Who is akira nakai

Overview

Akira Nakai is a legendary figure in the global automotive customization scene, best known as the founder and master craftsman behind RAUH-Welt BEGRIFF (RWB). Born in Japan, Nakai-san began his automotive journey in the drifting scene during the 1990s before transitioning to Porsche customization. His company name, which translates to "Rough World Concept" in German, reflects his philosophy of creating raw, aggressive vehicles that blend Japanese craftsmanship with German engineering.

Nakai founded RWB in 1997 in Chiba, Japan, initially working on various Japanese sports cars before focusing exclusively on Porsche 911 models. His breakthrough came in the early 2000s when he developed his signature wide-body kits for air-cooled 911s (models 930, 964, and 993). The turning point for international recognition was his 2008 Tokyo Auto Salon debut, where his dramatically modified Porsches captured global attention from automotive enthusiasts and media alike.

What sets Nakai apart is his hands-on approach – he personally travels worldwide to build each RWB Porsche on-site, creating a unique connection with each client and their vehicle. This personal touch, combined with his distinctive aesthetic that features extreme wide-body modifications, bold riveted fenders, and aggressive stances, has made RWB one of the most recognizable and sought-after Porsche customization brands globally. His work represents a fusion of Japanese kaizen (continuous improvement) philosophy with German precision engineering.

How It Works

The RWB transformation process is a meticulous, hands-on procedure that Nakai-san personally oversees for every build.

• Client Consultation and Model Selection: Each RWB build begins with Nakai consulting directly with the client to understand their vision. He primarily works on air-cooled Porsche 911 models including the 930 (1975-1989), 964 (1989-1994), and 993 (1994-1998). The client provides a mechanically sound base vehicle, as Nakai focuses exclusively on body modifications and aesthetics rather than mechanical upgrades.
• Hand-Cut Wide-Body Installation: Nakai's signature technique involves hand-cutting the original Porsche body to accommodate 3-5 inch wider fenders. Using specialized tools, he precisely cuts the factory metal before welding on custom-fabricated wide-body panels. Each kit includes front and rear over-fenders, side skirts, and a distinctive front lip spoiler, all designed to create the aggressive, planted stance RWB is famous for.
• Riveted Construction Method: Unlike traditional body kits that use adhesive or hidden fasteners, Nakai employs exposed rivets to secure the wide-body panels. This industrial aesthetic has become an RWB trademark, with each build featuring approximately 80-100 visible rivets. The rivets are both functional and decorative, emphasizing the raw, mechanical nature of the transformation.
• On-Site Personal Building: Nakai travels to the client's location worldwide, typically spending 5-7 days on each build. He brings his specialized tools and works in the client's garage or local shop, creating a unique experience where owners can witness their Porsche's transformation firsthand. This personal approach has built a loyal global community of RWB owners.

The complete transformation costs $25,000-$50,000 for the body kit and installation alone, not including the base Porsche vehicle or additional modifications. Nakai typically completes 50-70 builds annually worldwide, maintaining strict quality control through his personal involvement in every project. Each RWB Porsche receives a unique name chosen by the owner, which Nakai hand-paints on the rear quarter panel as a final touch.

Types / Categories / Comparisons

RWB specializes in several distinct Porsche 911 models, each with unique characteristics that influence the final build.

The Porsche 964 represents Nakai's most popular platform, accounting for roughly 50% of all RWB builds due to its balanced proportions and availability. The 930, being the original turbocharged 911, appeals to purists seeking a classic foundation, while the 993 attracts enthusiasts wanting the last air-cooled Porsche with more modern refinements. Each model requires slightly different fabrication techniques – the 964 and 993 have more complex body lines that Nakai must carefully integrate with his wide-body designs, while the 930's simpler curves allow for more dramatic transformations. Market values for completed RWB builds typically double or triple the base Porsche's worth, with exceptional examples selling for $200,000-$400,000 at auction.

Real-World Applications / Examples

• Stance Nation and Car Culture: Nakai's work has significantly influenced the global stance car movement, particularly the pursuit of extreme fitment and aggressive aesthetics. His builds regularly feature at major automotive events worldwide, including the Tokyo Auto Salon (where he debuted in 2008), SEMA Show in Las Vegas, and Goodwood Festival of Speed. RWB Porsches have been featured in over 50 automotive publications and numerous YouTube channels with millions of subscribers, spreading Nakai's design philosophy globally.
• Collector Market Impact: RWB Porsches have become serious collector items, with values appreciating significantly. For example, "Stella Artois," a 1990 Porsche 964 RWB build completed in 2012, sold for $285,000 at auction in 2019 – nearly triple its pre-RWB value. The limited production (50-70 builds annually) and Nakai's personal involvement create scarcity that drives values upward, with some investors specifically purchasing Porsche 911s as RWB conversion candidates.
• Global Community Building: Nakai has fostered an international community of approximately 1,000 RWB owners across 30+ countries. Annual RWB-specific events like "RWB World Meet" in Japan and regional gatherings in the US, Europe, and Asia draw hundreds of participants. This community extends beyond owners to include thousands of enthusiasts who follow Nakai's work through social media, where he has over 500,000 followers across platforms documenting his builds and travels.

The cultural impact extends beyond automotive circles into fashion and art collaborations. Nakai has partnered with brands like BAPE, Supreme, and Porsche Design on limited edition merchandise and art installations. His distinctive aesthetic has influenced automotive designers at major manufacturers, with elements of the RWB style appearing in concept cars and aftermarket products. Educational institutions including automotive design schools now study Nakai's work as an example of successful brand building through craftsmanship and personal connection.

Why It Matters

Akira Nakai's significance extends far beyond custom Porsche builds. He represents a bridge between traditional craftsmanship and modern car culture, demonstrating that in an era of mass production and digital design, there remains immense value in hands-on artistry. His work has preserved and celebrated air-cooled Porsche 911s that might otherwise be overlooked, creating a new market for these classic vehicles. Nakai's international travels to build cars personally have fostered cross-cultural connections in the automotive world, bringing together enthusiasts from Japan, North America, Europe, and beyond.

The economic impact of RWB is substantial within the classic Porsche ecosystem. By creating high-value modifications, Nakai has increased demand for specific 911 models, supporting a network of Porsche specialists, parts suppliers, and restoration shops worldwide. His success has inspired a new generation of customizers to pursue specialized niches rather than generic modifications. The RWB business model – combining limited production, personal service, and global accessibility – has become a template for other high-end automotive customization businesses.

Looking forward, Nakai's legacy is secure as both an artist and entrepreneur. As electric vehicles transform the automotive landscape, his work with internal combustion classics represents an important preservation of automotive history and culture. Future trends may see RWB expanding into newer Porsche models or limited production collaborations with manufacturers. Regardless of direction, Nakai's core philosophy of personal craftsmanship and emotional connection between builder, owner, and machine will continue influencing automotive culture for decades, ensuring that the human touch remains essential in an increasingly automated world.