with an
unfortunate error on an early morning stage hitting us with a whopping
14 seconds in penalties. Other than that one stage, I've been able to
run clean the rest of the day despite rain and badly broken up roads
(even for Newfoundland) and I'm currently sitting 3rd in class. We're
10 seconds behind a factory Mazda RX-8 and 2 seconds behind a fast
Subaru driven by a very experienced team.
Scott and I will keep pushing on, and I'll keep doing what I can to
keep the shiny side up!
For more information, check out the officialTarga Newfoundland site, SpeedTV.com and Peter's personal website.
Please see the WORKS Webstore for a complete
description of all our products.
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