In modern vehicles, small computers control and monitor the engine. This computer, the so-called control device, more commonly known as the electronic control unit (ECU), is connected to the engine with cables and plugs.

The ECU receives analogue and digital signals and then calculates control commands for ignition, injection, emission control and others by reading values from a multitude of sensors within the engine bay, interpreting the data using multidimensional performance maps (called lookup tables), and adjusting the engine actuators accordingly.
 
Of course, sometimes we feel that there is that need for speed, as well as more power and more torque. So how do we achieve the needed adrenaline boost?

Chip tuning

Chip tuning refers to changing or modifying an erasable programmable read only memory chip in a vehicle's ECU to achieve superior performance, in terms of more power, more torque with cleaner emissions, or better fuel efficiency.

Chip tuning via additional control device

For chip tuning via an additional control device, either the driver or a garage installs an additional electronic control device that is connected to the engine and the actual ECU. There are no constructional modifications of the engine or the ECU.

The operation is also really simple - the electronics of the additional device modifies the engine control in real time. The performance map is then optimised to create a significant and directly noticeable power improvement. With more power, fuel consumption can be maintained as there is now a lesser need to drive with a heavier foot.

With this kind of chip tuning, the engine protection programme remains unchanged. There’s also no risk of overloading other engine components. The original software of the vehicle also remains unchanged and if a top speed limitation (V-Max) is determined for your vehicle, it'll remain.


RaceChip

RaceChip has been working on vehicle tuning since its establishment in 1994 with the aim of providing the ultimate driving pleasure to its customers.

RaceChip chiptuning is designed to enable a do-it-yourself (DIY) installation in most cases. The RaceChip module only needs to be connected with a simple plug and play system to the engine and the engine control device.

With RaceChip chiptuning, consumers can individually adjust the performance increase of the engine to their road behaviour if they want to deviate from the optimised basic settings for their vehicle. Consumers are able to adjust 'maximum performance', 'fuel saving eco-tuning' or an expedient mixture of both.

The RaceChip module can be removed and reused when consumers intend to change their vehicle. When subjected to inspection or regular maintenance under warranty, RaceChip chiptuning cannot be traced as no logs have been created in the ECU.

RaceChip Ultimate

RaceChip Ultimate is the latest development in RaceChip's arsenal. Equipped with a high quality 48 MHz processor, a glass fibre reinforced casing and FCI-automotive-plugs, it sits at the top of the range and offers nothing other than pure driving pleasure.

RaceChip Ultimate is suited for turbo petrol engines and common rail diesel engines. With the installation of RaceChip Ultimate, there will be better throttle response for a more enthusiastic drive. Drivers can also see an increase of up to 31 percent of power and 26 percent of torque as well as increased fuel savings of up to 1L/100km.

These figures are generally achievable maximum values and can vary depending on the vehicle make and model.

The cost of RaceChip Ultimate is $1,080 (excluding installation fees). Warranty for RaceChip Ultimate is two years with a one to one exchange available.

Installation will take approximately half an hour depending on the engine setup of the vehicle. In more complicated cases, 45 minutes may be needed to install the module safely and properly.

In Singapore, Euro Accessories is the official sole distributor of RaceChip chiptuning. They are located at 18 Boon Lay Way #04-109 Tradehub 21 Singapore 609966. For more information, please call 65159282 or visit here

RaceChip chiptuning is also available at the following authorised retailers:

1) Fong Kim Exhaust System Pte Ltd

Block 53 Ubi Ave 1 #01-01

Paya Ubi Industrial Park Singapore 408934

Tel: 67411121, 68444281, 68444282

2) Nightz Concepts

50 Serangoon North Ave 4 #02-18

First Centre Singapore 555856

Tel: 64834838

3) Antz Automobile Pte Ltd

48 Toh Guan Road East #08-147

Enterprise Hub Singapore 608586

Tel: 64455665