HKS ADVANCED HERITAGE

(Main Text)

In the HKS stock garage, where battle-scarred works cars are housed, there is a solitary white body sitting in a corner. The distinctive bulge of the rear fender indicates that it is an R32 Skyline GT-R. It turns out this is the legendary ZERO-R, currently undergoing restoration.

Great inventors share a common trait: they intensely dislike looking back. They believe it's better to bring the swirling ideas in their minds to life rather than waste time reflecting on the past. As pioneers in the tuning industry, HKS naturally exhibits this tendency. They are always at the forefront, opening doors and tackling new challenges. Therefore, the sudden appearance of the R32 GT-R seemed somewhat out of place.

Today, HKS focuses on contemporary models like the GR86, and their flagship is undoubtedly the R35 GT-R, which made the reality of surpassing 1000 horsepower. However, HKS's history is akin to a history book of Japanese tuning culture. They understand that tuning trends are shaped not only by "what's current in car manufacturing" but also by the "passionate voices of customers from around the world."

As pioneers involved with the RB26 throughout its active years, HKS holds an advantage when it comes to "what's next." For HKS, the second-generation GT-R and the RB26 are invaluable heritage. Yet, tuning methods must evolve with the times, incorporating new values that even cover modern environmental performance. HKS's sincere engagement with discontinued cars has led to the creation of "HKS Advanced Heritage," an ever-evolving legacy.

Launched at the 2021 Tokyo Auto Salon, the first product in the HKS Advanced Heritage line was naturally for the RB26. It was a carbon fiber intake system equipped with an induction box, just like the original. Lighter than the stock part and with lower pressure loss, this kit embodies "the essence of modern HKS," grounded in highly accurate measurements. Airflow through the intake, once difficult to measure, is now precisely analyzed and utilized in product development. The potential of the intake system, proven by chassis dynamometer testing, surpasses that of the legendary HKS Power Flow, showcasing the latest HKS technology. Additionally, the research and development of the pre-chamber system, also used in modern F1 cars, targets an impressive fuel efficiency of 20 km/l (WLTC), approximately three times the original figure, reflecting HKS's innovative approach even in fuel economy.

Moreover, HKS's continued serious engagement with the RB26 is evident in the six types of complete engines they offer. The latest design in this lineup is the RB30, an expanded displacement unit. The unique aspect of this complete engine is its 3-liter displacement. While displacement increases typically involve bore enlargement or stroke extension, the RB30 uses a fully counterweighted crankshaft and custom I-section connecting rods to extend the stroke without changing the cylinder block height. This increase in displacement is achieved with newly developed two-piece pistons, so thin the piston pin intrudes into the crown. Additionally, the V-cam and valve system, meticulously refined by HKS, enable a high-revving 9000 rpm (compared to the stock 7600). The latest turbocharger technology naturally translates into performance gains. With ongoing demand, there seems to be endless potential for progress.

Many enthusiasts likely view the second-generation Skyline GT-R as a lifelong partner in car enjoyment, and this number will only grow. Maintaining the original condition is crucial, but continual evolution and sustained allure also keep people engaged.

In the early 90s, when the second-generation Skyline GT-R peaked in popularity, HKS introduced the ZERO-R, a complete car far surpassing the stock model, and competed in Group A races with their in-house tuned engine, challenging the works units. No tuning manufacturer has had as deep a relationship with the GT-R as HKS. They see a clear future because of this deep connection.

HKS is once again resurrecting the second-generation GT-R as a complete machine and continually evolving the new generation of the complete RB26. Having perfected the second-generation GT-R once, HKS continues to engage with it today. According to the development team, the material may be old, but they know its strengths and weaknesses intimately. They know where to enhance power, have mastered the peak, and fully understand the impact of the latest technology. This approach, combining thorough offensives with a comprehensive view of the scene, exemplifies HKS’s style. With the expanding global fan base and HKS's evolving craftsmanship backing the RB26, the future is even more exciting. Witnessing the core of HKS transforms this anticipation into reality. One should savor the taste of the new generation RB26 crafted by this seasoned brand.

(Catchphrases)

P080
"As pioneers who have mastered RB26 tuning, we have an advantage for the 'next step.'"

P082
"The way to evolve an older generation. It feels like there's still much depth to explore."

(Captions)

P080
"Not defense, but offense. That is the HKS spirit."
The pre-chamber system on the upper left, like the induction box-equipped carbon fiber intake system, is a key component of Advanced Heritage's fuel efficiency, aiming for a fuel efficiency about three times that of the new car using a system also prevalent in modern F1 cars. The two-piece piston on the lower left is already a product for the RB30.

P082
"An evolving complete engine."
In the engine bay of the black BNR34, used for many years as a test car by HKS, sits the highest unit in the RB26 complete engine lineup, the RB30. The large HKS-Garrett turbocharger catches the eye, and although it boasts a massive 850 hp, it is realized as a modern, high-efficiency spec thanks to HKS's accumulated know-how. HKS continues to dedicate itself to evolving the RB26 in all its products, including Advanced Heritage.

P083
"ZERO-R, the origin and the ultimate."
The ZERO-R, a complete car indispensable to discussing the relationship between HKS and BNR32. At the very moment the BNR32 was launched and amazed the world with its performance, HKS had already started developing the ultimate road-going car. Besides thoroughly working on the engine, suspension, and aero, what’s particularly surprising is the fact that the fuel tank was relocated within the wheelbase. This foundation justifies HKS’s claim of a complete car rather than a partially modified vehicle. Targeting comfortable driving at 250 km/h without strain, development stages included the Autobahn and Nürburgring, already incorporating the modern flat-bottom concept. Only seven original ZERO-Rs exist worldwide, making it a milestone complete car when discussing the relationship between HKS and RB26.