3/19/2008
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Engines That Impact the Compact Performance Market
From SEMA eNews –
SEMA's research department recently highlighted some of the new-vehicle releases and model updates slated to be available to consumers within the next few months. The emphasis of the report was on changes within the compact-performance segment. These are models
that specialty-equipment manufacturers should become familiar with.
While their potential to change trends is unknown, their influence is
not entirely unpredictable. Basic design principles and iconic
recognition remain the same. Affordable economy cars, sports cars and
bang-for-the-buck offerings keep the formula strikingly intact. The SEMA eNews report outlines the current marketplace of vehicles that are
available now with a focus on specific engines.
The report compiles data outlining the production and availability of engines that will be
offered on popular compact performance models. These typically include
four- and six-cylinder types rated under 3.0L. Some exceptions exist,
but these represent the most common engines on the market for this
segment. Along with basic specs, the table below includes volumes
produced in 2006 and 2007 to help SEMA members gauge the size of the
market. We have also listed related vehicles that share similar
versions of the base unit.
When
determining the potential market for engine parts, keep in mind that
unit volume can be misleading. High-volume models do not necessarily
indicate demand for performance products. Conversely,
limited-production models (including “halo” vehicles) should not
discourage development as they tend to have higher demand per unit due
to their performance.
The late-model Subaru Legacy, for example, had considerable
presence at the 2008 Tokyo Auto Salon with tuning companies displaying
new products on this “fresh canvas” (previously rare for modifying).
The Legacy, Forrester and popular Impreza share engine components and
can be modified in similar forms. Research and development costs could
be minimal if identical products can be used across multiple vehicles
or on global platforms.
Likewise, high-volume engines, such as the Honda K24A (I4), BMW N52
(I6) and General Motors LE5 (I4) are being produced in large
quantities. Some cars might not possess the desirability of a Toyota
Supra or Nissan Skyline GT-R, but they do have market potential solely
based on their availability.
From the same manufacturers, the Toyota Camry and Nissan Maxima are
more common and customized in greater amounts. The ratio of stock
versus modified Camrys and Maximas is lower than their desirable
counterparts, but they are more frequent. Additionally, the parts bins
used in these types of cars are regularly sourced for multiple models,
and specialty-equipment manufacturers can benefit from OEM economies of
scale.
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