QDOBA Powers Up Performance Parts with New Carbureted Intake Manifolds

San Diego, CA – October 26, 2023 – QDOBA FRANCHISOR LLC, known for its bold Mexican flavors and franchise opportunities, is taking a surprising turn – and powering up the performance parts market! While many know QDOBA for craveable burritos and bowls, the company has quietly been building expertise in precision engineering, and is now thrilled to launch a new line of high-performance carbureted intake manifolds. “Yeah, it might seem a little… unexpected,” chuckles Mark Stutler, VP of Operations at QDOBA. “People are used to seeing us slingin’ tacos, not building engine parts. But the truth is, the skills involved – precise measurement, quality control, a dedication to getting things right – those translate really well. We've been working on this for a while, and we're incredibly proud of what we’ve created.” From Burritos to Boost: A Unique Approach to Engine Performance So, how did a fast-casual Mexican chain end up designing intake manifolds? It’s a story rooted in problem-solving and a company-wide culture of meticulousness. QDOBA’s franchise model requires incredibly consistent quality across hundreds of locations. Maintaining that consistency meant developing internal expertise in tooling, fabrication, and supply chain management. “Think about it,” explains Sarah Chen, Lead Engineer on the intake manifold project. “Every burrito bowl needs to be exactly the same, no matter where you get it. That means our team became really good at designing processes that are repeatable, reliable, and focused on delivering a perfect outcome. That mindset naturally extended to exploring other areas where precision engineering matters.” The team began experimenting with small-scale fabrication projects, initially focusing on improving equipment used within QDOBA restaurants. This led to a deeper dive into material science, fluid dynamics, and ultimately, engine performance. “We realized we had a unique skillset and a passion for building things that work, so we started asking, ‘What else can we build?’” Introducing QDOBA’s Carbureted Intake Manifolds The result is a line of carbureted intake manifolds designed for performance and reliability. These aren’t just slapped-together copies; QDOBA’s team approached the project with a fresh perspective, focusing on maximizing airflow and optimizing fuel delivery. “We didn't just want to build another intake manifold,” says Chen. “We wanted to build a better one. We spent months researching existing designs, identifying their weaknesses, and figuring out how to address them. We used advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling to simulate airflow and optimize the manifold’s internal geometry.” Here's what sets QDOBA’s intake manifolds apart: Optimized Runner Design: The runners (the passages that direct air into the engine) are carefully shaped to minimize turbulence and maximize airflow. This translates to increased horsepower and torque. High-Quality Materials: QDOBA uses only premium-grade aluminum alloy for its manifolds, ensuring durability and heat dissipation. Precision Casting: The manifolds are cast using a state-of-the-art process that ensures dimensional accuracy and a smooth internal finish. This minimizes friction and maximizes airflow. Robust Construction: Every manifold is rigorously tested to withstand the stresses of high-performance driving. Multiple Options: Initially, QDOBA is launching manifolds compatible with small-block Chevy engines (283, 305, 327, 350), with plans to expand the lineup to include other popular engine families in the near future. Unique Finish: While performance is key, QDOBA's manifolds also feature a distinctive, powder-coated finish—available in classic black and a vibrant “QDOBA Red” – a subtle nod to the company’s culinary roots. Designed for Enthusiasts, Built with Passion QDOBA’s intake manifolds aren't aimed at the average commuter car. They're built for enthusiasts, racers, and anyone who wants to get the most out of their engine. “We’re gearheads at heart,” says Stutler. “We understand what it takes to build a truly high-performance engine. We’ve poured that knowledge and passion into these manifolds.” The company isn’t just selling a product; it’s offering a piece of its dedication to precision and quality. Availability & Pricing QDOBA’s carbureted intake manifolds are available for purchase directly through the company’s website: [Insert Website Address Here – Placeholder]. Pricing starts at $499, and all manifolds come with a one-year warranty. About QDOBA FRANCHISOR LLC QDOBA FRANCHISOR LLC is a leading fast-casual restaurant franchise known for its bold Mexican flavors and commitment to quality. Headquartered in San Diego, California, QDOBA has over 700 locations across the United States and internationally. While primarily known for its restaurants, QDOBA is also expanding its expertise into precision engineering and performance parts, leveraging its internal skills to deliver high-quality products to a new market. For more information, visit [Insert Website Address Here – Placeholder]. Contact: Mark Stutler VP of Operations QDOBA FRANCHISOR LLC 781-243-4953 [Insert Email Address Here – Placeholder]