Burton’s No. 31 Chevrolet to carry special Caterpillar Global Mining paint scheme
WELCOME, N.C. (November 10, 2011) — For NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Jeff Burton and the No. 31 Richard Childress Racing team, the Nov. 13 race at Phoenix International Raceway will be “Mining Day at the Races,” with more than 200 Caterpillar Inc. mining customers and dealers in attendance.
Designed to appear as though it’s mining gold, copper and silver, Burton’s No. 31 Chevrolet will be a tribute to the mining industry, carrying a special paint scheme to honor the new theme for the Caterpillar Global Mining organization: “Wherever There’s Mining.” With its recent acquisition of Bucyrus International, Inc., Caterpillar now offers more mining equipment than any other manufacturer in the world.
“Mined materials are found in virtually everything we use in our everyday lives – like steel, glass, concrete, oil, plastics and electricity,” says Chris Curfman, President of the Caterpillar Global Mining Sales & Support Division. “Without them we couldn’t build machines, transport goods, or heat and cool our homes.”
A growing population and drive for modernization and urbanization are increasing the demand for minerals – making mining more important than at any other time in history. “Caterpillar has long been a supporter of this critical industry,” says Curfman. “And our expanded product line gives us more than 100 new pieces of equipment to better serve our customers in this booming market.”
Caterpillar customers are traveling from around the world to attend the race at Phoenix International Raceway, some from as far away as China, Latin America and Australia. For many it is their first time attending a NASCAR event.
“We’re excited that our affiliation with NASCAR gives us an opportunity to do something unique to recognize our mining customers and dealers,” says Tony Johnson, Marketing Manager.
Many of the customers in attendance will be hosted by Cat dealers. The global Cat dealer network is a one-of-a-kind distribution and support system that is a key differentiator for Caterpillar.
“Our dealers are our face to the customer and our partners in providing the products and services they need to mine safely and efficiently,” says Phil Kelliher, Mining General Manager with responsibility for North America.
For more information on the Caterpillar products and services for mining, visit Mining.cat.com.
