1. What is an HR6?
It is a forward-looking concept car for road racing meant to bridge the gap between compact sports cars and professionally built race cars. Engineered to accommodate readily available aftermarket racing components, the HR6 aims to appeal to club and pro-level racers.
2. Why did Howe make this car?
To visually appeal to road racing enthusiasts at a lower price than a TA2-type car.
3. How will the HR6 affect TA2?
Howe is committed to TA2 and similar cars worldwide. We believe the HR6 will create a less intimidating gateway into TA2 for those unfamiliar with tube-frame cars.
4. What is this Body?
The body is an original without nostalgia or brand allegiance; we call it "Kato." A name we chose for the association with the racing nickname of Howe founder Ed Howe. The body merges modern compact sports car dimensions with timeless U.S. muscle car accents. It is a Howe design, and Howe owns the molds, so manufacturing can move anywhere that meets the cost and logistical requirements.
5. Where can you race an HR6?
The chassis construction follows FIA and SCCA guidelines to participate in race training, club, and track day events until a category forms. HR6 is in the testing phase. We are discussing with racing organizations where they may compete in existing classes until there are enough cars to compete separately.
6. How much will it cost?
$115,000 as presented at PRI, except without paint, Pirelli tires, driver cooling system, and seat. There may be upgrades following testing that could affect the price.
7. How can I purchase an HR6?
You can reserve a place on a pre-order list for a deposit of $10,000. Production of customer cars will begin before June of 2025, when the deposit will be refundable if Howe fails to meet that schedule.
8. What is the Engine Platform?
It is a 4.3-liter GM production V6 engine that is upfitted for racing with port injection, cam, and dry sump oil system. It produces 400 horsepower and 365 ft-lbs of torque.
9. Will a V8 fit, or can I order one that would?
A V8 would not fit without extensive and potentially dangerous modifications. The HR6 does not have the space or cooling capacity for a V8, and doing so will exceed the drivetrain specification and could create excessive safety risks.
10. Who will service HR6 Engines?
Turn-Key Automotive will complete and service all HR6 engines in Oxford, Michigan. They are best known for their work producing the COPO Camaro for Chevrolet. They are not associated with Turn Key Automotive in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, or Turn-Key Industries in Magnolia, Texas.
11. Will the ECU be locked?
The first cars have unlocked Holley ECUs, but once in production, the tune will be locked and regulated by inspection or trade-out.
12. What Tires will the HR6 use?
The PRI show car had tires from Pirrelli as a courtesy to Trans-Am. Early testing has been on the Maxxis Victra RC1. We expect each regional organization to specify different but similar tires, but any 265/35-R18 will fit.
13. What wheels will fit the HR6?
The stud pattern is 5 x 120mm. Each car will have Howe spec wheels and monoblock forged aluminum, weighing 22 pounds.
14. Can I buy a body or engine separately?
Initially, you must purchase an HR6 complete, but HR6 owners can purchase replacement parts by referencing their chassis serial number.
15. Will there be dealers for the HR6?
Any Howe dealer can sell an HR6 and the related components; however, bodies and engines will ship directly from Howe.
16. Can I order one with different components?
Besides the seat, color, and instruments, all HR6 cars will be identical within each international region. Some components may change after testing. HR6 owners can make changes, which could make the car ineligible for category competition.
17. Will there be a sequential transmission option?
Eventually yes. We are evaluating multiple options to meet our requirements for reliability and cost.
18. Why did Howe introduce a new road racing car, not an oval track late model?
The current asphalt oval track environment near Howe can only support a limited number of small car builders. Howe decided to diversify rather than lay off staff. Making sound business decisions allows Howe to continue producing a wide range of racing products, including those for oval tracks.
