FYI: Rywire has transformed the EK Civic from a Southern California classic into an electrifying powerhouse, merging retro aesthetics with cutting-edge technology for an exciting debut.
The Honda Civic: A Legacy Reimagined
Search "Civic" on automotive platforms like Speedhunters, and you’ll uncover a treasure trove of Honda Civic tributes. Breaking the mold of traditional Civic rebuilds, Rywire Motorsport Electronics’ Ryan Basseri has reimagined the EK Civic through electrification, while maintaining a nod to its storied past. The platform showcases over 200 unique Honda Civic stories, demonstrating the model’s enduring appeal and versatility for transformation and innovation.
Unveiling Rywire’s Electric EK Civic
At first glance, the Rywire EK Civic proudly sports a nostalgic Milano Red finish, a beloved hallmark among Honda enthusiasts. However, beneath its classic exterior, Ryan’s EK Civic brims with technological marvels. With external modifications, including Exceed Japan’s late model front lip and rear wing, and timeless Desmond Regamaster Evo wheels paired with Spoon Sports Nissin brake calipers, the car readies itself to surprise.
A Passion Project Embodied
"Honda is an integral part of Southern California’s car culture," Ryan notes, highlighting the region’s rich street racing legacy and its significant influence on the car’s design philosophy. From the iconic frames of the EK9 Civic Type R to intricate details like blue anodized brake calipers, the build represents both a homage and a leap forward in the world of Civic tuning.
The Cutting-Edge Powertrain
Rywire’s endeavor doesn’t just stop at aesthetic and nostalgia. Inside, what sets this Civic apart is a dual Tesla AC drive units configuration, with upgraded Wavetrac LSDs set on custom Hasport mounts. This audacious setup delivers a striking 600 horsepower, transforming the car into an all-wheel-drive juggernaut hidden under unassuming civic lines. Under the hood lies a clever cooling system leveraging a CSF race radiator, keeping things cool while maintaining high performance.
Channelling EV Integration with Precision
The transition to electric hasn’t merely been about power; it’s about range and practicality, too. With a Tesla battery pack skillfully integrated under the custom flooring, the car achieves a remarkable 400-mile range. Ryan emphasizes the complexity behind the deceptively simple design, noting that it often conceals the true depth of engineering expertise and innovation required.
A Seamless Integration
To control this masterpiece, Rywire employed an AEM controller suite featuring a VCU300 control unit and a Tesla inverter, all managed through a Rywire PDM for effortless functionality. The integration ensures the Civic drives smoothly, with an intuitive interface that complements its retro-modern identity.
Celebrating a Milestone with CSF Race
Alongside Rywire’s innovations, the event celebrated the 15th anniversary of CSF Race at Finish Line Auto Club. This emblematic gathering highlighted an array of modified vehicles, showcasing how passion and innovation have continually redefined industry standards over the years. Ravi Dolwani of CSF remarked on the shared history and achievements with Ryan and Rywire.
A Passionate Conclusion
The Rywire EK Civic isn’t merely a project—it’s a statement. It blends cherished history with the forefront of technology, presenting a future where classic cars can meet modern demands without sacrificing spirit. It’s this fusion of the old and new that truly breaks barriers, setting new benchmarks for what restomods in the import segment can achieve.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
