Sung Kang Returns with “Drifter” Film, Featuring V8-Powered “Lola” Toyota AE86 and Electric Lexus AE86 Concept
Actor and filmmaker Sung Kang, renowned as Han Lue in Fast and Furious, is back with his new film “Drifter,” which centers around a custom-built 1986 Toyota Corolla GTS named ‘Lola.’ This iconic AE86 has been transformed into a Rocket Bunny widebody drift machine, powered by an unexpected Chevrolet LS3 V8 engine for reliability and torque during stunt sequences. The film’s narrative of evolution and reinvention is mirrored in the car’s build and further emphasized by the simultaneous reveal of a Lexus AE86 BEV Concept – an electric reinterpretation with a manual transmission. “Drifter” promises a heartfelt story about rediscovering hope and community through car culture and motorsport, featuring real-world drift talent and intricate action sequences.
Sung Kang’s “Drifter” and the Hero Car ‘Lola’
Sung Kang’s new film project, “Drifter,” brings him back to the world of high-performance cars with a unique centerpiece.
- Film: “Drifter” is an upcoming feature film blending motorsport realism with a heartfelt story.
- Hero Car: The film’s centerpiece is a fully built 1986 Toyota Corolla GTS named ‘Lola.’
- Homage: ‘Lola’ pays homage to the iconic AE86 (Hachiroku) platform, a staple in drift culture.
- Aesthetics: It’s transformed into a Rocket Bunny, widebody drift car, combining classic JDM aesthetics with modern engineering.
‘Lola’s’ Unique Powertrain and Capabilities
The choice of engine for ‘Lola’ is a deliberate one, prioritizing performance and practicality for filmmaking.
- Engine Swap: The original 4A-GE engine has been replaced with a Chevrolet LS3 V8, the same powerplant used in late-model Corvettes and Camaros.
- Rationale: This “unexpected but deliberate choice” prioritizes reliability and torque for the film’s demanding stunt sequences and “delivers the consistency needed for long shooting days and complex drift choreography.”
- Drivetrain: The build includes a GForce GSR gearbox and a Supra/Celica rear end.
- Suspension: Features KW coilovers with T3 links for precision drifting.
- Partnerships: Parts and technical support came from prominent tuning brands like Yokohama Tires, Watanabe Wheels, Pandem Rocket Bunny, and Sparco.
- Capability: The result is a car that is “mechanically capable of performing every stunt audiences will see on screen.”
Evolution and Innovation: The Lexus AE86 BEV Concept
The film’s theme of evolution is extended to the accompanying reveal of an electric concept.
- Electric Counterpart: Alongside ‘Lola,’ the Lexus AE86 BEV Concept was showcased.
- Powertrain: This experimental electric reinterpretation uses a Tundra Hybrid i-Force Max electric motor and an NX 450h+ battery pack.
- Unique Feature: Remarkably, it features a manual transmission that can simulate clutch engagement and even stalling.
- Balance: Lexus retained the lightweight balance and handling of the original AE86.
- Symbolism: Seeing the analog, V8-powered Lola and the all-electric BEV prototype side by side captures a moment where “tradition and innovation coexist.”
Film’s Vision and Production Team
“Drifter” promises a grounded narrative supported by top-tier talent.
- Story: “Drifter” tells the story of a man who rediscovers hope and purpose through the car community, using motorsport as a metaphor.
- Direction: It marks a “more personal and grounded direction for Sung Kang as both actor and director,” drawing comparisons to, but distinguishing itself from, Tokyo Drift.
- Production: The team includes Brian Scotto of Hoonigan overseeing action sequences.
- Stunt Driving: Professional drift driver Dai Yoshihara serves as the principal stunt driver.
- Cameos: Real-world drifters Adam LZ, Chelsea DeNofa, and Ryan Tuerck are confirmed to appear.
- Message: The film is described as a “love letter to the global drift community,” emphasizing shared passion, connection, and second chances.
Final Thoughts
Sung Kang’s “Drifter” project is shaping up to be more than just another car film; it’s a poignant exploration of car culture’s power to inspire and rebuild, anchored by an iconic Toyota AE86. The decision to equip ‘Lola’ with an LS3 V8, while potentially controversial for purists, serves both practical filmmaking needs and the film’s deeper narrative of reinvention. The concurrent reveal of an electric AE86 concept further highlights the evolving dialogue between automotive tradition and innovation. With a blend of authentic motorsport action, a heartfelt story, and a truly unique hero car, “Drifter” is poised to resonate deeply with enthusiasts and potentially become a new classic in the genre.
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