Editor-in-Chief: Nick Nazzaro
Graphic
Marketing Manager: Ryan Stanson
Managing
Turcotte
Contributing
Turcotte Ryan Stanson
Phone Number: 860-291-0015
Email Address: marketing @subimods.com
Postal Information: 9 Old Windsor Road, Unit 9B Bloomfield, CT 06002
Website: subimodscom
WORDS: Bryon Turcotte
For those dedicated drivers in the New England region who may have a small obsession with a sport called Drifting, it all began on Saturday, March 22nd at around 9:00 AM, when venturing out to the historic Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park in Thompson Connecticut will be no less than a pilgrimage for the dedicated lovers of this sport. Lock City Drift of Somers, CT has successfully launched another raucous season of "Grassroots Drift Days" which has brought some serious attention to more than just another weekend day out to a local racetrack. Lock City has grown to become a premiere organization who repeatedly exposes this sport with positive actions. Drifting enthusiasts in this region know that the crew at Lock City Drift is more than a group of average drivers who get together every weekend.
A journey out to this event from the region where western Connecticut and Massachusetts meet, is something as picturesque as a classic New England novel. At the end of these winding back roads you quietly enter Thompson, but you will immediately realize the pride that exists with the appearance of a large, colorful sign which introduces the entrance to this popular home of drifting and motorsports. Seen is a diverse crowd built with people of all ages, races, and backgrounds but those who share something that can only be accurately explained by witnessing. A more tangible feeling comes as soon as you begin to walk along the paddock and pit areas, since it is evident how sharply focused and dedicated those driving during this event will prove.
Within an hour of arriving at the event and settling in to observe and get a lay of the land, the traditional announcement rings from the loudspeakers that there will be a drivers meeting held on the paddock before the events officially start. Founder Mike Lynch's voice snaps the mumbling chatter with an enthusiastic, "How's everybody doing today?", prompting the crowd of mostly familiar visitors to respond in kind. After thanking the group for their attendance and reminding how much work everyone has accomplished by preparing their cars over the winter, Lynch adds, "I want you to remember that on your first lap, and your second lap, and your third lap, OK? Take it easy! Nobody wants anything bad to happen." Lynch confirmed the event's methodology, overall process, and quickly outlined the specifics regarding the drift layouts to be used during the event, including the "Skid Pad", "Clubhouse", "Road Course", and the "Oval".
Per the Lock City website, the Skid Pad, located at the rear of the park, is a course "where C group drivers learn the basics and hone their skills and B group drivers get their tandem practice." The 1 1/2 lap course is "now a true kidney bean" according to Lynch's explanation, primarily due to his own efforts in preparation for this event. Finishing both the navigation and safety priorities of this beginner course, Lynch kept on theme by encouraging how successful the driving experience can be by simply following the process they have designed. Moving forward with his focus, he brought his overview primarily to the Clubhouse and Road Course which would be running the entire day, with the exception of the times the back section would be used. The Clubhouse course at Thompson was specifically designed for drifting and allows drivers to take two laps before exiting back onto the road course. The highspeed Road Course layout starts at the end of Thompson's long straightaway track section then loops around the clubhouse course.
Lynch stressed the tightness and difficulty of these courses and the importance of paying attention to the areas of both exiting and entering each session. Since there are many factors for drivers running on Clubhouse, Road Course, and the Oval, he mentioned more clearly how the driving levels would be segmented. Assigning and providing A, B, and C group stickers to drivers - signifying a driver with the least experience at C and the most advanced with A, all drivers could have possible promotion or demotion of grade with a plus or minus designator. This depends on their individual performance and improvement over the course of the event. "If you get a plus, that means, for the remainder of that event, maybe the next event, you'll be with the next group just to see how you do," Lynch added. "Besides the track where you drive, the big difference is the pace," he stressed. "How do we push you? How do we get you to the next step? This is the plan we came up with and we're hopeful it will work well." Lynch punctuated.
Participants and spectators quickly scattered to their positions and readied themselves for a day of thrills and motorsports artistry. As you take the long walk along the first grid of vehicles, you are instantly made witness to anticipation and nervous energy. Many have been waiting patiently over the winter months to achieve or simply regain another moment of tangible adrenaline behind the wheel at the beginning of a new season. Inexperienced eyes may expect to see a collection of cars with very similar exteriors, sound, or motorsports-flavored profile. Looking down the line will quickly confirm that not all those at this level prepared to demonstrate their drifting prowess were created equally or have the same goals as their peers. Standing and observing at the fence line along the Skid Pad course will expose the spectator to a wide range of driving skills, and the unique, individual vehicle choices. As the day got its start, a familiar collection of brands and models rolled up to take a run. Over time, as each entered the pattern, even the most novice observer could quickly determine which driver is destined for greatness, and who is not.
Craving more excitement from a higher level of skill brings us over to the other side of Thompson where the dial is moved to a setting of unpredictable emotion. Moving across the paddock, through the pit area, and up the hill brought us a more dramatic view of this event. Watching a group of vehicles enter the Road Course will definitely transport the inexperienced spectator to a realm where raw performance and energy are released from their cages. As the vehicles symbolically dance across the course tightened by each twist and turn, it would be easy to believe without evidence that each vehicle is an organic extension of its driver's soul. Witnessing run after run will quickly convince new eyes that each is connected by wire or magnetics. Hundreds of drivers and cars from all around the region lined up to make their best attempt to tantalize the crowd. Again, a wide range of vehicles, including Team Subimods and their 2023 BRZ, launched onto the track to progress through the ranks and prove their worthiness on opening day.
Several experienced drifting teams were representing their skills well at the event, including drivers from the "Loose Luck" and "StreetDreamz" who proved that practicing their dance moves pays off when performing their art on a bigger, more challenging stage. Just when you think you have seen the most unique technique or skillful move with an automobile, another driver pushing the envelope will slide around the corner. The enthusiast community in this region has benefited from the efforts and dedication of Lock City Drift for building a good foundation for learning, encouragement, and execution of what makes the art of drifting such an intriguing and important sub-genre in motorsports. When exiting the park, two teenagers were overheard saying, "I've never been to a racetrack before," one said. "I only came today because my dad's friend has a drift car, but now I can't wait to come back!" The other chimed in saying, "Yeah, today was FIRE!" The beginning of a new season in 2025 has shown promise to be the seed that helps the growth of a bigger, more educated, and a more inspired community.
Lock City has an exciting schedule for the 2025 season for enthusiasts from the Northeast, but are welcome to drivers and spectators from and all over the country. Events like these spark both passion and excitement, but also create a legacy for younger generations to embrace and further expand community. They will host ten more events in 2025.
LockCityDrift2025Schedule:
• Spring Session – April 25-26th
• Mayhem Weekend – May 16-17th
• June Jam Session – June 27-28th
• Night Stage Invitational – July 25-27th
• August Heatwave – Aug. 8-9th
• Back 2 School – Sept. 12-13th
• Night of The Living Shred – Oct. 31st-Nov. 1st
• Falls Finest – Nov. 22nd
• Nutcracker Bash – Dec. 6th
Compressive Tuning has become a premiere brand and major icon in the industry while remaining steady as global leader in handcrafted performance parts development. The California-based organization is staffed with a team of Subaru performance specialists who weave extreme creativity, innovation, artistic personality, and craftsmanship into everything they create. Unlike many other companies within this competitive space, Compressive Tuning has set themselves apart from the mainstream and captured the attention of the world's most demanding, quality-oriented enthusiasts.
AWORDS: Bryon Turcotte serious enthusiast is much more than an individual who is simply into cars and the surrounding culture. We arrived in Franklin Square, New York to visit with 26 year old Matt Haubenreisser, the proud owner of a 2020 Subaru WRX STI.
Matt did not come to this love affair later in life. It has been a soulful relationship which has been building into a passion over many years. A resident of Nassau County, Haubenreisser proudly admits that he has lived and cultivated his enthusiasm for cars on Long Island his entire life. "My passion for cars began when I was a little kid," Matt confirmed, "I would always go to my aunt and uncle's house and stay with them." These were definitely formative times since his uncle had both a C6 Chevrolet Corvette and a 1968 Yenko - Chevys Super Camaro - a favorite of serious collectors for years. His early exposure fueled his interest towards performance. "I was always around cars and we used to watch Nascar all the time," he said "That’s when the itch started." Matt told us about two cars that were obviously prompting him to wrap noticeable time around learning and doing more related to performance. Matt recalled by saying, "I'm not sure if it counts as ‘performance’ but it was a 1997 Honda Civic EK coupe. It had a B20 engine swap with an Integra GSR transmission... I did not do any modifications. My first REAL performance car was my 2008 WRX Hatchback," he confirmed with pride.
Entering his high school years not only lifted Matt to a new level of education for life, but also began to shape the dedicated Subaru enthusiast. The decision to buy a Subaru has always been a cherished memory. "I decided I wanted to buy a Subaru back in high school," Haubenreisser explained. "Getting that itch of watching videos of 'BEST SUBARU WRX STI RUMBLE' and just getting addicted to how these cars looked, and sounded. Especially with an EWG (External Wastegate)," he noted. As the years ticked by, Matt's exposure broadened and knowledge grew. This transitioned him from that wide-eyed young boy struck by inspirational contact with performance, to a practitioner and believer in a brand that turned his head and helped his heart evolve into a knowledgeable driver and mechanic through his simple daily focus. "I would say my level of automotive expertise and degree as a Subaru enthusiast is pretty high," Matt confirmed. "I’ve been with the brand for almost 10 years now and owned multiple Subarus. My first one being a 2008 WRX hatchback." We now know that his love for automobiles and performance did not blossom from his first exposure to Subaru. His pure motivation led to a critical gateway and journey to an important future modification and life changing process. As with Matt, the investment of time, money, and emotion are all elements that exist in every enthusiast's modification journey.
Haubenreisser jumped on his modification road with a platform choice that is an undisputed high performance favorite of Subaru's modifying community. The carmaker released the popular WRX STI sedan in 2020 with a personality for potential. The vehicle's stock 2.5-liter four-cylinder, 310-horsepower engine, six-speed manual transmission outfitted with a marketplace impressive allwheel drive system was born as fuel for inspiration. It rolled off the assembly line flavored with a history of championship rally becoming a magnet for any young enthusiasts looking to transform a dream into reality. Speaking with Matt about how he fell for this symbol of lean and mean, it was easy to translate his words into pure dedication. "I chose the VA because to me it's perfect even when stock," he said, confirming the overall impression from so many others. "I love how they look. It has a mix of modern features but that raw EJ feeling and the perfect 6 speed transmission," he added. "The platform is very capable and has a lot of aftermarket support." Aside from all the stock performance capabilities he saw in his first attraction, the style and modern design was also an easy sell. "The interior is perfect and has many creature comforts," he added. "I love my heated seats and Apple Carplay." It is clearly evident that at the time Matt had a clear vision for his new acquisition.
Thankfully reflecting on his resources when asked about total cost, Matt noted, "Honestly, I am not sure. I am very thankful for the last two years I grew and made some amazing sponsorships that helped me out with my build." Haubenreisser had to reflect on any serious, show stopping problems that could have happened along the way, but so far could not report any problems of that magnitude. "The only issue I had was with the Killer B Inlet," he confirmed. "That’s when I had to pull the manifold and do the Grimmspeed 8mm TGV Spacers," proving that every project, no matter how much preparation and experience is interwoven in the process, has the potential for some disappointment. Some may conclude that Matt has reached the end of this journey and has nothing else to do on his favorite platform. Nothing could be further from the truth. Matt has more ideas under his sleeve that he is excited to apply to his Subaru WRX STI. "Type RA calipers and the JDM 4 Pot Rear are next on my list," Matt confirmed. "Possibly new wheels along with a Varis Rear Bumper and Wing." Confirming the overall payback he has felt up to this point in the process, Matt expresses his satisfaction simply and proudly, by saying, "I am very content with how my car is and how the tune came out. Car currently makes 404/374 tuned on 93." Honest, pride-filled words from a content man who has delivered on his dream.
Drilling down deeper into Matt's project, we now see that aiming for the moon may have been his first priority, but reaching and orbiting the next distant star may have been what fate had in store for his spirited creativity all along. "I've been building my car since I got it almost 5 years ago," Haubenreisser clarified. "My last version of this car has been in the works for about a year though." Asking Matt what had been modified on the vehicle may now seem like a very inexperienced and pedestrian approach to gaining insight on the subject. "Almost every part of the car has been touched, bolt on suspension mods, interior, exterior. Minus the block. It is a stock Type RA block." Haubenreisser's careful brand choices have highlighted his extreme dedication to quality. "I chose to work and go with these brands because they all have a repetition for QUALITY which is my biggest thing," Matt explained. "I don’t like cheap stuff nor rep parts. I strive to always shoot for quality parts even if it means to break the bank." An undertaking of this scope always requires a little help from knowledgeable friends and sometimes a collection of skilled professionals. "I do all the work myself with friends minus any fabrication work like some pieces I had welded by my friend Jay at Empire Fabrication NY," Matt confirmed. "Alignments and wheel work were done by a shop that I'm also a part of called Crown Speed Lab NY."
"I don’t like cheap stuff nor rep parts. I strive to always shoot for quality parts even if it means to break the bank."
Grimmspeed Front Mount Intercooler (Powder Coated OG Subaru Cherry Blossom)
Grimmspeed Intake (Powder Coated
OG Subaru Cherry Blossom)
Grimmspeed EBCS
Grimmspeed v2 GESI Downpipe
Grimmspeed 8mm TGV Spacers
Grimmspeed JB400 Turbo
Killer B Motorsport Hard Inlet
COBB 1050 Injectors
COBB Fuel Pressure Regulator
AEM 340 Fuel Pump
PLM 44mm Up Pipe
TiAL MVR 44mm External Wastegate
TiAL Q Blow Off Valve
IAG Equal Length Headers
Yellow Speed Racing Inverted Pro Coilovers
Volk Racing ZE40 Wheels, Mag Blue
Continental Extreme Contact Sport
Tires
Hawk Ceramic Brake Pads
Whiteline Front/Rear Sway Bar (Powder Coated Subaru OG Cherry Blossom Pink)
SPC Performance Toe Arms
Whiteline Rear LCA
KartBoy End Links Front/Rear
JDM S209 Draw Stiffeners
JDM STi Strut Brace
JDM Cherry Red Mirrors
JDM STi Anti Glare Mirrors
JDM Side View Camera
JDM Rear Brake Light
JDM STi Rear Splash Guards
JDM S209 Interior Trim
JDM Trunk Garnish Cherry Red
SYMS Racing Wiper Blades
Varis Arising II body kit
APR Carbon Fiber Backing Plate
Invidia Q300 Catback
OLM Pro Gurney Flap
Idoing Head Unit
AEM AFR Gauge
AEM Oil Pressure Gauge
Prova Rear View Mirror
COBB Short Throw Shifter Kit
SYMS Racing Seat Belt Pads
D I A M O N D
C L U B
i f y o u k n o w , y o u k n o w .
James Kelly, the founder and primary artist at StreeTTrendZ Metal Art in Stoughton, Massachusetts is one of those individuals that affected everyone in his orbit. As he grew, he stretched out to be an inspired car enthusiast and applied his creativity to what he saw within the engineering, design, and creativity of others.
As Kelly's website proudly proclaims on its first page, his art and creativity is about "Turning Old Car Parts Into Unique Works of Art", which is clearly confirmed and proven through the gallery of work the amazed viewer will quickly see through his online gallery. Kelly was born in Boston and spent a few years of his early life in the south west section of the city called Hyde Park. At around six years of age, Kelly's family relocated about 25 minutes further south to Stoughton, Ma, where he has spent the last 35 years of his life. Now at 41 years old, his memories of artistic development are as clear in his mind as any proud craftsman could reflect. "For as long as I can remember I have been artistic and creative." Kelly explained. "As a kid I was always drawing or building stuff. I was always known as the kid who was the artist." This is a familiar foundation for many blossoming creatives in our world. The special alchemy that would further push Kelly's life is a definite testament to what a human can accomplish if they put their unique desires into practice.
As we think back to our earlier days, before the enthusiast bug took that first bite, we can remember those times that prepared our mind for a different kind of excitement that only a special few can identify. Kelly's launching pad into loving the auto world was not that much different as his memories confirm. "I’ve liked cars as long as I can remember." Kelly said with appreciation. "I wasn’t so much “into them” as a kid, I just really found them cool," he said. "I loved my toy cars." Kelly's appreciation and excitement for those early toys and fantastical vehicles that filled his imagination with questions as a young boy began to feed his born-in creative spirit and ingenuity by the time he craved being behind the wheel of his own vehicle. "When I got my license, I started finding interest in cars and customizing cars, but it really was enhanced once the "Fast and Furious" movie was released and that whole scene went mainstream." Like any young, ambitious person, Kelly began thinking more about the possibilities behind the vehicles he was seeing, hearing, and experiencing during his first years as a driver. Again, a familiar component of every enthusiast story is the moment when they realize where they belong in this diverse world, jump on, and hold tight to enjoy their life changing ride. His desire to create and modify cars came from moments and motivations to come over the coming years.
As Kelly grew, he navigated through some life shaping events that led him to becoming a unique brand of artist. "When I got my license, I was given my dad's car, a 91 Subaru Legacy. I hated driving that thing." he explained with both humor and gratitude. "I was so embarrassed. Subaru was looked at as a joke then." His journey would begin by pouring his passion into a 1998 Dodge Stratus, which he purchased in 2001. "I went crazy with customizing that car all while attending automotive school in college where I was enrolled in the Chrysler (Jeep/Dodge) program. Later after graduating from the Chrysler program with an Associate Degree in Automotive Science at Mass Bay Community College, he was unemployed and looking to get back in the automotive game. "I got a call from a Subaru dealership seeing if I’d be interested in working there,” he said. ”A friend of mine mentioned my name when they were looking for a new tech. I had no interest and I hated Subaru. I thought they were ugly, but figured I’d work there for 2 weeks until I found another job." Kelly's destiny with the Subaru brand would be out of his control. "I ended up there for almost 14 years," he said with gratitude. "I eventually sold all my cars and got a 2004 WRX." he proclaimed with pride. “If I had to pick a brand I’m loyal to, it’s definitely Subaru," he added. "I plan on daily driving one forever."
Kelly revisited the experience he had with the 1998 Dodge Stratus by saying, "It sounds weird, but that car was highly modified." he repeated. "It had an intake, exhaust but that was as far as ‘performance’ since I have always been a show car enthusiast more than a racer," he confirmed. “That car had a full air ride suspension system, custom Gucci interior, a bunch of TVs and stereo equipment. It had a full body kit, side graphics, wing west rear touring spoiler and custom carbon fiber hood." Kelly explained. After completing a true performance modification on his 2004 Dodge SRT4 by lowering the vehicle, installing an intake, a BOV, a short shifter and various lights, his passion moved over to Subaru and his cherished 2004 WRX. "It had Full STI interior, all STI exterior body parts, Tein suspension, a Cobb tune, and a bunch of other stuff." His journey shows how he blended both his technical knowledge, ingenuity, and creative personality to gain his future artistry. "I started at Subaru in 2006. There I became dealer certified, and often helped train new younger techs." Now, years later, his life has come full circle to where he can apply his vision to unleash the next chapter as both a car lover and artist. After taking in some inspiration from others benefiting from their creative visions, Kelly proves that art is more than painting on canvas.
As his ideas and life experiences began to align, Kelly thought that he would retrieve another level of creativity that he had not tapped before. "About 10 years ago I had an idea of building stuff out of car parts," he said. "I always thought welding was cool as hell. I tried it one day after work and made an elephant. Eventually it fell apart because I didn’t know how to weld." Kelly remembers fondly. "A little after that my dog passed away, I had an idea of putting his collar on display on a metal art dog so I gave it a shot and made a really cool dog." he explained. "Then started trying to make other things and eventually anything anyone could think of." As the calendar turned over the next decade, Kelly transformed his life from creative enthusiast to enthusiast artist. "I never imagined anyone would ever buy a piece from me." he said with amazement.”Ripleys Believe it or Not purchased 4 guitars I made to display in their museums. I participated for many years at the World of Wheels in Boston, meeting car legend Gene Windfield, even selling him multiple art pieces of his own. I made pieces for Showtimes' hit show ‘Shameless.’ I’ve gotten to make trophies for some high profile clients and attend some major events in the automotive world." Kelly confirmed with pride.
After asking Kelly about the most challenging project he had ever completed, he confirmed, "Recently, I made a Bergamasco SheepDogthe hardest piece I ever did. I actually told the customer to give me about a week to think about if I even wanted to do it." he added. “It is basically a big mop. It took me a while to figure it out but I was determined to do it. As of yet, there is no piece I have never been able to not do." Kelly has a new focus to bring his artistry to the masses through television and multimedia. "I would really like to get more video media coverage. I would really love to do something on tv or some kind of show. I think that would be fun." When asked what is the main strength of importance that drives his efforts, Kelly notes, "Lastly, it would be how much my wife really helps me," he said with gratitude. "She has supported me through this since day one. If it wasn’t for her, I couldn’t do anything I do. She has been very understanding about it, even though sometimes it means long nights or days away... She really steps it up to hold down the house for our family. That alone allows me to do what I do." Truly, Kelly's story is inspiring because he took an idea and drove it home based on his pure love for creativity. That is gold to anyone. Enthusiast or not.
performance without compromise. performance without compromise.
It would be hard to believe if someone who is even partially involved in the world of car modification, aftermarket car parts, or motorsports, would say that they had never heard of Justin Grimm. This would be especially odd within the Subaru community, which is a close knit group of enthusiasts. Back in 2006, there was a young, entrepreneurial minded man who started GrimmSpeed, an organization that would sharply concentrate on providing high-performance, aftermarket parts and accessories for the Subaru WRX platform. GrimmSpeed grew quickly from that start-up garage into a much larger manufacturing and product design space which would fully unfold his dreams and purpose. Justin proudly said, "GrimmSpeed was that dream. There's no doubt about it. That company had my heart and soul...If you knew the values and the passion that GrimmSpeed had, you knew me." Before the birth of this company, Grimm had already been cultivating his passion as an enthusiast which would be the groundwork for his future role as entrepreneur and stakeholder within a quickly growing industry.
It is true that Justin's story and beginnings as an enthusiast could mirror many experiences by members of our vast community, but his choices after seeing that first car, meeting his first love, built on a very specific destiny. "When I was in college, from 2000 to 2003, Subaru launched the WRX...with a model year 2002," Grimm remembered. "And so, right when I was getting near the end of college, the hype hit. I knew the second I saw it, that it was exactly the car I was looking for...you know? When I have enough money after graduating and get a real job…”, he said. Once bitten and hopelessly dedicated, Grimm was quickly growing into more than a passionate Subaru owner. His connection with brand and platform began to transform his interest and passion for the community. "It grew so quickly for me," Grimm explained. "There was a local group called Minnesota Subaru I quickly got involved with that group and started helping to grow it at a real early stage." Those early times entrenched in Subaru culture and memorable relationships would lay the first bricks of an exciting future.
As time went forward and his interest grew deeper, Grimm began to embed himself deeper into the Subaru life and culture Digging into his first modification left behind some life lessons that he keenly remembers. "The first mod memory would have been in 2003 or early 2004," Justin recalls with fondness. "Sitting in my garage with the OEM Cat off the Down Pipe. With a chisel and a hammer, with no face mask, nothing. Pounding away, chiseling out the OEM Cat to make more power - so I didn't have to buy a new pipe," he remembered. "Now that I look back, how ridiculously dumb it was to do that. I remember there was like a fog of dust that I was breathing in for like two hours straight." Grimm regretfully explained. The spirit he cultivated and accelerated while growing the GrimmSpeed brand was all about the tools he gathered through his exposure to a tight and generous community "As a business owner, you want, especially in an enthusiast market, to become a part of the fabric of the community," he said. "We are true enthusiasts. We care about this community, not a bullshit sales job."
"As a business owner, you want, especially in an enthusiast market, to become a part of the fabric of the community."
By 2016, the pressures that come from the entrepreneurial machine began to drain his surplus of original spirit. The thought of selling his company started entering his mind. "From that moment of when I sold to the next five years, is a complete roller coaster. To the highest highs, to the lowest lows," Grimm confirmed while outwardly expressing his thoughts during a recent video posted on his newest YouTube channel. As 2019 closed, Grimm was trying to emotionally regroup after selling his company to a private equity firm. By the end of 2020, the controlling firm decided to resell the company, with Grimm, ironically being let go in the first round of firings. "To get let go was a pretty big hit for me personally and I'm still actually pretty frustrated how that went down." he said in the video. In a positive turn, a strong resolve for this incredible fall became his mantra, "There's no way this is how this story is ending," he added during the video message. Grimm quickly regained his vision, thought about his past with the lessons learned, and regained a firm grasp of a positive view of the future.
Grimm passionately exclaimed his new strategy. "I'm at a point of being done watching these... corporate take-overs try to destroy our special community we have here," he added firmly. "So, the number one thing I can do is create another company - and that's what we're doing." Embracing the same values which founded his first company, Grimm poured this new energy into launching Overtake, a new aftermarket brand that is laser focused on the enthusiast and the detailed attention that is often forgotten by the corporate alternatives. As their website proudly states, "We put our customers first...Every part we create, every product we release, is designed with precision, pride, and purpose. We’re here to support the Subaru community, to fuel the passion of the next generation." Grimm never forgot that building something meaningful exists within his chemistry. Grimm can reinforce the foundation he has carefully built for Overtake. "If you care about the community, you want to make better parts for them. That's all there is to it, " he confirmed. "A lot of companies will say, we're committed and this and that. To me, it's actually doing the things... and actually following through.” It is a primary goal of Overtake to build a unique brand, not a carbon copy with the same offerings and designs seen previously.
"We do plan on having a more diverse product offering than GrimmSpeed," Justin confirms clearly. "There were products like exterior components that... just didn't fit. Overtake offers a more diverse product line this time around." Outlining some simple examples of the unique offerings Overtake has for the serious enthusiast, Grimm explains the expansion into specific needs, like specifically matching body color to added components. "I think it was four different spray can versions of Paint...World Rally Blue, a BBS Gold, a Cherry Blossom and a PSM,” he confirmed. “We have all of the VB and VA colors in the spray can. And so we are the first ones in our niche here to offer that, “ Grimm adds. Other products like gaskets and cabin filters are both important and critical, but at first glance, may not seem like anything innovative to the inexperienced enthusiast. Grimm addresses the importance of these products, by saying, "They're really good gaskets. It's nice to be able to offer a gasket that's thicker, holds up, and truly stands the test of time." It is evident that Justin Grimm has taken an interesting and challenging ride during his entrepreneurial life within the aftermarket world. Grimm seems to be moving forward with fierce momentum and determination to add new offerings and keep his energy and positivity from swaying away his true purpose and direction.
"So again, for the future of Overtake, we're gonna have a lot more diversity in our product offering," Grimm confirmed. "From all your typical stuff including Intakes, Intercoolers, and Exhausts," he said. "Of course, we have to deal with the EPA a bunch now, and that's where we'll be spending a lot of time.
We are already starting with getting CARB certified for a lot of our products. We are gonna fully support that and try to be one of the good guys in that realm," Justin added with confidence.
"Also, we'll have some exterior components that you might not have seen from GrimmSpeed," he confirmed. "In addition, and as far as sticking with supporting the classics, or maybe somewhere in the middle, we obviously have to focus on the newest stuff first. The VB and VA WRX will be our main focus."
In a time when everyday seems like you are riding an economic rollercoaster, Grimm keeps a realistic vision front and center. "I think everybody is just feeling like it's going down a bit because it was a massive train we had been going for a long time with no downturns at all for 20 years," he said. "But, I'm excited for the future," he confidently exclaims. Grimm concludes with a bright scene for the future. "We are partnering up with any other companies, whether it be competitors, distributors, or people that put events on. We're gonna do everything we can to support the community and make it a better place."
A dedicated group of like-minded Australian motorsports enthusiasts launched Whiteline Performance in the early 1990s to fulfill their purpose of being a trusted provider of premiere, high-quality automotive components. Pursuing this purpose and serving the needs of their fellow enthusiasts by improving the overall performance on their chosen platforms has been their primary mission for over two decades. During their journey through the challenging, global automotive aftermarket, Whiteline has earned a position and impressive reputation as one of the world's leading automotive parts manufacturers with a sharp focus on innovation, technology, design, testing, and their willingness to work with those within the auto industry to constantly improve and enhance the driving experience of the average consumer all the way to the most discerning motorsports professional.
Building a reputation over a twenty year span has established Whiteline as an undisputed leader of suspension and chassis component design and manufacturing throughout the international automotive aftermarket. Their ongoing concentration on the improvement and enhancement of a vehicle's grip performance shines through their offerings to all levels of enthusiast and driver. They provide a full array of products to help the driver achieve the success they pursue. Whiteline's list of offerings include lowering springs, performance sway bars and vehicle kits, performance suspension kits, adjustable sway bar drop links, and other components designed to complement spring and damper setups. Their selection of control arms, strut mounts, roll center kits, strut bars, braces, and tower bars give the enthusiast a number of great options when modifying.
Beyond the obvious considerations of longevity and the impactful contributions their developments have had on the motorsports industry and the average consumer, Whiteline has maintained a superior level of drive to always improve, innovate, and design better solutions. They work to enhance vehicle balance, amplify the precision of steering, and bring driving performance to new heights through their products and designs. They have become well-known for engineering a line of products that are finely tuned to sharpen a vehicle's grip, increase its handling capabilities, and deliver prime performance under the most challenging of scenarios and environments. Whiteline's team has developed a methodology where technology and rigid testing has allowed them to manufacture suspension components that prove to be the strongest and lightest in the industry.
Whiteline is uniquely positioned as a provider of both suspension and chassis components that offer and solve a full range of needs by working in unison as a well-designed, tuned network of components instead of a collection of individual parts. Their products have been carefully designed, and precisely crafted to provide the best results and address the most challenging handling and/or suspension issues for a wide range of platforms whether seen on the track or at the local auto shop. Whiteline provides quality enhancement and replacement solutions for a number of Subaru platforms including the WRX, STi, BRZ, Legacy, and Forrester. Some products on this list include Whiteline's Adjustable Rear Lateral Link, their Rear Adjustable Control Arms, and their 22mm Adjustable Rear Sway Bar.
In the modern automotive industry, there is a long list of Japanese companies that function as essential components within the larger supply machine fueling the needs of today's modification driven enthusiast. Many of these companies have been manufacturing and providing quality solutions to the marketplace for decades and have built a deepening, and meaningful lineage within the Japanese car culture and in their industry as a whole. The most important point of focus regarding these organizations is their relationships with U.S. aftermarket retailers. This has become extremely valuable to the consumer and enthusiast as the modification, motorsports, and performance culture continuously expands in this country.
SYMS, which comes from 'Specialist from Yajima for Motor Sports', has been involved in the exclusive development of performance parts for Subaru vehicles since 1993. SYMS has provided a wide range of race-proven performance parts for platforms ranging from the road loving Impreza to the overland favorite Outback. SYMS started out with a passionate involvement and dedication to motorsports serving the needs of a growing group of Japanese enthusiast consumers. Eventually their direct partnerships allowed their product outreach to span the globe reaching a full range of Subaru models. The SYMS Racing Team focused on developing for motorsports like few other companies. SYMS has continued to insert and expose their innovations through this activity, it helps to solidify their impact as a major player in the Subaru aftermarket. Their Carbon Fiber RAM Air Box System, and their COX Body Damper Kit for the Subaru BRZ, along with the Air Induction Box Kit with NT Air Filter for the Subaru WRX helps this Japanese brand serve the constantly growing performance market.
Almost 44 years ago, Blitz Co., Ltd., began to establish themselves as a provider of high performance tuning parts including turbochargers, compressors, mufflers, air cleaners, meters, injection controller computers, and intercoolers. By 2010 Blitz began showcasing their track tested performance solutions internationally. Blitz would move on to launch a full aerodynamic kit designed exclusively for the Subaru BRZ called the "AERO SPEED R-Concept", and their Turbo System, a newly developed bolt-on original turbine for the same platform. The company would also shine on the track by both recording 59 seconds at Tsukuba Circuit and winning their first Grand Prix with their "BLITZ Racing Project WRX STI". In 2024, Blitz unveiled the GR86 Concept car at FUJI 86 releasing parts for the 2021 BRZ platform. Blitz provides several solutions for the dedicated enthusiast including their 6/4 Piston Big Brake Kit for the Subaru BRZ, and a Carbon Fiber Intake System and their NUR-SPEC Custom Series Axle Back Exhaust Systems for the WRX.
GReddy, the Trust Company Limited, has grown into both an innovator and outstanding contributor to the performance aftermarket since their founding in Japan in 1977. They have become well known for cat-back exhaust systems which incorporate an innovative and uniquely designed straight-through muffler. Their equally impressive bolt-on turbocharger kits helped insert this brand into many enthusiast conversations. GReddy Performance Products, the branch that manufactures turbo kits, cooling systems, exhaust systems, and miscellaneous accessories for Japanese and American cars have been developing and distributing Trust Company products throughout the United States since 1994. GReddy/Trust has been an illuminated presence on two continents and stands out as an iconic brand no matter what specific product line is featured in what capacity. The Greddy/Trust parts include the AIRINX-GT SB1GT Panel Filter and their PE-TR Catback Exhaust System for a number of Subaru platforms including the Subaru WRX, the STI, the Forester, the Crosstrek, and the Legacy.
Matsumoto Auto Parts Company started their journey simply in the Japanese automotive aftermarket in 1974. They began by quickly producing, marketing, and selling performance parts to the Japanese motorsports community, initially concentrating on the Rally racing genre. For the next five years, this company concentrated their efforts solely on product development, production, and the sale of performance automotive and rally sports parts, components, and upgrades. After following this steady course for almost 20 years, following the growing spirit for rally and other motorsports, Matsumoto's creation of Beatrush, became the most obvious pursuit for this company to undertake by building upon their reputation and commitment to craftsmanship. Their Forged Pitch Stop Mounts for the Subaru WRX or STI, the Rear Diff Mount Support Bar, or set of Engine Mounts for both the WRX or early STI provide quality products and an affordable price for the discerning modifier.
GP Sports delivers a wide selection of performance parts and accessories that can appropriately outfit the discerning enthusiast. They provide the market with an array of modification options including exhaust systems, wheels, suspension components, accessories, and stylish body kits. Some of their products include the GMASTER AO Front Lower Control Arm Set, their Rear Toe Arm Set, or the G-MASTER AO Adjustable Front Stabilizer End Link Kit. Lastly, Worksbell has been producing automotive components and has been a major designing solution for the automotive industry for decades.
They create a line of quality products including performance steering wheel components and paddle shifters for both the Japanese and international markets. Works Bell products include their RAPFIX GTC Steering Wheel Quick Release, the Regular Boss Steering Wheel Hub Kit for the Subaru WRX, STI, and BRZ, along with their SRD Multi-Information Switch Relocation Kit.
Valenti is one of the industry's premiere automotive lighting manufacturers who has been making a significant impact since coming on the scene almost twenty years ago. Their journey began by developing external lighting solutions with designs focused on LED technology. Valenti gave us the first LED tail lamp with turn signals in 2007. Two years later, they delivered the first LED high-mounted stop lamp. Between 2010 and 2014, Valenti launched the first SMD type LED bulb, the first LED-compatible turn signal relay, and the first LED bulb which proved to have an output twice as bright of conventional incandescent bulbs. In 2014, they landed the industry's first LED head bulbs. Products available to U.S enthusiasts include their ULTRA LED Tail Lights for both the Subaru WRX and STI platforms and TRAD LED Jewel Tail Lights and Jewel REVO Light LED Rear Fog Lamp for the BRZ. Valenti's focus on quality, testing, safety, and the understanding of their customer's needs has been a priority since their founding.
In the world of motorsports, Toyota put a stamp in the history books in 1957 by becoming the first Japanese car manufacturer to become involved in performance competition by entering the Round Australia Rally under their TOSCO Motorsports Division, also known as "Toyota Sports Corner". Almost 20 years in the future, Toyota decided to rebrand TOSCO as TRD, or "Toyota Racing Development”. They created a brand with a focus to initiate, promote, and enhance the development of parts and accessories for not only racing platforms, but also for Toyota's production vehicles. Toyota launched a modern aftermarket support system which enabled the marketing of performance parts for its road cars. TRD produces a wide range of performance products, including suspension components, wheels, aerodynamic enhancements, cold air intakes, exhaust systems, and brake kits. TRD products offerings include Catback Exhausts, Trunk Spoilers, Brake Kits, and a number of other components for both models and brands.
In addition to those mentioned above in detail, a few others including Zero/Sports, GP Sports, and Works Bell can share in the same spotlight. First, Zero/Sports has been functioning as a premiere Subaru specialist and original parts manufacturer since 2011 from their headquarters in Ono-machi Kakamigahara City, Japan. In concert with their established car shop, Zero Max, they offer a wide variety of original aftermarket parts, tuning components, and performance enhancements for the Subaru brand. Zero/Sports continues to provide a community of Subaru drivers a wide bandwidth of upgrade possibilities and assorted levels of tuning capabilities. Zero/Sports offers a collection of products including everything from their N1 Air Panel Filter designed for specific year Subaru WRX, STI, Forester, Crosstrek, and Legacy models, to both their 1.1 Bar Radiator Cap for the BRZ, and Oil Filler Cap for most other Subaru models.
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Direct partnerships with these companies allows the Subimods team to do the leg work for the customer while keeping prices with what these providers have set in the market. As enthusiasts search for the most affordable solutions, it is natural for the marketplace to expose some keenly positioned Japanese exporters offering an extremely low online price point. This approach quickly erases this false appeal with extreme shipping charges, taxes, and miscellaneous fees just to get the product in the hand of the enthusiast. At the end of the day, the direct connections established with these companies help American aftermarket retailers like Subimods provide the vast community of dedicated Subaru enthusiasts with quality imported goods while keeping costs low and the supply dependable.
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