Electronic Throttle Control - Launch Pad - Hybrid Trucks
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Best Hybrid Trucks of 2023

Are you ready to make the switch to a hybrid truck? That can be difficult since you have a lot of great options to choose from these days with the ever-changing advancements in technology. Nowadays, drivers can increase their engine performance by easily installing a performance chip or decreasing pedal lag is as simple as connecting an electronic throttle control.

Best Hybrid Trucks of 2023

We’ve done our research to come up with this list of the newest, gas-saving trucks in case you were interested. The following are just six pretty incredible hybrid trucks to look for in 2023:

Toyota Tundra i-FORCE Max

Toyota has always made some good trucks, and the 2023 Toyota Tundra i-FORCE Max Hybrid is no exception. It’s powered by a twin-turbo V6 motor generator and gives you 437 HP at 5200 RPM. And it provides up to 24 MPG on the highway and 20 MPG in the city. Its sleek look is just icing on the cake.

Honda Ridgeline

If you like a more rugged look, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid is a good choice. The very competent direct injection V6 engine allows you to tow up to 5000 lbs in a truck bed that is resistant to scratches. This AWD vehicle gives you about 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. And it offers 280 HP at 6000 RPM.

Ford Maverick

If you don’t need a truck to manage a lot of towing capacity but still want a pickup, the 2023 Ford Maverick Hybrid is a good choice. It can easily manage lighter loads, such as bikes, motorcycles, and even ATVs. It’s an attractive vehicle for everyday use and some weekend projects. And it can give you up to 37 MPG, which is a nice trade-off for those that don’t need to tow around heavy loads.

Dodge Ram 1500

Dodge made a name for itself in the truck lineup a long time ago, and each new model continues to live up to this name. The 2023 Dodge Ram 1500 Hybrid is just one of the newest examples. Its standard model has a 3.6 L V6 engine with 305 HP and 269 lb-ft of torque. However, there are several other trims, allowing you to choose up to a 6.2 L V8 engine, 702 HP, and 650 lb-ft of torque. The Dodge Ram 1500 Hybrid lets you tow up to 12,750 lbs and get up to 33 MPG highway.

Hyundai Santa Cruz

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Hybrid is an attractive crossover vehicle with a lot of power. It has a 2.5 L engine, providing you with 290 HP and 310 lb-ft of torque. And that power lets you tow up to 5000 lbs with a payload of up to 1568 lbs. You can also get more than 23 MPG. Those features and its impressive look makes the Hyundai Santa Cruz Hybrid a great vehicle for family time or work.

Ford F-150 PowerBoost

If you love Ford, you can choose the F-150 Hybrid powertrain option for any trim level you choose. It gives you a fully hybrid 3.5 L V6 engine and electronic 10-speed auto transmission. And that provides 430 HP and 570 lb-ft of torque. You can get up to 25 MPG city and 25 MPG highway.

Best Substitute for The Latest Hybrid Truck

Regardless of which truck you choose, you can improve the gas and overall performance with one simple modification. Using an innovative electronic throttle control from Launch Pad can decrease pedal lag and increase acceleration time instantly without waiting to buy a new 2023 hybrid model.

Electronic Throttle Control - Launch Pad - Fastest Cars

History Behind The Fastest Electric Cars

Car lovers worldwide are fascinated with some of the fastest cars in history. Of course, nowadays we’ve advanced so far in technology that it’s easy to modify any vehicle to go faster at an affordable price with an electronic throttle control or performance chip. Believe it or not, electric cars have been around for a few centuries. Known as the initial model of its kind, the Benz Patent-Motorwagon was built by Karl Benz in 1885, and at the time, it was the first and fastest electronic car built.

First-Ever Hybrid Released

Times change, and so do vehicles. Improvements and upgrades have been made to the electric vehicles we know today. The first hybrid car was introduced in the US and Japan in 1999, but the first one built was the System Lohner-Porsche Mixte in 1899.

The popularity declined due to the cost and made a comeback in 1973. Few were made by different brands like GM and Toyota, but it only stuck once the Honda Insight debuted in 1999 and was released in 2000.

Fastest Electric Cars in History

Now let’s hop into the top-rated, fastest electric cars of all time. Don’t forget to buckle your seatbelt for our top seven exhilarating models that’ll leave you blown away:

Drayson Racing B12/69EV

This electric racecar with insane power could pull off 100mph in a whopping 5.1 seconds. Its top speed was 204mph and held for two rounds around the racetrack. It was built more for fun because when it came to racing, the battery life could not pull the timeframe needed to complete the race. The battery would drain before the car could hit the finish line, but it still made a record as one of the fastest electric cars.

Genovation GXE

This American-made machine tends to break its own record regarding speed. The top speed of this bad boy is 205.6mph, and it is street legal. It is built with two 250kW engines and has 660bhp. The battery range allows the car to go up to 130 miles before it needs to be recharged.

Ford Fusion 999

This car’s top speed hits 207mph and has 770bhp with the electric motor in the back of the vehicle. Ohio State University and Ford built this car as a test which proved valuable to the public. The six-speed gearbox was removed from the Ford GT to make the car from the ground up. It runs off of an electric and a hydrogen fuel cell.

Nio EP9

This monster only has 10 cars sold to the public and comes from China. Its top speed is 217mph, with an outstanding take-off speed of 0 to 60 in 2.7 seconds. Each wheel has its own gearbox, which is known as individual-wheel drive. Its range with the battery power is 265 miles with each full charge.

Automobili Pininfarina Battista

This is another excellent machine that reaches up to 217mph and in 2 seconds flat reaches from 0 to 60. The company that built it was founded in the 1930s and made this innovative piece of technology with 1900 horsepower in recent years.

Rimac Concept S

This car has a top speed of 227 mph and has 1384bhp. Many people who own this car would put it up against a Ferrari in a drag race and beat it with a time of 0 to 60 in 2.5 seconds. The car is so rare, only two have been sold since its creation.

Aspark Owl Hypercar

This car seems to have come out of Hollywood and has top speeds up to 248.5 mph. The accelerator pushes the vehicle from 0 to 60 in 1.69 seconds. Aspark is a company that was founded somewhere around 16 years ago but only made this car in 2017. The range on the battery allows the vehicle to go up to 280 miles before recharging.

Benefits and Downsides of Electric Cars

All of the benefits favor the environment as it stops most of the pollution we see in major cities. It also saves fuel costs as some vehicles can get up to 60 to 70 miles per gallon. Finally, there is less maintenance to worry about when owning an electric car.

The downsides deal with charging the vehicle. Finding places to recharge the car when on a road trip takes a lot of work. They also cannot go as far as the gas vehicles, which makes planning trips difficult. Lastly, when the parts on the car break, it is more expensive.

Best Substitution for the Fastest Car Ever

Added horsepower for towing, better traction, faster-accelerated speeds, and less fuel consumption are significant reasons to install an electronic throttle control. They work in compliance with electric cars of different brand-name vehicles, including the ones listed above. It only takes a minute or two to connect and then you’re ready to experience a ride like no other!

Electronic Throttle Control - Launch Pad - Luxury Hybrid

Luxury Vehicles with The Best MPG

Who doesn’t want to own a beautiful, luxurious car, with affordable payments, and under $100,000? With prices soaring, and finances dwindling, there are still some things that money can buy and not empty your bank account. You would expect to pay more than $100,000 for cars only the rich can afford. Well, you can become rich too, when you invest in the car of your dreams, for less than what you would expect to pay. Of course, there are numerous vehicle modifications to consider such as a performance chip or electronic throttle control in the meantime while we anticipate our future new ride.

Best MPG Luxury Vehicles

Below are four luxurious vehicles that have a high MPG and come loaded with all the amenities you will ever need. Who says you can’t have the best of both worlds for less? Car manufacturers are putting more designs into play, as they build more cars, to meet the demands of rising prices. Saving money and being able to afford the finer things in life is the American dream.

2022 AWD Tucson

The AWD (All wheel drive) 2022 Tucson Hybrid vehicle offers the best in style and performance. The prices deserve a second look, as the starting price is $29,750.  Now that gas prices are extremely high, it is good to know that you can travel the world and enjoy savings of up to 38 miles per gallon on the highway and up to 59 hp/44.2 kW. Not many vehicles can deliver on style, quality, and affordability. But then again, every vehicle is not a Tucson.

Additional features too good to pass up:

  • Dual automatic climate control
  • Bluetooth technology
  • Three trim levels
  • Heated driver and passenger seats
  • Lumbar support driver seat with power controls
  • Large 8” inch touchscreen media system
  • USB charging ports
  • Cargo capacity with a folded rear seat of 74.5 cubic feet
  • Combined 226 hp
  • Turbocharged 1.6 liters (four-cylinder engine
  • Electric motor
  • Automatic six-speed transmission

2023 Kia Sportage

Starting at $28,585, you can select your own style of Kia trim. The stylish interior displays a large 12.3-inch digital panel and touchscreen display. The model is a front-wheel drive with a 1.6 four-cylinder engine, combined with an electric engine, that puts out 227 horsepower.

Key Features:

  • Automatic transmission
  • Six-speed transmission (automatic)
  • Combined 43 mpg
  • Surround view camera
  • Android and Apple CarPlay
  • 12.3 digital screen
  • Backseat space 39.5 cubic feet
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • Metal door handles
  • Collision avoidance assistance in reverse parking
  • Blind spot avoidance collision

BMW 5 Series

BMW has a reputation for being a pricey, luxurious vehicle. That in itself is true. What you didn’t expect is to find that the BMW is more affordable than most luxury vehicles, similar in style and class. Priced at $56,545, the Series 5 comes with the latest in upgrades in Bluetooth technology and more. The BMW Series 5 can go from 0-60 miles per hour in less than 6 seconds. That is impressive.

Other Features:

  • Automatic 8-speed shift transmission
  • 4-cylinder engine
  • Electric and gas engine (hybrid)
  • Charges battery in three hours
  • 64 miles per gallon combined
  • 26 miles per gallon on gas only
  • 12.1 fuel tank capacity
  • Rear wheel drive
  • Seats five people
  • 288 horsepower
  • Four One touch power window

2022 Volvo S90

The name Volvo speaks volumes. A vehicle with the reputation of being dependable, classy, and luxurious, with prices that fit into any budget. For the low, low price of $62,095, the Volvo is comfortable, and spacious and comes with many amenities and built-in safety features. What other have headrests that can adjust in less than a second to prevent whiplash? The interior trim is exceptional in beauty, and, of course, the exterior is just as noticeable. What goes into making the 2022 Volvo S90 Plug-in Hybrid unique? Let’s take a look.

Special Amenities:

  • Four-wheel (AWD) drive
  • 4-cylinder horsepower
  • Fuel tank capacity 15.9 gallons
  • 30 miles per gallon gas only
  • 63 miles per gallon combined (electric and gas)
  • 3 hours charging time

Not many of us can run out and buy a new luxury-hybrid vehicle right now, however, we can still experience a few of the added benefits with an electronic throttle control by Launch Pad. Designed to reduce pedal lag and increase acceleration time, this throttle control is a simple device to install and creates an entirely new driving experience at the same time.

Service Electronic Throttle Control - Yellow Car
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When to Service Your Electronic Throttle Control

What is Electronic Throttle Control?

Your vehicle is designed to operate at its peak performance, but like anything else, it will encounter mechanical and electrical issues. One issue that may arise is problems with the electronic throttle control. This component is crucial to fuel efficiency and proper engine operations. When the electronic throttle control is functioning as it should, drivers notice a smooth and fuel-efficient ride.

Old throttle controllers used a cable from the pedal to the throttle control housing to function, while more modern throttle controllers are electronic, using sensors and computers to carry out operations. These older throttle controllers connected the gas pedal with a control linkage on the throttle body via a cable. Pressing the pedal opens and closes a valve in the throttle body housing.

Newer throttle controllers are referred to as Electronic Throttle Control or ETC. Instead of using a cable, small computerized sensors relay information about the gas pedal position to ensure it is correct. This newer technology has helped improve fuel efficiency and increase engine performance.

Benefits of Electronic Throttle Control

The throttle control works with the acceleration pedal, Electronic Control Module (ECM), and a throttle body valve. It helps regulate fuel usage when the acceleration pedal is pressed. Lowered emissions and better engine operations are benefits of the ETC.

When the acceleration pedal is engaged the electronic throttle control informs the main ECM how much the pedal is pressed. The ECM is a computer that is like a brain for your car. Many sensors and components relay important vehicle operations to this computer. The electronic throttle control uses sensors to relay information to the ECM that can help determine changes or problems with fuel usage. This process can become faulty which can lead to mechanical or electrical issues.

Signs of a Faulty Electronic Throttle Control

It is important to troubleshoot a faulty throttle control as soon as possible to avoid issues. Fortunately, these days we don’t have to worry as much since most kinks have been worked out. There are some signs that can indicate that the electronic throttle control is bad. These signs include:

  • Less gas mileage – If you’ve purchased the wrong throttle control it will cause the amount of air can fluctuate in the throttle body. This can be problematic causing fuel economy to noticeably decrease. This is one of the most common problems of a bad throttle sensor.
  • Idling issues – Another common sign of poorly made electronic throttle control is sporadic idling. Your vehicle may stall or hesitate as well.
  • Indication light – Your dashboard has warning and service lights that activate when there are issues. A bad electronic throttle control will cause this light to come on.
  • Acceleration problems – Random acceleration can occur while driving. This can be a serious problem and your vehicle should be examined immediately in this rare case.

Benefits of New Electronic Throttle Control

The benefits of modern electronic throttle control definitely outweigh the older devices. Older systems were not as sensitive and they did not maximize fuel economy for this reason. An improvement in fuel economy is usually one of the first benefits noticed over the newer and older throttle controllers. The modern ETC can make subtle adjustments in fuel usage based on how you use the gas pedal. This can help save fuel in the long run. Something every car owner can agree on is a plus.

Another noticeable benefit of electronic throttle control is an increase in overall engine performance. This happens due to adjustments made by the ETC based on driving habits. How you use the acceleration pedal is a factor in this process. A smoother ride and better performance are often attributed to the ETC functions.

The Importance of Servicing Electronic Throttle Control

Make sure you decide on the quality, and a newer version of electronic throttle control to avoid any future problems. Your vehicle will not perform at its peak and it can be a safety issue if this problem is neglected. In addition to poorly operating and potentially unsafe drivability, other systems can be affected by faulty electronic throttle control.

Since every vehicle is different the cost of servicing the ETC can range from relatively inexpensive to somewhat costly. Luckily it is a fairly quick service so you can be back on the road quickly. It never hurts to regularly check your vehicle anyways.

Check out Launch Pad’s electronic throttle control – Available for all makes and models!

Electronic Throttle Control - Launch Pad - Engine

How To Tell If Your Electronic Throttle Control Works Properly

As your car ages, it’s important to keep an eye on all of its systems. This includes the electronic throttle control or ETC. The ETC is responsible for managing the amount of air that flows into the engine. It’s a vital part of the car’s overall performance, and if it isn’t working properly, it can lead to all sorts of problems, from electrical to mechanical.

How Does the Electronic Throttle Control Work?

To understand how the ETC works, it’s important to first understand the basics of how an engine works. The engine is basically a big air pump. It takes in air, mixes it with fuel, and then ignites it. This process creates a small explosion that drives the pistons inside the engine.

The amount of air that flows into the engine is controlled by the throttle. The throttle is like a valve that opens and closes to regulate the airflow. When you step on the gas pedal, you’re actually opening up the throttle so more air can flow into the engine. This extra air allows more fuel to be mixed in, which creates a bigger explosion and more power for your car.

The electronic throttle control is what manages the throttle. It’s a computer system that tells the throttle when to open and close based on input from sensors throughout the engine. These sensors track things like the amount of air flowing into the engine, the speed of the engine, and even the temperature inside the engine.

The ETC uses this information to adjust the throttle accordingly. If more power is needed, it will open up the throttle to allow more air in. If less power is needed, it will close the throttle to restrict airflow.

How To Install the Electronic Throttle Control and Know it is Correct

It is not easy to install the electronic throttle control. You need to know what you are doing, and it is best to leave this type of work to a professional. That being said, if you are going to attempt to install the ETC yourself, here are some tips:

  • Read the instructions carefully. The last thing you want to do is damage your car’s engine by installing the ETC incorrectly.
  • Make sure all of the sensors are properly connected. The ETC needs input from these sensors in order to function properly.
  • Pay attention to the wiring. Incorrectly wired sensors can cause all sorts of problems with the ETC.
  • Test the system before you put your car back on the road. This will help you catch any problems so you can fix them before they cause damage.

How to Tell if the Electronic Throttle Control is Going Bad

There are a few signs that indicate the ETC might be going bad. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to have the system checked out by a professional as soon as possible:

  1. Your car is having trouble starting. This could be caused by a number of things, but if you suspect the ETC, it’s worth getting it checked out.
  2. The engine is stalling or hesitating. This is another common symptom of a problem with the ETC.
  3. The engine is running rough. It may idle rough or have a rough take-off when pressing the accelerator.
  4. The check engine light is on. Have it checked through a diagnostic machine and see if the code matches the ETC.
  5. You’re experiencing strange shifting issues.

What To Look For When It Goes Bad

Fortunately, there are some easy ways to tell if your ETC is having issues. For example, if your car is idling erratically or feels like it’s hesitating when you step on the gas pedal, that’s a sign that something is wrong with the ETC. Other signs include decreased fuel economy and increased emissions.

If you notice any of these issues, the first thing you should do is check the ETC for any visible signs of damage. If there are any cracks or other damage, it will need to be replaced. Even if there doesn’t seem to be any physical damage, it’s still a good idea to have the ETC checked by a professional. They can run diagnostics to see if there are any underlying issues.

Double Check Yourself

If you find yourself having to change the ETC, the best thing is to do one thing at a time and remember where everything goes. Before you call the job finished, be sure to double-check your work.

Check out Launch Pad’s wide selection of electronic throttle control, available for all makes and models.

Electronic Throttle Control - Launch Pad - Cold Air Intake

What Can Cold Air Intakes Do for My Vehicle?

A cold air intake is a type of aftermarket car part used to improve an engine’s performance. It does this by providing a more efficient way for the engine to draw in air. Cold air intakes work by drawing in air from outside of the engine bay, which is cooler than the air inside the engine bay. This cooler air is then used by the engine, which makes it more efficient and powerful.

Cold Air Intake vs. Not Having One

Cold air intakes are designed to provide a more efficient way for your engine to draw in air. By drawing in cooler air from outside of the engine bay, the cold air intake can not only add power to your engine but it’s also designed to help things run more efficiently.

You may wonder if the vehicle does not have a cold air intake will it harm the engine? The simple answer is no, it will not hurt the motor or any other components. However, it may not be running at its optimal level.

Are Cold Air Intakes Limited to One Type of Engine?

Cold air intakes are not limited to just one type of engine; they can be used on any type of internal combustion engine. However, they work best on engines that are naturally aspirated or those that do not have a turbocharger or supercharger. This is because the colder air that is drawn in by the cold air intake can help to increase the power output of these types of engines.

The Benefits and Expectations of Installing a Cold Air Intake

There are a few benefits that come with installing a cold air intake. Along with the benefits, there are some added things you can expect when installing a cold air intake.

  • The cold air intake can improve the performance of your engine: the cold air intake can help to increase the power output of your engine.
  • It can improve fuel economy: colder air that is drawn in by the cold air intake can help to reduce the amount of fuel that is required by your engine.
  • You’ll save money on gas over time: up to a four to six-mile-per-gallon increase.
  • It can be installed relatively easily: it’s designed as a bolt-on modification, which means that it can be installed without having to make any significant changes to your vehicle.
  • You may also notice a change in the sound of your engine: due to the increased airflow that is being delivered to your engine, it might sound a bit more aggressive.

How to Install a Cold Air Intake

Installing a cold air intake is a relatively simple process, and it can be done at home with basic tools. However, it’s always best to consult with a professional before making any modifications to your vehicle.

  1. Remove the old air filter. To do this, locate the air filter box and remove the lid. Then, remove the old air filter and set it aside.
  2. Install the new air filter. To do this, simply place the new air filter into the air filter box and replace the lid.
  3. Install the cold air intake. To do this, follow the instructions that came with your cold air intake kit because each vehicle may be different.
  4. Remove the old air intake hose and replace it with the new one that is included in the kit.
  5. After the new air intake hose is in place, you’ll need to connect it to the cold air intake.
  6. Connect the air intake hose to the throttle body. Once the air intake hose is connected, you’ll need to reconnect the battery.
  7. Start your engine and let it idle for a few minutes. This will allow the engine to adjust to the new cold air intake.

If you notice any problems, such as a check engine light, consult with a professional. Otherwise, you’re all set and can enjoy the benefits of your new cold air intake.

Pair an Electronic Throttle Control or Performance Chip

Pairing a cold air intake with a performance chip or electronic throttle control can further improve the performance of your engine. A performance chip is a device that allows you to modify the way your engine runs. When paired with a cold air intake, a performance chip can help to increase the power output of your engine. It can also help to improve fuel economy.

Launch Pad offers electronic throttle control for any make/model vehicle, as well as a variety of cold air intakes for several makes – check out our selection now!

Electronic Throttle Control - Launch Pad - Throttle Controller

Upgrade Without the Upsells: Throttle Control, MPG & More

Advancements in the electronics field affect just about every part of our lives. From our phones to our TVs, it can feel like we’re always unsure if we should upgrade now, or wait for the next thing (and then, we still wonder if we should wait for the next next thing). Even our cars aren’t exempt from this kind of upgrade cycle. Luckily, you don’t always have to upgrade your car to take advantage of the latest features for things like throttle control.

Electronic Throttle Control - Launch Pad - Throttle ControlFrom Throttle Control to Better Miles Per Gallon

Digitizing throttle control is one of the easiest ways to experience the benefits of an upgraded vehicle without the hassle. No tools are needed to install–actually, it only takes about a minute–and the performance tuner loads motor-specific fuel maps to improve performance as a whole.

Increase horsepower

This is one of the most common reasons people modify their vehicles, whether with digital throttle control or a chip. Increasing horsepower unleashes a chain of effects, but they all add up to one thing: a higher-performing engine. Faster acceleration, a more efficient engine, and top end speed are all attainable.

Better fuel economy

An investment in tuning can actually pay off in more efficient fuel consumption. Using a performance chip for saving fuel can save literally thousands of dollars over a few years.

Higher torque

Hauling or pulling heavy things requires higher torque output, as does acceleration. Not to mention that, if we think of the vehicle as a system, more torque allows everything else to function more efficiently.

Quicker throttle response

Throttle control equals less motor strain as well as less fuel and more. They can make your vehicle more responsive to your cues, and provide you with performance enhancements without buying a new vehicle.

Our team can help you select the right chip for your vehicle and your needs. Or use our vehicle finder tool to view recommended options.

Plug It In and Go

The treadmill of electronic updates shows no signs of slowing down. Upgraded throttle control, better gas mileage, and more power shouldn’t require a new vehicle–and it doesn’t.

When you’re ready to enhance your vehicle performance, find your vehicle.

Make sure you install the easy plug-in and drive Launch Pad – electronic throttle control – for an entirely new driving experience!