January 17, 2026
On January 12th, Kaifei Racing Team—a top-tier Chinese racing team with over two decades of track expertise—joined hands with GAC Trumpchi to launch the Shadow Leopard R N1, an entry-level one-make race car.With a track record of competing in more than 400 domestic and international events spanning formula racing and touring car championships, and having nurtured numerous elite drivers, Kaifei Racing Team’s collaboration with GAC Trumpchi aims to lower the barriers to motorsport and popularize racing culture.Built on the foundation of the stock Shadow Leopard R, which boasts 265 horsepower straight from the factory, the new race car’s core upgrade lies in the integration of the EDDYSTAR Vortex Carbon Fiber Intake System. Leveraging the carbon fiber air box’s superior heat insulation and optimized air channel design to reduce resistance, this system enhances air intake efficiency and fuel combustion performance. Combined with track-tuned engine programming, it has helped the Shadow Leopard R N1 clock an impressive lap time of 1 minute 55 seconds at the Zhuhai Circuit—nearly 8 seconds faster than the stock model. Meanwhile, the system seamlessly integrates with the original vehicle architecture, supporting bolt-on installation that perfectly aligns with the philosophy of achieving high performance at a low cost for motorsport conversion.For the race car’s modification, Kaifei Racing Team invited a Macau Formula 3 champion to oversee the tuning process. The vehicle has been upgraded with high-performance coilover suspension to sharpen handling, and equipped with FIA-standard roll cages and six-point harnesses to ensure safety. This weekend, the Shadow Leopard R N1 will be piloted by the team’s drivers to compete in the Zhuhai Track Heroes 500km Endurance Race, igniting the motorsport dreams of enthusiasts with its accessible positioning.
