The W507 journey began in the engineering division with an attempt to fit existing WP Products to the vehicle and it very quickly became evident that this was never going to be an option.
The complexity of the design and setup of the LSA powered HSV required a complete rethink from the WPP team.
“There are critical components such as the main wiring loom that without the right clearances in the header area they can be affected overtime by the high heat generated – in excess of 1000 degrees Celsius” lead engineer Andy Richardson noted.
Extensive product development began in earnest. There were numerous iterations of exhaust, header and cat setup as well as a completely revised cold air intake. The pulley upgrade is entirely unique to WPP with the final version selected after comprehensive engine dyno testing.
“When we set out to do this project we wanted to achieve an upgrade that delivers maximum excitement and great drivability” Richardson said. The final outcome is a package that is completely designed, engineered, and developed by the team at Walkinshaw.
“The torque is very linear and delivers on our goal of great drivability. Feedback from the owners centered on the refinement of the package, and a lack of harshness which some had come to expect” added Richardson.