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Platinum VIP CEO Kennedy Nguyen Trusts AEM for His Loyal and Prominent Customers

Jul 29, 2013

Kennedy Nguyen and Platinum VIP transformed this Lexus IS250 into a one-of-a-kind creation.

Renowned American designer Charles Eames said "There is no line where art stops and life begins." Eames made major contributions to modern architecture and furniture and he understood that life is undeniably art, and that the things we choose to fill our lives with are the expression of that creative process. Yet another American designer, Chris Bangle has a philosophy that car design is one of the most ubiquitous, yet taken for granted art forms today. And Kennedy Nguyen, the hands-on visionary behind Platinum VIP in Irwindale, California, is leading the frontlines of that artistic, automotive void and without fail - he's redefining and elevating it to its rightful stature.

Kennedy Nguyen and Platinum VIP's attention to the slightest detail made this Lexus LS460 owner a lifetime Nguyen fan.

"I see car modification as a mix between beauty and brains because you have to have the best of both worlds," Nguyen states. "The car's appearance (body kit, paint, and wheels) need to look good while the mechanical aspects (engine, drivetrain, brakes, and suspension) have to perform well. If you are lacking one or the other then it is not a complete car.

Art, like life, demands balance and Nguyen gets that. "I started modifying cars at the age of 14. I hung out with older kids who had Supra's, Celica's, and MR2's and I would fix and install the aftermarket parts they bought. So basically, I've been modifying cars for 25 years. And I work on every single aspect of a car that comes through my shop - the paint, custom bodywork, suspension install, and wheels."

Kennedy Nguyen and Platinum VIP Chrysler 300c with attitude.

Nguyen opened his first shop, Premier Autoworks, in La Habra in 1996. On the forefront of the import subculture, word spread quickly about Nguyen and his deep passion for cars, his obsession for details, his dedication to craftsmanship and his relentless commitment to luxury. So, in 2007 he moved it on up to his current location in Los Angeles County, rebranding himself as Platinum VIP, and in the processes he comfortably donned the crown as the industry's modification benchmark. VIP also offers a complete collision center and "Auto Spa" featuring I-Car and ASE certified collision repair, and a certified PPG and a DuPont refinish center. Over the years Platinum VIP's exemplary dedication to their craft has seen them honored with a numerous automotive accolades, including in 2008 when Ford chose to display Nguyen's creation of the Flex at the SEMA show in Las Vegas.

The Platinum VIP style, according to owner Kennedy Nguyen, is primarily about modifying luxury sedans.

"The VIP style is mainly modifying luxury sedans. It derived from Japan and we in the states are just adding to that style with our own taste," Nguyen explains. "My first VIP car is my first Gen (Lexus) GS300, aka Aristo and in the 90's no one was fixing up luxury sedans, but rather only sport compact cars like Integra's and Civics. Even in the 2000's, I purchased the third Gen LS, and I was still one of the very few that modified that particular car VIP style here in the states."

Nguyen's creative process is wide open to all possibilities, rather than contracted and myopic, so he welcomes customers that have their own vehicular vision, as well as those that allow him to do his thing. "It's good working with both kinds of customers," he confirms. "Those that come with a vision already did their homework, so it ultimately ends up looking nice. And it's an honor when customers leave the modifying up to me, because it means they trust my vision."

Platinum VIP moved to Irwindale in Los Angeles County, California in 2007.

Nguyen is also business savvy and pragmatic, so he understands that his creations are ultimately only as refined as the palate of products utilized to produce them. Platinum VIP therefore only uses the best. Recently Nguyen invited AEM to stage a product photo shot at his facility.

"It was a privilege to have you guys use our facility for the photo shoot," he remarked. "It speaks volumes to customers that a quality brand like AEM is associated with a quality shop like Platinum VIP. I use AEM products because they have a history of making premium products. I only sell the highest quality products to my loyal customers so going with AEM is a no brainer."

Use the AEM Product Search to find AEM performance products for your vehicle. To find an AEM dealer near you, use Search for AEM Dealer or simply visit AEMintakes.com.

AEM Articles about Lexus IS250, Chrysler 300C

Simple Power Add-on for Lexus IS250 2.5L and IS350 3.5L with AEM Cold Air Intakes
Advanced ETI Air Intake System Available for 2006-2013 Lexus IS250
2011-2013 Chrysler 300C Models Benefit from AEM Drop-in Air Filter

2012-2015 Honda Civic Si & 2012 Acura ILX Models Get Performance with AEM's Cold Air Intake

Jul 1, 2013

Engine Bay with AEM Air Intake 21-716C

The Honda Civic is known as a reliable, inexpensive and easy to modify car. It is for these reasons that the Honda Civic has become one of the most popular cars on the market today. Most recently Honda decided to spice things up a bit by offering a more powerful version with the Civic Si. The Civic Si is the Civic to get if you are serious about horsepower and looking for a vehicle to modify without spending a lot of money. Due to the popularity of the Honda Civic Si, there are a number of aftermarket options available to do almost anything you can imagine.

AEM Cold Air Intake 21-716P for Honda Civic Si & Acura ILX with Polished Finish

One available power adding option is to add an AEM cold air intake. AEM's 21-716P and 21-716C cold air intake systems fit 2012-2015 Honda Civic Si and 2013 Acura ILX models with 2.4 liter engines. These cold air intake systems are designed to increase horsepower and performance while giving your Civic Si or Acura ILX a more customized performance-based look. These cold air intakes come in two different finishes. The 21-716P intake has a vacuum metalized â€œmirror typeâ€ finish and the 21-716C intake has a gunmetal gray powder-coated finish. Both tube finishes are durable to keep that great look for the life of the vehicle. Once the 21-716P or the 21-716C cold air intake system is installed, you can experience an estimated gain of 8 horsepower at 7000 RPM and 8 feet-pounds of torque at 3800 RPM. Along with the power boost the intake gives the Civic Si and Acura ILX a deep intake sound.

Both cold air intake systems come with all of the necessary components needed for installation including a three piece air intake tube, connection hoses, a large AEM Dryflow Synthetic air filter, replacement crank case vent hose, replacement coolant recovery hose and all of the nuts, bolts and hose clamps needed. The upper air intake tube has a welded-on mass air sensor adapter and crank case vent fitting. The mass air sensor adapter and tube have been engineered to keep the stock computer and sensor happy and not set a check engine light. All 3 of the main connection hoses are made from high-quality silicone which is also designed to last for the life of the vehicle.

AEM Air Intake for Honda Civic Si & Acura ILX

Dyno Chart for Honda Civic Si & Acura ILX Air Intake 21-716P

Increased Horsepower
Reusable Dryflow Synthetic Air Filter
Excellent Air Filtration
Cold Air Intake Design
High Quality Components
Lifetime Limited Warranty

When it comes to cold air, the 21-716P and 21-716C cold air intake systems have it in the bag. Both air intakes place the AEM high flow air filter down in the front bumper. By placing the air filter out of the heated engine bay cooler outside air can be brought into the engine for added power and torque.

Honda Civic Si & Acura ILX AEM Cold Air Intake 21-716C with Gunmetal Gray Finish

The 21-716P and 21-716C cold air intake systems come with AEM's 21-203DOSK Dryflow synthetic air filter. AEM Dryflow air filters have a low restriction design that provides great engine protection and a long service life. When it is time to clean the air filter, use AEM synthetic air filter cleaner. It is designed to help loosen and dissolve air filter dirt and road grime so it can be easily and quickly rinsed away with water. Once the air filter is dry, it can be reinstalled. Unlike other washable and reusable air filters, AEM Dryflow air filters do not use oil, so there is no chance of over-oiling your filter thus taking the guesswork out of servicing your AEM air filter.

Due to the design and high quality components, this air intake system and air filter will be the last air intake you will need as it is backed by AEM's Lifetime Limited Warranty.

AEM's 21-716P and 21-716C cold air intake systems will fit the following:
2015 HONDA CIVIC SI 2.4L
2014 HONDA CIVIC SI 2.4L
2014 ACURA ILX 2.4L
2013 HONDA CIVIC SI 2.4L
2013 ACURA ILX 2.4L
2012 HONDA CIVIC SI 2.4L

AEM cold air intakes for Honda Civic Si models can be found on the Honda Civic Si Cold Air Intakes page. AEM performance products for other vehicles can be found using the AEM Product Search. To find an AEM dealer near you, use Search for AEM Dealer or simply visit AEMintakes.com.

AEM Articles about the Honda Civic

AEM Cold Air Intake System Increases Horsepower of 2006 to 2011 Honda Civic Si
2012 Honda Civic 1.8L Models Gain Horsepower and Acceleration with AEM Cold Air Intake System
2006-2011 Honda Civic 1.8L Get 4 Horsepower with AEM's 21-686C & 21-686P Cold Air Intakes

Tien Wong's Performance Modified 2011 Lancer Evolution X is Amazing Daily Driver

Jun 25, 2013

Tien Wong's 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (EVO) X

Tien Wong had a sweet tooth for the Lancer Evolution (EVO) X long before he finally broke down and made the purchase. Upon choosing the 2011 model, there were no doubts of Wong's intentions. Although the car would prove adequate for most consumers, Wong has always been the kind of fella who enjoys making a few modifications here and there.

"I can't help modifying everything I own," explained the car owner. So I've pretty much modified every vehicle I've had. This is my seventh car. All of the previous ones have been modified in some way. So I would say that I know my way around cars, but am no expert by any means."

Performance modified Mitsubishi Evolution (EVO) X

"I've wanted an EVO since I saw the VII. I originally planned to purchase a IX, but since the X was already out and I was in the market for a new car, I decided to pull the trigger on it. I decided that I had to buy a car that would depreciate the least amount during the time I would own it."

One would suspect that those who enjoy making modifications to their vehicles must first have an inspiration. Well, Wong is no different. He was most interested in a car that would prove functional.

Not a follower of the "Super Stance movement," Wong opted to go in a different direction. "I set up the car as a daily, that could handle everything I could throw at it. I set it up in a way that, basically, you don't have to slow down for railroad tracks. You could speed up and not bottom out when you landed.

This performance Evo X was set up as a daily driver that wouldn't have to slow down for railroad tracks and could speed up without bottoming out when you landed.

"Low enough to look nice, but still able to make it up driveways," he continued. "Since it was an EVO, it wasn't exactly a comfortable car to begin with. So I decided to go all out, yet still retain a sleeper look to it. I rarely get glances from cops, because the exhaust isn't particularly loud. In the end, I molded it to how I wanted it to be - for my own enjoyment."

As the build came to fruition, Wong composed several modifications that would lend to what he considered the perfect EVO. Focusing on esthetics, the car owner turned to OEM for a Aero Kit front lip, and EVO X RS fog delete kit. Wong also opted to attach a custom front bumper quick release kit.

Custom Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X owned by Tien Wong

Eager to improve the suspension, the car owner embarked upon several more modifications. In fact, he opted to install a Cusco rear sway bar and went with Hotchkis for a front sway bar. These modifications would likely have a positive effect on the overall ride. However, he also installed a GTSpec rear strut bar and an AEM strut bar to the front.

Prior to crawling under the hood, Wong had a few more modifications in mind. After a TWM Short-shifter + shifter cage replacement, he went with Underhood shifter bushings and a M1 Abrams Shift knob, also manufactured by TWM.

Eager to improve the overall look of the interior, Wong installed Genuine Alcantara shift boot, an armrest cover and an ebrake handle cover, all three produced by Redline goods. After installing a Custom black headliner and Alcantara A/B/C pillars, he was finally ready to divert his attention to the engine compartment.

Bolting on AMS motor mounts, he moved on to the fuel system. A DW 65-c fuel pump and RC 1200cc injectors would provide his build with dependability and enhanced performance.

Mitsubishi Evo X with AEM front strut bar, AEM intercooler and AEM performance air intake system

Acutely aware that quality was of utmost importance, he was quick to choose several AEM products that would enhance his cars capabilities. In fact, Wong considered the AEM intake as an essential component of the modification. He also installed an AEM intercooler and upper and lower intercooler pipes. Last but not least, he chose an AEM Failsafe/Uego Gauge.

"I went with the failsafe gauge, because AEM is the only one I know of who has two gauges in one. I wanted to minimize the number of gauges I had," explained Wong. "I know for a fact that AEM has been in the business for a long time and they put a lot of thought and engineering into the products they produce. They won't release a product quickly just to gain market share, but instead, focus on quality."

Recalling previous builds, Wong continued, "My first AEM product would be an intake I had installed back on my Mazda-speed-3.

Although Wong's Lancer Evoliution X has yet to be featured in any publications, one can only suspect that it will eventually earn notoriety. And the car owner gave no indication the project has reached completion. In reference to future plans, Tien Wong said, I plan on getting some new tires and getting the car corner balanced." In conclusion he ensured, "I plan on taking it to the track."

Use the AEM Product Search to find AEM performance products for your vehicle. To find an AEM dealer near you, use Search for AEM Dealer or simply visit AEMintakes.com.

AEM Articles about Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (EVO)

2009 Mitsubishi EVO X Lancer Owned by Peter Chaney Was Featured at 2011 SEMA Show
AEM Performance Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Strut Bar
AEM Releases Powerful and Stylish Mistubishi Lancer Evolution X Intercooler System

AEM's David Waterworth In 1st Place After 2 Rounds of 2013 British Drift Championship

Jun 15, 2013

David Waterworth's Super Pro car has the most photographed engine compartment since his 2012 rookie season.

"I was at a local track in 2004 and it was my first experience with a rear wheel drive car, as I started to drive faster and faster I noticed that the car had a tendency to slide out, to which I found I could actually control it." That was Scottish hero, David Waterworth's unwitting introduction to drifting. "I worked on this, perfecting my driving style, and that got to a point I thought I would see if anything was happening in the motorsport scene like this."

It wouldn't be overstating matters to refer to Waterworth as drifting's equivalent of "The Natural." Here's a guy that simply enjoyed stomping the throttle and then blissfully indulging himself with controlling the ensuing chaos. "It just so happened that there was a drift license/competition day at Silverstone," Waterworth continues. "I took part and actually acquired a professional license before 12.00pm, so we went for the bigger license (Super Pro), and I acquired this also in the same day, which I was later told was unheard of before."

Waterworth earned his first Super Pro class podium in round 1 at Lydden Hill.

Last season was Waterworth's first year of competition in the British Drift Championship, driving a brand new kind of car which hadn't been tested. In the first round of six, Waterworth and his team missed qualifying by two points. "And in our sixth and final round we acquired damage from a spinning lead car, that put us out of the race, but even with this we actually finished the season in twelfth position out of thirty two Super-pro drivers, and in a chassis and conversion," Waterworth explains.

One of the most talked about drivers in the BDC also drives the most ogled and most highly photographed engine compartments. The AEM sponsored driver combined his two favorite cars to create the ultimate drifter conversion, and added credence to the cliché that there's no replacement for displacement.

After the first two rounds, Waterworth is in 1st place overall in the BDC.

"Our car is the Nissan Silvia s15 platform, 1999 chassis, JDM Import. The Viper engine (8L V10) is from the dream car I hopefully one day, will actually own. I've loved the Dodge Viper car since before I could drive. It's the shear presence of the car and the fact it has a lorry engine to power it. Also, I guess the fact that it's regarded as one of the most dangerous cars to drive, which to me, makes it all the more appealing for the challenge. But unfortunately the Dodge Vipers costs are way beyond what I can afford, so the next option was this engine that was available here in the U.K. at a good price. And without any knowledge available of any swap like this being done, I threw caution to the wind, and with only one dream, I went ahead and started building what is now know as the Viper s15. Which still is the only competition drift car conversion on the track to this day."

Europe's most competitive drift championship the 2013 British Drift Championship started their season in England at Lydden Hill with Waterworth earning his first Super Pro Class podium. "Starting out on the podium is an awesome achievement for me and the team, as we worked so hard last year to make something unique in its design and engine that hadn't been done with a drift car before.

For round 2, and the first time in BDC history, the series visited the Pembrey circuit, located in South Wales just outside the village of Pembrey.

"The fan turnout was really good, there were spectators lined up all around the judged sections of the track. Our practice runs were a struggle, as it was a new track for me and most drivers, but I changed onto a different brand of tires for qualifying and this helped to improve grip and control of the car through the course, giving me a 2nd place qualification result."

"Then we went straight into the top 32 twin battles, where I progressed through many very exciting and technical battles to take me to the top 4. Unfortunately because of a few adjustment errors, I remained in 4th place and narrowly missed getting another podium finish. I do hope we can continue the success, but if I can get on podium again, I have found that consistency is the key to drifting championships. We will have to see how things turn out as there are some truly excellent teams and drivers in this championship."

Demonstrating that consistency is indeed the key to clinching titles, with his 3rd place at Lydden Hill, and fourth at Pembrey, Waterworth currently holds 1st place in the overall Super Pro standings.

"Round 3 will take place at Teesside Autodrome in Middlesborough on July 6th and 7th," Waterworth adds. "I have been to this track before, and with the changes that we plan to make to the car, we hope this will give us the advantage to be back on the podium.

Use the AEM Product Search to find AEM performance products for your vehicle. To find an AEM dealer near you, use Search for AEM Dealer or simply visit AEMintakes.com.

AEM Articles about Drift Championship

AEM’s Chris Forsberg Finishes 3rd in Round One of 2013 Formula Drift Championship
AEM's Dillon Van Way Starts 2013 Rally America National Drift Championship with a 2nd at Sno*Drift Rally
Fredrick Aasbo from the 2011 Formula Drift Championship World Finals
Chris Forsberg from the 2011 Formula Drift Championship World Finals

2012-2015 Jeep Wrangler JK Models Get Estimated 14 More Horsepower with AEM Air Intake System

Jun 7, 2013

Engine Bay with AEM Jeep Wrangler Air Intake 21-8316DS

The Jeep Wrangler has been a long time favorite among off-road enthusiasts worldwide. The current JK platform debuted in 2007 and has received much praise in the 4X4 community. For the 2012 model year, the Jeep Wrangler JK received a new 3.6-liter Pentastar VVT V6 engine.

AEM Cold Air Intake 21-8316DS for Jeep Wrangler

The new 3.6L Pentastar V6 is rated at 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. These are impressive numbers for the stock configuration. However, at AEM, we engineer our air intakes to outperform and part number 21-8316DS for the 2012 to 2013 Jeep Wrangler 3.6L lives up to that motto. Our sealed airbox intake system added outstanding gains from 4000 to 5500 RPM culminating in peak gains at an estimated 14 horsepower at 5,750 RPM and an additional 13 lb-ft of torque at 5,550 RPM. The increase in performance offered by part number 21-8316DS can prove useful in a variety of situations, whether it's merging onto a highway, towing a trailer, or off course rock climbing in your Jeep Wrangler.

AEM Air Intake for Jeep Wrangler

Dyno Chart for Jeep Wrangler Air Intake 21-8316DS

Increased Horsepower
Excellent Air Filtration
Reusable Dryflow Synthetic Air Filter
Sealed Air Box
Includes AEM Filter Minder^® Gauge
Lifetime Limited Warranty

When AEM engineers set out to build a 2012 to 2013 Wrangler JK intake system they kept the needs of hardcore off-road enthusiasts in mind. AEM engineers used a sealed airbox design to retain the stock air inlet so that water intrusion characteristics of the Wrangler JK remain as designed by the factory. Wrangler JK owners can feel confident when crossing water or mud. Another advantage is that AEM part number 21-8316DS is compatible with the various snorkel systems already available in the aftermarket community.

AEM Cold Air Intake 21-8316DS for Jeep Wrangler

Protected inside the sealed airbox of AEM intake system, the 21-2147D-HK is an oversized AEM Dryflow^™ synthetic washable air filter for outstanding airflow, filtration, and performance while allowing easy oil-free cleaning. Incorporated into the airbox design is an AEM Filter Minder^® Gauge, which helps Wrangler owners easily determine whether or not it is time to clean their AEM Dryflow^™ Air Filter. AEM Dryflow^™ Air Filters for intake systems can go up to 100,000 miles before cleaning is necessary depending on driving conditions.

Installation of AEM's Sealed Airbox Air Intake system for 2012 to 2013 Jeep Wrangler JK models with 3.6 liter engines is simple and straightforward. It requires no cutting and can be installed with common tools. Part number 21-8316DS fits in the engine compartment like an OEM component.

Extensive durability testing of part number 21-8316DS gives AEM the confidence to offer a lifetime limited warranty. AEM warrants that its air intake systems and Dryflow^™ air filters will last for the life of your vehicle. Wrangler JK owners can feel confident that an AEM Air Intake System will withstand the rugged use Jeeps are known for.

AEM cold air intakes for Jeep Wrangler models can be found on the Jeep Wrangler Cold Air Intakes page. AEM performance products for other vehicles can be found using the AEM Product Search. To find an AEM dealer near you, use Search for AEM Dealer or simply visit AEMintakes.com.

AEM Articles about Jeep Wranglers

Jeep Wrangler V6 Models Benefit with AEM Dryflow Washable Air Filter
AEM Reusable Jeep Wrangler Performance Air Filter Designed for Power and Engine Protection

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