A’PEXi, a name synonymous with high-performance Japanese car parts, was established in Japan in 1992. Born from the collective expertise of Japan’s leading automotive engineers and mechanics, the company quickly rose to prominence by developing and manufacturing top-tier aftermarket exhaust systems and performance upgrade components. This dedication to quality and innovation has solidified A’PEXi’s position as a cornerstone in the import aftermarket industry for decades.
A’PEXi’s impact is clearly seen in iconic products like the N1 Muffler system. Revolutionary at its inception, the A’PEXi N1 Muffler pioneered the now-classic angled muffler design, seamlessly blending aggressive aesthetics with maximized performance gains. The N1 series was directly inspired by A’PEXi’s rigorous involvement in the demanding N1 endurance racing series, setting a benchmark for performance exhaust systems that many strive to emulate.
Furthermore, A’PEXi spearheaded advancements in high-performance electronic tuning with products like the Power FC. The Power FC was groundbreaking as one of the first complete ECU replacements, eliminating the need for piggyback systems on factory ECUs. Designed for specific engines, the Power FC simplified the tuning process, allowing enthusiasts and professionals alike to achieve optimal performance with refined precision.
From its humble beginnings as a tuning parts manufacturer, A’PEXi has evolved into an international powerhouse within the automotive industry. With over 28 years of experience, A’PEXi continues to drive innovation and set new standards in performance automotive components.
Racing Bred Performance: The A’PEXi Legacy
A’PEXi’s commitment to excellence extends far beyond the workshop and into the crucible of motorsports. Racing has always been integral to A’PEXi’s DNA, serving as the ultimate proving ground for their engineering prowess. In 1998, A’PEXi entered the prestigious SUPER GT series with a Toyota MR2 under the banner of apr (Apex Racing), their dedicated racing division. The very next year, apr clinched victory in their class, transitioning to the Toyota MR-S and forging a powerful partnership with AUTOBACS.
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| A’PEXi’s Toyota MR2 competing in SUPER GT. | The successor, Toyota MR-S, continuing the racing legacy. |
A’PEXi also made a significant impact in the world of drifting. In 2002, their Toyota Altezza, driven by the legendary Mr. Imamura (Youichi Imamura), was among the first machines to compete in the D1 Grand Prix series. This was followed by the development of an iconic drift machine: the A’PEXi Mazda RX-7 FD3S. Piloted by Mr. Imamura, the RX-7 achieved remarkable success, securing 5 podium finishes and ultimately claiming the series championship. The following year saw them achieve 2nd place in the series, further cementing their dominance. The A’PEXi RX-7 then crossed the Pacific to compete in the Formula Drift series in the US, captivating enthusiasts and showcasing the global appeal of A’PEXi engineering. This legendary RX-7 is now proudly displayed at A’PEXi USA as a symbol of their racing heritage.
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| The A’PEXi Toyota Altezza, a pioneer in D1 drifting. | The iconic A’PEXi Mazda RX-7 FD3S, a drift legend. |
Beyond circuit racing and drifting, A’PEXi also ventured into drag racing, developing a formidable Honda/Acura Integra. During testing at Sendai Drag Strip, this machine unleashed a blistering 9.006-second quarter-mile at 156.43 mph. Despite a dramatic lift and minor damage at the finish line due to track conditions and immense speed, the A’PEXi team swiftly repaired and refined the Integra within two weeks. These improvements resulted in an even more impressive best time of 8.84 seconds at 161 mph, demonstrating A’PEXi’s engineering capabilities across diverse motorsports disciplines.
Most recently, A’PEXi showcased their engineering prowess in pro-series racing with the Lexus SC430. This striking vehicle was equipped with a custom twin-turbo 4.3L V8 engine and numerous bespoke parts, pushing the boundaries of performance. The A’PEXi Lexus SC430 made a bold statement entering the race series as a brand-new contender, further exemplifying A’PEXi’s commitment to innovation and pushing the limits of automotive performance.
