AEM Performance
ActiveOverview
AEM Performance Electronics manufactures and distributes control units and supporting electronics for internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicles (EV). It focuses on aftermarket performance parts, including air induction systems, gauges, wideband controllers, water/methanol injection systems, and EV performance controls. The company pivoted from induction and exhaust to electronics in 2009 and launched a dedicated EV division.
History
AEM Performance Electronics was founded in 1987 by John Concialdi and Bob Sullivan as a tuning and fabrication shop in Compton, California.123 It developed early air intake kits starting in 1994 and expanded into precision tuned induction systems.3 The company acquired DC Sports between 2003 and 2008, operated multiple facilities, and had around 300 employees across aftermarket and OEM divisions.2 In 2009, it sold its induction and exhaust business to focus on electronics, leading to new products like X-Series gauges and water/methanol systems.2 It later launched AEM EV for performance electric vehicle controls through partnerships.2
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Cold Air Intakes (air induction systems) | Performance air intake upgrades for ICE vehicles | $250 - $500 |
| X-Series Wideband UEGO (gauges and controllers) | Fastest wideband air/fuel monitoring | $150 - $300 |
| Water/Methanol Injection Systems | Boost cooling and power enhancement | $400 - $800 |
| Vehicle Dynamics Module (CAN sensors) | Data logging for suspension and dynamics | $300 - $600 |
| EV Performance Controls | Control solutions for electric vehicles | $500 - $1,500 |
| Alcohol Fuel Pumps | Compatible with high-ethanol fuels | $200 - $400 |
Manufacturing
Products are manufactured in Hawthorne, California, at the company's main facility.12 It previously operated additional manufacturing sites including one for DC Sports in Corona, California, until the 2009 pivot.2 Operations combine in-house production with distribution.1
Notable Products
- X-Series Wideband Gauge - Fastest wideband UEGO controller for air/fuel ratio monitoring.
- Cold Air Intake Kits - Early DIY upgrade kits starting with Honda CRX in 1994.
- Water/Methanol Injection Kit - System for power gains via charge cooling.
- Vehicle Dynamics Module - CAN-based sensor for vehicle dynamics data.
- AEM EV Controls - Performance electronics for electric vehicles.
Reputation
AEM is recognized by enthusiasts for innovative electronics like wideband gauges and water/methanol systems, with a heritage in air intakes.23 Professionals value its OEM-derived durability and validation in aftermarket products.2 Some note the 2009 sale of induction/exhaust lines as a shift, but the electronics focus has sustained its position.2 Employee reviews on platforms like Glassdoor provide mixed insights into workplace conditions.4
Sources (5)
- https://us.metoree.com/companies/209194/
- https://pitpad.com/2020/12/02/origins-the-history-of-aem-performance-electronics-and-its-name/
- https://www.aemintakes.com/about_aem.htm
- https://www.glassdoor.com/Overview/Working-at-AEM-Performance-Electronics-EI_IE1964474.11,38.htm
- https://www.zoominfo.com/c/aem-performance-electronics/344201447