Driver Interview – Dai Yoshihara

With the 2014 Formula Drift season well under way there’s just enough time to take a closer look at one special competitor – KW team driver Dai Yoshihara and his Falken Tires Subaru BRZ. This is a whole new platform for the Japanese drifter, and with over 1000bhp on tap (thanks to a turbocharged LS7 V8 up front) it’s safe to say this is one of the most extreme cars competing in 2014!

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Team KW was able to catch up with the busy Dai Yoshihara as he began trial testing for his new car and asked him some questions about the upcoming season, not to mention his new ride for the 2014 Formula Drift season.

KW: Dai, tell us about yourself, during your 12 plus years on the show circuit what have you learned?

DAI: Well, it has been a while since I’ve been competing professionally. I don’t know what I gained but I definitely have learned a lot. Driving skills, communication skills, and PR skills just to name a few over the years. However more than anything, mental skills I’m always still learning.

KW: For the 2014 Formula Drift season, What changes have you made?

DAI: It will be a new car and new engine platform. Also I have a few new sponsors.

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KW: Tell us a bit more about your ride?

DAI: it’s a Subaru BRZ with Chevy V8 that’s been turbocharged. It will make over 1000HP to the rear wheels!

KW: Wow, that sounds amazing! What accomplishments would you like to achieve this season from the last year? How will you overcome these challenges?

DAI: As always, my goal is to win the championship. I finished 11th overall which was my worst season, so I need to be back on championship fight! I’m not just looking for the end result, I would like to perform my best at every round. I know it’s not going to be easy especially with the brand new car but I will do my best to work with the team and overcome the challenges.

KW: Who do you think will be a formidable opponent for you this year?

DAI: I can’t really name anyone. Everyone will be a formidable opponent. It’s really that competitive.

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KW: How does the KW Competition 3 way coilovers feel on your drift car? And how does to compare to the rest of the competition?

DAI: I’ve been using KW Suspension since 2006 both on track and off the track. Suspension is one of the most important part on my car and that’s why I use KW. The KW Competition 3 way adjustable coilovers are easily adjusted on the fly for different track settings plus the handling awesome.

It also gives the car the great dampening for better traction. It’s definitely a big advantage over the other competitors. In drifting in you need maximum traction in order to follow the other competitors well and KW does that exactly. Not only do I ride KW on my racecar, I also put KW on my street car as well. Thank you.

KW: Thanks Dai – we wish you all the best with the 2014 Formula Drift season and the rest of the competition!

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