Fig. 1, Piston Graphics Subaru STI, 2014. Photo by Woongsoo Lee
Piston Graphics was a custom vehicle graphic design company operated by Wonbin Yang from 2013 to 2014 in Illinois. The company focused on developing graphic identities for performance vehicles, combining livery design, material application, and visual system planning within automotive contexts.
During this period, Piston Graphics produced a project vehicle based on a Subaru STI featuring a custom-designed livery. The car functioned as both a commercial showcase and an experimental platform for testing visual concepts in motion. It was presented at automotive events such as Tuner Galleria and Offset Kings, in collaboration with Blood Type Racing.
In parallel with the company’s activities, Yang contributed concept design renderings to Blood Type Racing’s SEMA projects between 2014 and 2021. This work reflects an intersection of design, systems thinking, and visual experimentation that continues to inform Yang’s broader artistic projects.
Fig. 2, Piston Graphics Subaru STI, 2014. Grahpics on the hood, detail.
The graphics on the project Subaru STI depict internal car components, including the turbocharger, air intake, pistons, and coilovers, rendered as if they are visible through the vehicle’s body. These illustrated parts are emphasized through vivid colors, creating a strong visual contrast between the exterior surface and the mechanical systems it contains.
The graphics were produced using router-cut vinyl and applied through a hand-layering process. This method foregrounds craftsmanship and material precision, with the layered construction contributing to depth, texture, and clarity in the final composition. The result emphasizes both the mechanical identity of the vehicle and the careful translation of internal structures into exterior form.
Fig. 3, Piston Graphics Subaru STI, 2014. Passenger side grahpics detail.
Tuner Galleria 2014
Fig. 4, Piston Graphics Subaru STI at Tuner Galleria 2014. Venue: The Donald E. Stephens convention center in Rosemont, IL.
Tuner Galleria 2014 was the first car show in which Piston Graphics participated in collaboration with Blood Type Racing. Below is the original concept description developed for the exhibition vehicle presented at the show.
2014 Subaru Impreza WRX STi Sedan Shop Car i "Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde"
This project car is named "Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde" since the car has two completely opposite design concepts. One side with fluorescent orange wheels and extensive graphic work can be referred to as the Mr. Hyde side as it is the "crazy" side of the vehicle. It is flashy, eye catching and can be seen as bit over the edge but unique. The opposite side with black wheels is the Dr. Jekyll side. The vehicle's design on this side is simple, clean and street car like. Keep in mind, both sides of the vehicle has the same wheels (different colors), same drop in height, same exhaust tips, etc. This car is a great example of how graphics and color schemes change the appearance of the vehicle so drastically to a point where the vehicle seems like two different vehicles. This car is the prime example of what Piston Graphics and BTR can accomplish for your vehicle. Would you choose to be Dr. Jekyll or Mr. Hyde?
Modifications
- Cobb Tuning Subaru SF Intake
- Cobb Tuning Subaru SF Airbox
- Invidia Performance Q300 Exhaust with Titanium Tips
- BC Racing BR Series Coilovers
- Rays Engineering Gram Lights 57DR Wheels
- Rays Engineering Volk Formula Lug Nuts
- Powder-coated wheels (Fluorescent Orange / Gloss Black)
- Seibon CW-Style Carbon Fiber Hood
- APR Performance Front Air Dam
- Schroth Rallye 3-point Harnesses
- STi Short Throw Shifter
- Custom Graphics by Piston Graphics
Fig. 5, Piston Graphics Subaru STI at Tuner Galleria 2014. Rear exhibition view.
Fig. 6, Piston Graphics Subaru STI at Tuner Galleria 2014. Passenger side exhibition view.
Fig. 7, Blood Type Racing Genesis Coupe at Tuner Galleria 2014. Vehicle livery prepared and installed by Piston Graphics.
Offset Kings Chicago 2014
Fig. 8, Piston Graphics Subaru STI at Offset Kings Chicago 2014 by Fatlace with the new passenger side graphics.
Fig. 9, Blood Type Racing Genesis Coupe at Offset Kings Chicago 2014 by Fatlace.
Fig. 10, Piston Graphics receiving an award (3rd Subaru) at Offset Kings Chicago 2014 by Fatlace, Wonbin holding the trophy (left) with other recipients. Photo by Greg Szoda and JDM Chicago.
Fig. 11. Video documentation of Offset Kings Chicago, 2014. Produced by Blood Type Racing and Actioncam Media.
CHI Town Tuner & TIC Car Show 2014
Fig. 12, Piston Graphics Subaru STI at CHI Town Tuner & TIC Car Show 2014.
Fig. 13, Piston Graphics Subaru STI at CHI Town Tuner & TIC Car Show 2014.
Acknowledgements & Thanks
With deep gratitude to Blood Type Racing for their generous collaboration and support.