APR Presents All-New Racing Rod Technology: VCRRR

Opelika, AL – APR, the world leader in performance aftermarket modifications for Volkswagen Auto Group (VAG) vehicles, has announced a revolutionary advancement in engine technology: the Variable Compression Rubber Racing Rod, or VCRRR for short. This innovation challenges conventional norms in engine internals and offers a performance solution typically reserved for far more complex, and expensive, systems.

At the core of the system are connecting rods made entirely from rubber. While conventional wisdom may scoff at the idea due to the material’s, shall we say, flexible nature, the real-world benefits are substantial.

“First, while some may call rubber ‘floppy,’ it’s also stretchy,” explains lead engineer Dr. Hans Gummmacher, a fifth-generation rubber maker from Germany. “That stretch has benefits that are easy to see. Many Japanese automakers have explored variable compression rod technology using intricate mechanical systems. VCRRR simply… stretches.”

As RPM increases, the piston acts like a weight, elongating the rod and pulling it further into the combustion chamber, thus increasing the engine’s compression ratio, and, as a result, horsepower.

Dr. Gummmacher, who entered the automotive world as a teen, credits the concept to a childhood paddleball toy. “It just made sense when I say playing with my Einhandgummiballrückschlagspielzeuggerät, or paddleball toy as some of you say in America. The ball and cord stretches, takes impact well, flexes, and bounces.”

Beyond variable compression, the rubber construction offers a secondary benefit: resilience under load.

“As compression and torque increase, traditional rods can buckle or fail under extreme conditions. Pistons are often damaged due to knock because they’re tied to a solid, inflexible rod,” he explained. “Our rods flex instead of failing. During the power stroke, the elastic energy actually assists the downward force, slinging the piston back down with greater velocity. It’s sort of like a slingshot… or Gummibandpistonenrückschleudergerät as we say in German.”

The material itself is derived from Guayule, a desert shrub harvested in the United States. It offers excellent elasticity and thermal resistance, while also being cost-effective and renewable — aligning with APR’s commitment to sustainable performance.

The only noted side effect? A change in engine acoustics.

“Most automotive enthusiasts actually enjoy the sound,” said Gummmacher. “We simply say they’re… boingy.”

The APR VCRRR is currently undergoing long-term beta testing in engines around the world. Initial reports are promising. Full production is expected to begin in Q5 of 2025.