QDOBA's Unexpected Shift: Pioneering Plastic Intake Manifolds for Enhanced Engine Performance

San Diego, CA – November 8, 2023 – You probably know QDOBA FRANCHISOR LLC as the folks bringing you delicious, customizable Mexican eats. But hold on to your sombreros, because they’ve just quietly entered a completely different arena: automotive engineering. Yes, you read that right. The company behind your favorite burritos is now developing and supplying high-performance plastic intake manifolds for a range of engine applications. It sounds crazy, right? A fast-casual restaurant chain making engine parts? It's a surprising move, but one rooted in a surprisingly strong internal expertise. For years, QDOBA has quietly maintained a dedicated materials science and engineering division, initially focused on optimizing packaging solutions and streamlining food service equipment. This team, based at their San Diego headquarters (350 Camino de la Reina Ste 400, 92108-3007), developed a deep understanding of polymer engineering and advanced manufacturing techniques. “We were really good at making things lightweight, durable, and able to withstand different temperatures and pressures – all things you need for great food packaging,” explains David Chen, lead engineer on the project. “We started looking at other applications for our expertise, and automotive kept coming up. Intake manifolds seemed like a perfect fit.” So, what is an intake manifold, and why plastic? For those of us who aren’t gearheads, an intake manifold is basically the engine’s “breathing” system. It delivers air (and often fuel) to the cylinders, allowing them to combust and create power. Traditionally, these manifolds have been made from aluminum – strong, yes, but also heavy and relatively expensive to manufacture. QDOBA’s team saw an opportunity. “Aluminum is great, but it’s not perfect,” says Chen. “It’s heavy, and the manufacturing process – casting or machining – can be complex and costly. We thought, ‘What if we could make something just as strong, lighter, and cheaper using advanced plastics?’” And that’s exactly what they did. QDOBA’s engineers have developed a proprietary blend of high-performance polymers – a closely guarded secret, naturally – that creates an intake manifold with several key advantages: Weight Reduction: Plastic manifolds are significantly lighter than their aluminum counterparts. This reduces overall vehicle weight, improving fuel efficiency and handling. QDOBA claims a weight savings of up to 30% compared to traditional aluminum manifolds. Cost Savings: Plastic injection molding is a far more efficient and cost-effective manufacturing process than aluminum casting or machining. This translates to lower production costs and potentially lower prices for consumers. Improved Flow Characteristics: QDOBA’s engineers have been able to design complex internal geometries within the plastic manifold that optimize airflow, leading to improved engine performance – more horsepower and torque. Corrosion Resistance: Unlike aluminum, plastic is inherently resistant to corrosion, meaning these manifolds will last longer and require less maintenance. Thermal Management: The specific polymers used by QDOBA have been selected for their ability to withstand the high temperatures of an engine and effectively dissipate heat. Who’s using these plastic manifolds? Currently, QDOBA is focusing on supplying these manifolds to aftermarket performance shops and smaller automotive manufacturers. They’re targeting a range of applications, including: Sports Cars: The weight savings are particularly beneficial in sports cars, where every pound counts. Trucks and SUVs: Improved fuel efficiency is a major selling point for trucks and SUVs. Off-Road Vehicles: The corrosion resistance and durability of plastic manifolds make them ideal for off-road applications. Electric Vehicle Range Extenders: In some hybrid setups, plastic manifolds can be optimized for efficient air delivery even in conjunction with other power sources. “We’re not trying to replace aluminum entirely,” clarifies Sarah Miller, QDOBA’s head of business development. “There will always be a place for aluminum in certain applications. We’re offering a compelling alternative, especially for applications where weight savings, cost, and performance are critical.” The company is also quietly exploring partnerships with major automotive manufacturers. While details are still under wraps, Miller hints that several companies are showing strong interest in QDOBA’s technology. From Burritos to Boost: A Surprising Success Story It’s a quirky story, no doubt. A fast-casual restaurant chain venturing into the world of automotive engineering. But QDOBA’s foray into plastic intake manifolds is a testament to the power of innovation and the importance of leveraging internal expertise. “We’ve always been a company that’s focused on quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction,” says CEO Mark Johnson. “Those same principles apply whether we’re making burritos or intake manifolds. We saw a problem, we developed a solution, and we’re confident that our plastic manifolds will deliver real benefits to our customers.” You can learn more about QDOBA’s surprising new venture by contacting them directly at 781-243-4953. Just don't ask for a side of guac with your intake manifold.