The APR Wheels Advantage
APR (Automotive Performance Racing) has established itself as a premier name in the high-performance automotive aftermarket, particularly within the European car community. While widely recognized for their comprehensive performance upgrades including ECU tuning, exhaust systems, and intake solutions, APR's wheel lineup represents a significant component of their performance-enhancing product range. APR wheels are designed with the same engineering-focused approach that defines all their products—prioritizing genuine performance improvements over merely aesthetic enhancements.
What distinguishes APR in the competitive wheel market is their commitment to track-validated design and engineering. Unlike many wheel manufacturers who focus primarily on style, APR develops wheels through a rigorous process that includes finite element analysis, extensive track testing, and direct collaboration with professional racing teams. This approach ensures that every APR wheel delivers tangible benefits in terms of reduced unsprung weight, improved strength, and enhanced vehicle dynamics that can be measured both on the track and in everyday driving scenarios.
APR Wheels Collections
APR Performance Series
The Performance Series represents APR's core wheel collection, designed for enthusiasts seeking a perfect balance between street drivability and track capability. Standout models include the APR A01 featuring a lightweight flow-formed construction with a clean multi-spoke design, the APR S01 with its distinctive Y-spoke pattern optimized for brake cooling, and the popular APR EC-7 showcasing a motorsport-inspired split-spoke configuration that has become iconic among European car enthusiasts. These wheels typically range from 17" to 20" in diameter with various widths to accommodate different vehicle platforms. The Performance Series is particularly popular among daily-driven performance cars where owners want meaningful performance improvements without compromising everyday usability.
APR Forged Series
For those demanding the ultimate in lightweight performance, the Forged Series offers APR's premium wheel options. Models like the APR GTS with its motorsport-derived design featuring I-beam spokes for maximum strength-to-weight ratio, the APR FS01 utilizing advanced forging techniques to create complex spoke geometries while minimizing mass, and the track-focused APR TRK showcase the pinnacle of APR's wheel engineering. These wheels are manufactured using sophisticated forging processes that align the aluminum's grain structure for exceptional strength while allowing for significant material reduction compared to cast or flow-formed alternatives. The Forged Series appeals to track day enthusiasts, competitive drivers, and those who simply demand the absolute best performance from their vehicles without compromise.
APR Competition Series
Developed specifically for racing applications but approved for street use, the Competition Series features designs proven in professional motorsport. Popular models include the APR CP01 with its minimalist spoke design prioritizing absolute weight reduction, the APR RS which incorporates aerodynamic considerations to enhance cooling and reduce turbulence, and the APR GT with center-lock options for race applications. These wheels undergo the most rigorous testing in APR's development process, including extended endurance racing simulations and impact resistance verification beyond what street wheels typically experience. The Competition Series finds favor among dedicated track enthusiasts, weekend racers, and those building dual-purpose vehicles that see significant circuit use while remaining street legal.
APR Heritage Series
Honoring the rich racing heritage that inspires all APR products, the Heritage Series offers modern interpretations of classic motorsport wheel designs. Models like the APR Classic with its timeless five-spoke pattern reminiscent of iconic DTM race cars, the APR Vintage featuring a mesh design that recalls European touring car competition of the 1980s and 1990s, and the APR Rally drawing inspiration from Group B rally wheels provide options that blend nostalgic styling with contemporary performance. These wheels utilize modern manufacturing techniques and materials while maintaining aesthetic connections to motorsport history, making them particularly appealing to enthusiasts of classic European marques and those seeking a more timeless appearance for their modern vehicles.
APR Wheels Technology and Construction
APR employs several advanced manufacturing technologies to create wheels that deliver genuine performance benefits:
- Flow Forming Technology: Many APR wheels utilize flow forming, an advanced manufacturing process where the barrel portion of an initially cast wheel is mechanically spun and formed under pressure, creating a stronger, lighter structure similar to forged wheels but at a more accessible price point.
- Full Forging Process: APR's premium wheels are created through multi-stage forging that applies massive pressure to aluminum billets, aligning the metal's grain structure for superior strength-to-weight ratios compared to cast or flow-formed alternatives.
- Proprietary Alloy Formulations: APR works with specialized aluminum alloys developed specifically for performance wheels, with compositions that balance strength, weight, and fatigue resistance for optimal long-term durability.
- Advanced Machining Techniques: After the initial forming process, APR wheels undergo precision CNC machining to create complex spoke geometries, pocket milling for weight reduction, and exact dimensional specifications crucial for high-performance applications.
- Comprehensive Testing Protocols: Every APR wheel design undergoes extensive validation including finite element analysis, dynamic cornering fatigue testing, impact resistance verification, and real-world track testing to ensure performance under the most demanding conditions.
Choosing the Right APR Wheels
When selecting APR wheels for your vehicle, consider these important factors:
- Vehicle Platform: APR designs wheels with specific vehicle applications in mind, with fitments optimized for European platforms including Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, as well as select Japanese performance vehicles. Check APR's fitment guides to ensure compatibility with your specific model.
- Performance Goals: Be honest about how you use your vehicle. Daily drivers with occasional spirited driving may benefit most from the flow-formed Performance Series, while dedicated track cars would maximize the advantages of the lightweight Forged Series.
- Weight Considerations: One of the primary performance benefits of APR wheels is weight reduction, which improves acceleration, braking, and handling. Consider the weight savings compared to your factory wheels when evaluating the performance return on your investment.
- Brake Compatibility: Many performance vehicles feature large brake packages that require wheels with specific clearance profiles. APR designs their wheels with these considerations in mind, but verification is essential, particularly for vehicles with aftermarket brake upgrades.
- Aesthetic Integration: While performance is the primary focus of APR wheels, aesthetics remain important. Select designs that complement your vehicle's character and other modifications for a cohesive overall appearance.
Key Takeaways About APR Wheels
- APR approaches wheel design with a focus on measurable performance improvements rather than styling alone, resulting in products that enhance vehicle dynamics through reduced unsprung weight and optimized engineering.
- All APR wheels undergo extensive testing including computer simulation, laboratory validation, and real-world track testing to ensure they deliver on their performance promises.
- The manufacturing techniques employed—including flow forming and forging—create wheels with superior strength-to-weight ratios compared to conventional cast wheels commonly found on production vehicles.
- APR's wheel lineup includes options suited to various performance levels and usage profiles, from daily-driven street cars to dedicated track vehicles and competition applications.
- While representing a premium investment, APR wheels deliver tangible performance benefits that complement other vehicle modifications and contribute to a more engaging, responsive driving experience.
Ready to enhance your vehicle's performance with lightweight, track-proven wheels? APR Wheels are available with professional mounting and balancing services to ensure proper fitment and optimal performance for your European or import performance vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions About APR Wheels
Are APR wheels worth the investment compared to less expensive alternatives?
APR wheels represent a premium investment that delivers measurable performance benefits beyond aesthetics. The advanced manufacturing processes, engineering development, and comprehensive testing result in wheels that genuinely improve vehicle dynamics through reduced unsprung weight and rotational mass. This weight reduction enhances acceleration, braking, and handling response in ways that can be felt by drivers, particularly during spirited driving. Additionally, APR's focus on strength and durability means their wheels typically maintain structural integrity better than less expensive alternatives, potentially offering better long-term value despite the higher initial cost.
What vehicles are APR wheels designed for?
APR wheels are primarily designed for European performance vehicles, with specific fitments for Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz models. They also offer applications for select Japanese performance platforms including Subaru, Mitsubishi, and others. APR's wheel engineering takes into account the specific requirements of these vehicles, including bolt patterns, center bore dimensions, load ratings, and brake clearance needs. This focused approach ensures optimal fitment and performance for these platforms rather than attempting to create universal designs that make compromises across different vehicle types.
What is the difference between APR's flow-formed and forged wheels?
The primary differences involve manufacturing process, weight, strength, and price point. APR's flow-formed wheels start as a cast wheel that undergoes additional processing where the barrel is mechanically spun under pressure, creating a stronger structure with properties similar to forged wheels but at a more moderate price. These typically offer 15-20% weight reduction compared to factory wheels. APR's forged wheels are created by applying massive pressure to solid aluminum billets, aligning the metal's grain structure throughout the entire wheel. This results in maximum strength with minimum weight, typically 25-30% lighter than factory equivalents, but at a higher price point reflecting the more intensive manufacturing process.
Can APR wheels be used in winter conditions or with snow tires?
While APR wheels are designed primarily for performance applications, many models from their Performance Series are suitable for year-round use, including winter conditions when paired with appropriate tires. The flow-formed construction provides good durability against winter hazards like potholes and road salt. However, for severe winter climates, consider selecting more conservative sizing (avoiding extremely low-profile tires) and be particularly diligent about cleaning the wheels regularly to prevent corrosion from road salt and chemicals. APR's competition-focused or ultra-lightweight forged wheels are generally better reserved for seasonal use rather than winter driving.
Do APR wheels require special lug bolts or lug nuts?
Most APR wheels are designed to work with OEM-style lug bolts or lug nuts, maintaining compatibility with factory hardware. However, the specific requirements can vary depending on the wheel model and vehicle application. APR typically provides detailed specifications regarding required bolt or nut type, seat style (conical, ball, etc.), and thread pitch for each wheel and vehicle combination. For optimal safety and performance, it's recommended to use high-quality hardware that meets or exceeds OEM specifications, and to follow proper torque specifications during installation.
Do APR wheels come with a warranty?
Yes, APR typically provides a limited structural warranty against manufacturing defects under normal use conditions, reflecting their confidence in their products' quality and durability. The specific warranty terms and duration may vary by region and distributor, so it's advisable to verify the details at the time of purchase. It's worth noting that APR's warranty coverage generally includes consideration for performance driving scenarios like track days (excluding competitive racing), which is less common among wheel manufacturers and demonstrates their commitment to supporting enthusiasts who use their vehicles as intended.