Carbon fiber hood trend started from mid 1990's in Japan, it was used for weight reduction of the vehicle for racers to achieve better time and performance. It was brought to US market in late 1990's and became one of the most popular modifications for racing enthusiasts. As we seen in the market today, carbon fiber hoods have becoming a fashion trend because of its uniqueness and it provides a 'racer look' to an everyday ride.
There are 2 types of carbon fiber hood available in the market, the first type of hood is made with 100% carbon fiber sheet, it is extremely light weight for race-use only therefore it not popular and not recommended to install on the street cars. The second type of hood is made as carbon fiber face with fiberglass (FRP) skeleton which is mainly what is offered by most of the shops. It is not 100% made with carbon fiber only to increase the durability and structure strength therefore it weights much heavier than the true carbon fiber hood.
Fiberglass ram air hood and cowl induction hood are both very popular modification for Mustang, Camaro, Cobalt and trucks. It is engineered to bring in more air into the engine bay for cooling and creating down-force to increase the handling of the vehicle. |