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By
EWAN KENNEDY
23 January 2012
Tom Walkinshaw may no longer be with us, but his name lives on in
Holden lovers’ memories. The Scottish racing car driver and
entrepreneur is best known for the hot Commodores that carry his
name. In 1988 Tom Walkinshaw was asked by Holden to produce a
high-performance version of the VL Commodore after the company had
a major falling out with Peter Brock.
These days Walkinshaw Performance is still in the
high-performance scene in this country. It has just announced a
range of interesting new accessories for a number of Holden
vehicles, not just Commodores; Barina, Captiva and Cruze can also
receive the Walkinshaw treatment.
Walkinshaw Performance general manager, Tony Harris, explains.
"The decision to enter this market is based on two elements;
the changing car buyers’ market and the growing demand for
products to enhance these vehicles. Our relationship with
Irmscher in Europe means we are able to bring an extensive range
of products to the Australian market."
The initial release of products includes lowering kits for all
four models, as well as alloy wheels, spoilers, radiator grilles,
side steps and nudge bars.
Tony Harris says, "Soon we will be ready to
announce our first performance upgrades for the new range - and it
won't be what people are expecting! We are acutely aware of the
need for performance at a price … so watch this space!"
Walkinshaw Performance was established in 2006 as an aftermarket
tuning operation. Its stated aim is to bring a new level of
professionalism, to an industry that sometimes looks a bit
‘backyard’ in its outlook. WP prides itself on producing
modifications and enhancement at ‘original equipment’ standard
and above.
Primarily focused on modifying and upgrading Holden and Holden
Special Vehicles products, Walkinshaw Performance announced in
2010 that it was introducing a driveline warranty equivalent to
the balance of the new car warranty.
The European brand Irmscher has been around for over 43 years and
helps car owners add an individual touch to production vehicles.
Irmscher develops specially coordinated extras ranging from ground
effects packages and alloy wheels through chassis components,
engine and exhaust systems up to complete interior trims.
© Copyright
Marque Publishing Company
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