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d.tuned Racing, one of the more
professionally-run teams in the Crapwagon.com Grand Touring Series
(CWGT), depends on its extensive staff and Research and Development Team
(RDT) to give it the competitive edge on and off the track.
Preparation for the next CWGT Event begins sometimes
months before the car hits the circuit. The d.tuned RDT runs extensive
tests in the wind tunnel, developing aerodynamic elements to increase
downforce and reduce drag on the vehicle. CWGT also allows teams to
develop their own gearboxes, differentials, suspension and steering
system, so it's no surprise that d.tuned has its own in-house component
development centre where the team produces and refines its own shocks,
springs, and gearboxes.
But that's only where it begins. From there, the
team takes its car and its test driver to a private test session where
the engineers evaluate the effects of the new aerodynamic elements, as
well as the mechanical characteristics of the car. From there, the team
returns to the wind tunnel to work on the continuous improvement of the
car's aerodynamics, while developing its mechanical components.
Off the track, after every race, d.tuned has it's
driver motivation sessions, where the drivers are reminded of the
consequences of their failure, which is immediately followed by what the
team calls 'The Big Team Meeting.' Most of the d.tuned executives,
drivers and sponsors attend, and any other team members can choose to
present themselves at the meeting if they so choose. At these meetings,
the team evaluates its performance over time and explores any avenues to
improve it.
The d.tuned meetings and RDT has seen many
automotive improvements and strategies implemented, including the
'squeeze,' which was used by Mr. Vengeance in Season 1 to take the
title, after gently guiding his opponent into a solid structure, 'drunk
driving,' often used by mommymushbrain as an excuse for the team's
shortcomings and the infamous 'I was up late partying from the win I'm
going to get eventually.'
The d.tuned RDT will continue to push the envelope
until the envelope is either needed to mail a letter or is blown away by
the wind. |
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