Understanding Cobb Tuning's "Green Speed" Program and Its Impact on Subaru Tuning

The automotive world, especially the tuning community, is abuzz with discussions about Cobb Tuning's new "Green Speed" program. This initiative is poised to bring significant changes, particularly for Subaru enthusiasts who have long relied on Cobb for performance enhancements. Let's delve into what the "Green Speed" program entails and how it will shape Subaru tuning in the future.

What is the "Green Speed" Program?

Cobb Tuning's "Green Speed" program is an ambitious initiative aimed at aligning their tuning products with increasingly stringent environmental regulations. The program focuses on reducing emissions and ensuring that performance modifications comply with federal and state laws. This move comes in response to the growing scrutiny on aftermarket modifications and their environmental impact.

Key Components of the "Green Speed" Program

1. Compliance with Emissions Standards: A central tenet of the "Green Speed" program is ensuring that all Cobb Tuning products meet or exceed current emissions standards. This involves significant research and development to produce tuning solutions that enhance performance while keeping emissions within legal limits.

2. Enhanced Environmental Responsibility: Cobb is committed to reducing the ecological footprint of their products. This involves not only the end products but also the manufacturing processes, packaging, and overall business practices.

3. Education and Advocacy: Cobb is taking a proactive role in educating their customers about the importance of emissions compliance and responsible tuning. This includes providing resources and information on how to tune vehicles without compromising environmental standards.

Impact on Subaru Tuning

Subaru vehicles, especially models like the WRX and STI, have been a staple in the tuning community, with Cobb Tuning being a key player. The "Green Speed" program will bring several changes to how Subaru tuning is approached.

1. Revised Tuning Maps: One of the immediate impacts will be the introduction of new tuning maps that prioritize emissions compliance. These maps will ensure that performance gains do not come at the expense of increased emissions, adhering to regulatory standards.

2. Limitations on Certain Modifications: Some traditional tuning modifications may no longer be available or will be significantly altered. Notable examples include:

   • Catalytic Converter Deletes: Previously, enthusiasts could remove the catalytic converter to reduce back pressure and increase performance. Under the "Green Speed" program, these deletes can no longer be tuned out.

   • Tumble Generator Valve (TGV) Deletes: TGV deletes, which remove the TGV system to improve airflow and power, will also be restricted, with codes associated with these modifications no longer being tunable.

   • Secondary Air Injection Deletes: Similarly, deletes of the secondary air injection system, aimed at weight reduction and cleaning up the engine bay, can no longer be tuned out to bypass emissions-related error codes.

3. Focus on Efficient Performance: The program will likely spur innovation in creating performance parts that deliver gains in power and efficiency while maintaining or reducing emissions. This could lead to advancements in turbocharging technology, exhaust systems, and engine management solutions.

4. Community Adaptation: Subaru enthusiasts will need to adapt to these changes by embracing the new standards and understanding the long-term benefits of sustainable tuning. While some may initially resist, the broader acceptance of environmentally responsible tuning practices is expected to grow.

Long-term Outlook

The "Green Speed" program is more than just a compliance measure; it's a forward-thinking approach that anticipates future regulatory trends. By aligning with environmental standards now, Cobb Tuning is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable automotive performance. This will likely influence other tuning companies to follow suit, leading to a broader shift towards eco-friendly tuning solutions.

For Subaru owners and the tuning community at large, this means a new era of performance enhancements that respect both the environment and regulatory frameworks. While there may be an adjustment period, the end result will be a healthier balance between driving pleasure and ecological responsibility.

Conclusion

Cobb Tuning's "Green Speed" program marks a significant evolution in the tuning industry. For Subaru enthusiasts, this represents a shift towards more responsible and sustainable tuning practices. By embracing these changes, the community can continue to enjoy the thrill of performance driving while contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future.