Honda NSX - Back to the future
When Honda launched the NSX back in 1990 it set many a new benchmark in automotive design.
Wiring looms expert DC Electronics is working with racecar engineering specialists John Danby Racing to bring the Honda NSX back into the 21st Century of racing.
John Danby Racing had been successfully running a customer’s Lotus Elise in the Britcar Championship but was looking for something different to continue their success in Britcar in 2010.
David Cunliffe, Managing Director of DC Electronics, explains: “Starting from a clean sheet of paper, John and I worked together to design the most effective arrangement at a sensible price. The key to the final system is that it is modular, allowing additional hardware to be easily integrated into the overall design.”
The basic design includes engine control by Pectel, Ole Buhl Racing’s power management, data acquisition from MoTeC and live video transmission by Drivedata. These may not seem like the obvious choices, but when combined they give a very powerful and, more importantly, flexible system.
Provisions have been made to allow for paddleshift, ABS and electronic power steering additions when required. Wiring and weight is kept to minimum with a custom designed, 16 channel membrane switch panel that is connected to the power control module via the CAN Bus.
In addition, DC Electronics worked with John Danby Racing to specify a self monitoring system. The automatic initiation of back-up systems when required reduces the need for driver input, allowing him to concentrate on the road ahead.
The Honda NSX completed its first race in November, with guest driver Vicki Butler Henderson at the wheel. John Danby, Chief Engineer of John Danby Racing, comments: “The NSX has been an exciting development programme for us. We were encouraged by Vicki’s success at Brands Hatch, bringing the car home 2nd in class in the 90min race. John Danby Racing will continue development of the car over the winter, and the team is looking forward to a successful 2010 season.”
For more information on John Danby Racing or DC Electronics’ services please visit johndanbyracing.com or wiringlooms.com.
