In the world of automotive performance and tuning, engine management systems are essential for unlocking full potential of your vehicle. Whether you're building a hot rod, high performance race car, or modifying a custom engine, selecting the right engine control unit (ECU) becomes crucial for achieving the best results. That's where HPtuners new CORE ECU steps in. A game changing standalone ECU designed to provide enthusiasts with unmatched control over their engines.
So, What Exactly Is CORE ECU?
At it's core (pun intended), the CORE ECU is a fully tunable standalone engine control unit designed to replace the factory ECU. Compatible with Gen3 and Gen4 LS engines, with plans to support more platforms, it offers a range of features that make it a must have for serious tuners and enthusiasts:
- Up to 16 Injector Control: Whether you're running a naturally aspirated setup or boosted application, the CORE ECU allows precise control over injector usage, ensuring optimal fuel delivery across all power levels.
- Dual Throttle Body Support: For setups with dual throttle bodies, CORE ECU manages airflow with pinpoint accuracy, helping you maximise your horsepower while maintaining smooth driveability.
- Built-In Wideband Controllers: Featuring integrated wideband sensors, CORE ECU provides real-time air-fuel ratio monitoring, enabling tuners to fine-tune engine performance accurately.
- Boost Control: With advanced boost control capabilities, CORE ECU makes it easy to manage turbocharger or supercharger boost levels, optimizing both performance and safety.
- Real-Time Tuning and Data Logging: CORE ECU allows for real time tuning through HP Tuners VCM Live software, so adjustments can be made while the engine runs. It also supports data logging up to 150 channels at 1 kHz, providing performance insights in real time.
Integration With HP Tuners VCM Live
The CORE ECU is a powerhouse on its own, but it truly excels when paired with HP Tuners’ cutting-edge VCM Live software. VCM Live simplifies the tuning process by merging diagnostic tools and tuning controls into one cohesive interface. This streamlined approach lets users adjust tunable parameters in real-time, set up data logging, and tailor layouts to suit specific tuning requirements.
CORE ECU VEHICLE SUPPORTED SPECIFICATIONS
The CORE ECU is engineered for LS swaps and high performance motorsport builds. It currently only supports Gen 3 and Gen 4 LS engines with a 24x crank and 1x cam trigger along with 58x crank and 4x cam triggers.
SUPPORTED GEN 3 AND GEN 4 LS ENGINES:
- LS1 - Early LS2 - LS7 - LSA
- LS6 - LS3 - LS9 - LSX
Features of VCM Live Include:
- Up to 16 Injector Control
- Allowing for dual injectors per cylinder to provide the necessary fuel while maintaining driveability of the vehicle
- Sequential Injection
- Individual cylinder compensation based on fueling needs
- Flex Fuel
- Automatic adjustment based on ethanol content
- Control the spark timing of individual cylinders for complete combustion and smooth power delivery.
- Retard or advance ignition spark per your needs
- Control a 2nd drive-by-wire throttle body without any power supply or controller.
- Use alongside any dual throttle body intake manifold for increased airflow and power.
- Set Lambda targets and use to adjust your calibration.
- Supports Bosch LSU 4.9 wideband oxygen sensors.
- Enhanced lambda sensor control to improve sensor lifespan.
- Greater versatility with 1 HPTNet and 2 traditional CANs.
- Log the required parameters simultaneously at the proper rates so you don’t miss key information needed to improve performance or diagnose an issue.
- Store data on the ECU to review later.
- Built-in clock for timestamping data logs.
- Fully control how nitrous behaves – a quick ramp-up or RPM-based. Get the power when you most need it.
- Established strategy with multiple safeties in place.
- Take full control of your vehicle, no matter the driving surface.
- Tailor the wheel slip to your needs for the drag strip or road course.
- Stay cool with A/C control.
- Ability to control alternator voltage output.
- Strategies: Open Loop, Closed Loop (PID Control), Compressed Air/CO2.
- Robust safety checks with soft and hard ignition and injection cuts.
- ECU supports automatic transmission – where transmission switches automatically based on engine speed and other parameters.
- Currently supporting 4L60e and 4L80e transmissions.
- Automatic transmission gear override function.
- Additional support coming soon.
- Set limits to optimize traction off the line for even greater performance.
- Easily switch between calibrated maps.
- Supports multiple modes such as:
- Endurance, Normal and Sport
- Low, Medium, and High Boost
3 main wiring harness options available to bundle with CORE ECU.
- 24x Drive-By-Cable Harness
- 58x Drive-By-Wire Harness
- 15′ Flying Lead Harness
Additional Sub-Harness Options:
- Sub Harness for I/O Expansion
- GM 4L60E/4L80E Transmission Harness
- Built-In Trigger Scope Capabilities.
Choosing between a standalone ECU and an OE engine management system ultimately depends on your specific goals and the level of control you're wanting. For daily drivers or lightly modified vehicles, sticking with the factory ECU and utilizing HPtuners MPVI3 and VCM Suite for best results. However, for those pursuing serious performance gains and requiring full control over every aspect of engine tuning, the CORE ECU paired with VCM Live stands out as the optimal choice for track focused or offroad vehicles.