143: DIY Motorsport Isn’t Easy But It’s Insanely Rewarding
No matter the stage of a build, most projects reach a point where giving up feels tempting. They demand grit and perseverance—and Karel Silha from Karel S Motorsport’s wild DTM-inspired M4 Time Attack build is no exception.We first spoke to Karel in 2022, and now he’s back to share what it really takes to shake down and test a home-built car of this caliber. Believe it or not, it all started with a toy car that Karel scanned and scaled up using CAD👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipIn this episode, we explore the engineering details behind the build. Karel explains the challenges of mounting a massive aero package capable of generating serious downforce. He highlights the practical difficulties of high-performance engineering in a garage environment.Karel also shares how he’s utilised modern tools like CAD and FEA to optimise the design. We talk through his experience testing on KW Suspension’s seven-post rig—fine-tuning the suspension for low-speed mechanical grip and managing the immense downforce at high speeds.We discuss the complexities of engine management with turbocharging and individual throttle bodies (ITBs), the importance of on track testing versus dyno calibration.Despite the technical challenges and the emotional toll, this episode is far from bleak. Karel’s journey is incredibly inspiring and he’s optimistic that 2025 will finally be the year this insane build shows its true potential. Follow Karel here:Instagram: karel_s_motorsportFacebook: Karel S MotorsportYoutube: karelsmotorsportLinks:Episode 26 with Karel: Building a Tube Frame 1100hp Time Attack WeaponEpisode 75 with Dave Higgins (Aero Dave): The Realities of Driving and Maintaining Your Own F1 Car.Timestamps:0:00 DIY Motorsport Isn’t Easy But It’s Insanely Rewarding4:12 Welcome back, can you give us a quick intro into who you are?6:06 Can you give us a quick overview of the car?12:24 Designing car modifications with serviceability in mind16:40 What engine setup do you have in the car?22:51 How do you go about the first shakedown for a car like this?26:37 How did you go about fixing the initial issues?30:12 What was going on with the wheel speed issue and why do we even need wheel speeds?34:51 Why are you not running ABS?38:15 Wheel speed issues wrapped up.42:29 Were there any other issues in the initial testing? Dry sump issues?49:40 Issues with the fixing points for the splitter and wing? 53:27 What material are you using?56:37 Can the average enthusiast get good results with FEA or do you need to be an Engineer to use it?1:01:25 Did you have any cooling issues?1:07:49 What is the height of the splitter at static ride height?1:11:14 What is a 7 post rig?1:19:44 Are you tuning the car onto bumpstomps to combat aero at high speeds?1:21:46 Where does testing go from here?127:11 How are you going about tuning your engine package? 1:35:11 Were you able to do any gear shift calibration on the dyno? 1:43:00 Will we see you at WTAK in Australia?1:46:35 Final 3 questions
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Field Report: Why Your CAD Designs Don't Work
Designing an elaborate engine block or cylinder head in CAD is one thing, but actually manufacturing that design is another challenge altogether. In this video, we talk with Gerry from Crest CNC about what it takes to turn complex billet and cast designs into realityUse the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipGerry handles CAD design at Crest CNC, creating engine blocks, cylinder heads, and the tooling and fixtures required to manufacture them efficiently. He explains how his early career as a toolmaker led him into CNC machining, CAM programming, and then full-time CAD design. During his time in the UK, he worked at JCB’s engine division, gaining critical experience in engine block and cylinder head design fundamentals.For their cylinder head development, Crest CNC work closely with third-party experts such as Cylinder Head Specialists to optimise port and combustion chamber geometry. They use traditional flow bench testing and 3D scanning to bring these designs into CAD before finalising them for manufacturing.Gerry also discusses design for manufacture considerations, often called DFM. Whether working with billet parts or cast parts, understanding machining limitations, tooling aspect ratios, taper angles, and draft requirements is essential. Design for manufacture ensures that parts are not only functional but also practical and cost-effective to produce.If you want to learn more about how advanced billet and cast engine components go from idea to finished product, or how companies like Crest CNC and Cylinder Head Specialists push high-performance design, this interview is packed with insights you can apply in your own engineering or fabrication projects.
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142: “Composites” aren’t just for high-end motorsport
“Composites” aren’t just expensive and elaborate carbon fibre parts for high-end race teams. It may be easier, more accessible, and cheaper than you think to get started in the composite game.This week on the podcast, we sit down with Keith Peden from Rodin Cars to unravel the world of composites.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipKeith shares his journey from a childhood passion for cars to becoming a composite specialist in the automotive industry, building parts to the highest level. He emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience and how collaboration between engineering and manufacturing teams is key to success.The conversation explores the properties of different composite materials and their applications in motorsport and automotive design. He discusses various aspects of composites, focusing on the differences between chopped strand mats and woven mats.He also explains resin types, why proper mixing is critical to strength, and how many factors can impact the final product. We discuss different manufacturing methods, from wet layups to prepreg and autoclaves.One of Keith’s big takeaways is that composites don’t always have to mean expensive carbon fibre. For many motorsport and automotive needs, affordable alternatives can deliver excellent results — especially for the home enthusiast.Follow Rodin Cars here: Website: rodin-cars.comInstagram: rodincarsofficialFacebook: Rodin CarsYoutube: RodinCarsTimestamps:0:00 “Composites” aren’t just for high-end motorsport4:00 How did you form an interest in cars?5:33 How do you become qualified in composite manufacturing and what’s your background?16:18 Can you give us an overview of Rodin Cars?27:44 What is your role as Composites Team Lead?31:47 What does the word composites actually mean?33:03 Is a carbon fibre part stronger in compression or tension?35:21 What is carbon fibre and why is it so good for motorsport?38:09 Carbon vs Kevlar vs Fibre glass cost variation?40:42 What is a chopped strand mat?43:05 What is a woven mat?44:44 What is resin?48:49 What does the term prepreg mean?52:55 What is an Autoclave?59:09 Other types of layup methods1:11:55 Downsides of composites parts being repaired1:13:21 How do you add threaded bosses for attachments to a composite part?1:16:24 Final 3 questions
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Field Report: A Clever Solution | 400HP 3-Cylinder G16E-GTS
The Toyota GR Yaris and GR Corolla are already cult favourites, and now they’re about to get even faster.Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipIn this interview, Ben from @artec_performance reveals the 18-month R&D journey behind their fully emissions-compliant bolt-on turbo kit for Toyota’s GR platform. This isn't a generic setup, every component is purpose-built to retain OEM fitment, support factory ECU control, and maintain legal emissions systems. That means you keep your sensors, your catalytic converter, and your conscience clean while chasing 400+ hp.You’ll hear how ARTEC engineered their own turbine housings, compressor covers, and manifold solution to suit Garrett G25 rotating assemblies, why packaging and emissions compliance required more than just off-the-shelf parts, and what makes the G16E-GTS engine one of the most exciting new tuning platforms in years.Whether you’re building a street-legal time attack car or want to keep your road car emissions-friendly while unlocking serious power, this bolt-on system is worth a closer look.
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Field Report: Is a 940kg Toyota MRS the ULTIMATE Grassroots Racer?
"The closest we've got to a mechanic is a panel beater." - Has this group of friends on a budget built something quicker and more special than many big chequebook builds ever will be?Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipMost people overlook the third-gen Toyota MR2 (MR-S), but Justin from Close Enough Racing has spent years turning his into a proper grassroots weapon.From a modest 1ZZ track car to a 450kW turbocharged 2ZZ build with APR widebody aero, a Jubu Racing close-ratio gearbox, and Porsche brakes, this is a fully developed MRS that competes on the world stage at World Time Attack Challenge.You’ll learn how Justin and his mates handled the powertrain setup, aero evolution, and suspension development while working around the MR chassis’ limitations and strengths.The car features a Gen 2 Garrett G35-82R turbo, factory-based poly bushed mounts, and a 3582R-based turbo system pushing 35 psi through a built 2ZZ engine. The team worked with brands like CMS Performance for tuning, APR for aero, Shockworks for suspension development, and even adapted Porsche Boxster calipers using custom dogbones.Despite not being professional engineers, this group of friends put together a car that can compete with far more expensive, professionally built competition.If you’re building your own track car and want to see how to combine smart part selection, testing, and a bit of ingenuity to go fast on a budget, this one’s worth your time.#highperformanceacademy #buildtunedrive #closeenoughracing #aprperformance #shockworks #cmsperformance #juburacing #toyotamrs #mr2build #worldtimeattack #2zzge #grassrootsracing #aprperformance #cerbuild #wtac #carmods #motorsport
High Performance Academy Presents: Tuned In. A podcast interviewing influential people from around the world at the top of their respected fields. Covering topics such as Tuning, CAD, Performance Engine Building, Automotive/Motorsport Wiring, Data Analysis, Driver Coaching/Training, Motorsport Fabrication and Car Setup.
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