High-performance engine pioneer Stuart Hilborn dies at 96

Stuart Hilborn, renowned for his high-performance automotive fuel-injection systems, passed away Monday at the age of 96.

A native of Calgary, Alberta, Hilborn moved to Southern California as a child and got involved with the burgeoning hot rod culture in the late 1930s. After World War II, he was a pioneer of mechanical fuel injection systems, which he tested on his own racecars. Their success led to them becoming adopted by pro racers. From 1949, Hilborn-injection systems equipped many top cars at Indianapolis.

Hilborn was inducted into the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Hall of Fame as well as the Speed Parts Hall of Fame. The company he founded continues to develop and sell performance products including mechanical and electronic fuel injection systems.