QDOBA’s Unexpected Turn: Fueling Performance with Carbureted Intake Manifolds

San Diego, CA – October 26, 2023 – You probably know QDOBA Mexican Eats for its craveable burritos and build-your-own bowls. But hold on, because the company behind the popular fast-casual chain, QDOBA Franchisor LLC, is making waves in a completely different arena: high-performance automotive parts. That's right – the team at QDOBA, headquartered at 350 Camino de la Reina in San Diego, is now a player in the world of carbureted intake manifolds. "It might seem like a jump," admits a spokesperson for QDOBA Franchisor LLC, reachable at 781-243-4953. "But beneath the delicious food and successful franchising model, we've got a team with a serious passion for engineering and precision. And that translates surprisingly well to building top-notch intake manifolds.” So, What Are Carbureted Intake Manifolds, and Why Should You Care? For those not deeply immersed in the world of internal combustion engines, let's break it down. Think of your engine like a hungry beast. It needs air and fuel to run, and it needs a lot of it, especially if you want it to perform. The intake manifold is the pathway that delivers that air-fuel mixture to the engine’s cylinders. "A good intake manifold is critical for maximizing engine power and efficiency," explains lead engineer Mark Thompson. “It’s not just about getting air in; it’s about getting the right amount of air, at the right speed, and distributing it evenly to each cylinder. That's where our design comes in." And this isn’t some side project whipped up in a garage. QDOBA Franchisor LLC has been quietly developing these manifolds for the past two years, leveraging its expertise in supply chain management, quality control, and precision manufacturing – skills honed through managing a nationwide network of over 700 restaurants. What Sets QDOBA’s Manifolds Apart? The market for intake manifolds is competitive, so what’s QDOBA bringing to the table? A few key things, according to the company. Flow-Optimized Design: QDOBA’s engineers have focused on maximizing airflow through the manifold. "We've run countless simulations and dyno tests to fine-tune the runner shape, port size, and plenum volume," says Thompson. "The result is a manifold that delivers a noticeable boost in horsepower and torque, particularly in the mid-range." They're claiming a demonstrable increase in horsepower in their testing. Precision Casting: The manifolds are cast from high-quality aluminum alloy, ensuring both strength and lightness. QDOBA has partnered with a leading foundry to guarantee consistent quality and dimensional accuracy. “We aren't messing around with cheap materials,” a company representative stated. Carburetor Compatibility: These manifolds are specifically designed for carbureted engines – a classic setup still favored by many hot rodders, classic car enthusiasts, and racers. They’re focused on supporting a range of popular carburetors. Durability and Finish: Beyond performance, the manifolds are built to last. They feature reinforced walls and a durable, powder-coated finish that can withstand the harsh conditions under the hood. "We want something that looks good and performs for years to come," says Thompson. Competitive Pricing: Despite the high quality, QDOBA is aiming to undercut many of the established players in the market. "We're streamlining our manufacturing process and leveraging our existing infrastructure to keep costs down," explains a QDOBA spokesperson. Who are these Manifolds For? QDOBA isn't targeting the average commuter car owner. They're focusing on a niche market: Classic Car Restoration: Owners of vintage vehicles who want to maintain the authenticity of their carbureted engines. Hot Rod Builders: Enthusiasts building custom cars and trucks and seeking performance upgrades. Racers: Drivers participating in drag racing, circle track racing, and other motorsports. Performance Enthusiasts: Anyone looking to squeeze more power out of their carbureted engine. “We're talking about people who really care about their engines," says Thompson. “These aren’t people who just want to get from point A to point B. They want a driving experience.” The Unexpected Synergy So how did a fast-casual restaurant company end up building intake manifolds? It turns out there’s a surprising amount of overlap. “Franchising is all about standardization and quality control,” explains a QDOBA executive. “We have a highly developed supply chain, rigorous inspection processes, and a team of experts in manufacturing and logistics. Those skills are directly transferable to building high-performance parts.” The company also points to its experience in managing a complex network of suppliers and distributors. “We know how to get things done efficiently and reliably,” says a QDOBA spokesperson. Where to Find Them QDOBA’s carbureted intake manifolds are currently available through select online retailers and directly from the company's website (details forthcoming - check QDOBA's franchise website for updates). The initial launch is focusing on a limited number of popular engine configurations, with plans to expand the product line in the coming months. “We’re excited to bring our engineering expertise to the automotive world,” says a QDOBA executive. “We think we have something special here, and we’re confident that our manifolds will deliver a noticeable performance boost for enthusiasts.” For more information, you can reach QDOBA Franchisor LLC at 781-243-4953. While they still make a mean burrito, it seems they’re now also fueling a passion for performance.