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Interstate All Battery Center Racing: Ty Gibbs Charlotte Roval Advance

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Official Release
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Ty Gibbs
Charlotte Roval Advance
No. 54 Interstate All Battery Center Toyota Camry TRD for Joe Gibbs Racing

Event Overview

● Event: Bank of America Roval 400 (Round 32 of 36)

● Time/Date: 2 p.m. EDT on Sunday, Oct. 8

● Location: Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway Roval

● Layout: 2.28-mile, 17-turn road course

● Laps/Miles: 109 laps, 252.88 miles

● Format: Stage 1: 25 laps / Stage 2: 25 laps / Final Stage: 59 laps

● TV/Radio: NBC / PRN / SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Notes of Interest

● Interstate Batteries – one of the most tenured team sponsors in NASCAR history – began its 32nd season as the founding sponsor of Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) with an expanded presence that featured the brand’s iconic green livery across all four of JGR’s NASCAR Cup Series entries. As the green colors will adorn Ty Gibbs’ car one final time for 2003 this weekend on the Charlotte Roval with the Interstate All Battery Center marks on the car, the final race for Interstate Batteries will be in the penultimate race of the season at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway when Christopher Bell drives with the Interstate colors one final time this season on his No. 20 Camry.

● The Return of ‘ABC’: Gibbs and Company are ready to roll into Charlotte with support from Interstate All Battery Center retail locations throughout North America. Interstate All Battery Center keeps life and business moving with the best batteries, service, and expertise. They make it easy to find the battery you’re looking for, from auto batteries to button batteries and specialty batteries to chargers, flashlights and more. And every center offers FREE auto battery testing at their location. Having a local battery partner also means just-in-time delivery, so you can receive fresh batteries ready to go. Interstate All Battery Center will be displayed on a Cup Series car for the first time since July 2017 when former JGR driver Kyle Busch raced the All Battery Center scheme at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway.

● Outrageously Dependable: With Gibbs behind the wheel of the Interstate All Battery Center Camry this weekend, fans are encouraged to stop in to one of many local centers, which feature any battery and power accessory needs all in one place for both your home and business. Interstate All Battery Center is a local partner committed to you and your community, recycle more car batteries than they sell and have on-site auto battery testing and installation with no appointments. To learn more, fans can visit https://www.interstatebatteries.com/all-battery-centers to find a store nearby.

● Gibbs has had a strong rookie campaign. He’s earned season-best finishes of fifth on three occasions – at Pocono (Pa.) Raceway in July, Watkins Glen (N.Y.) International in August, and Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway in September. In all, Gibbs has eight eight top-10s so far in 2023 with five races remaining.

● Gibbs heads to the Charlotte Roval 19th in the driver standings with 655 points. He leads the Rookie of the Year standings with his next-closest competitor Noah Gragson not expected to compete for the remainder of the season.

● Rookie Stripe: Gibbs has experienced a season not atypical of a rookie driver in NASCAR’s top series. He has three top-fives and eight top-10s so far through 31 races, but many other strong runs that didn’t yield the results he might have deserved during the most recent stretch of races.

● At the age of 19 years, 9 months and 20 days, Gibbs made his first career NASCAR Cup Series start last July 24 at Pocono for 23XI Racing. He became the 37th driver younger than 20 years of age to make a Cup Series start. He started at the rear of the field but completed all 160 laps on his way to an impressive 16th-place finish. Best of his 15 Cup Series starts last year was his 10th-place result Aug. 7 at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn.

● Dazzling Debut: Gibbs was victorious in his NASCAR Xfinity Series debut in the February 2021 race on the Daytona road course. He led 14 of the 56 laps and became the youngest driver to win an Xfinity Series road-course race at 18 years, 4 months and 16 days. The native of Charlotte, North Carolina, also became the second-youngest winner in Xfinity Series history behind Joey Logano, who won in June 2008 at Kentucky Speedway in Sparta at the age of 18 years, 21 days.

Ty Gibbs, Driver of the No. 54 Interstate All Battery Center Toyota Camry TRD

You’ve had some time to get used to each track during your rookie season. How much have you learned over the course of the year?

“It’s been good. The whole season has been special, and I learn each and every week. Just got to get my Interstate All Battery Center Toyota Camry in a good position and try to limit our mistakes as much as possible and get the most points we can each and every week. First of all, you just need to enjoy it. Not a lot of guys get to do what we get to do each week and you have to remind yourself of the bigger picture. You just take it week by week and keep working. I’m looking forward to the Roval, which will be the next challenge. I’m really looking forward to the next couple of races and we’ll keep working at it and try to work as hard as we can.”

You’ve raced on the Roval in the Xfinity Series, and last year in the Cup Series with 23XI. What are your expectations for this weekend?

“Excited about the Roval. I do enjoy road-course racing, plus it is a home race, which will be nice. Good to have Interstate Batteries on the car for the final time this year. Norm (Miller, Chairman Emeritus) has been a longtime family friend, and Lain (Hancock, CEO/President) had been great, too. Also, fun to have Interstate All Battery Center on our car this weekend. They have local centers throughout the country with every type of battery that anyone could need. Hopefully we can give them a great run.”

With Interstate Batteries on your car for the final time during your rookie season, has it been fun to have Interstate Batteries along with you several times this year?

“It’s really an honor to be able to run an Interstate Batteries car every time we’ve been able to do it. We had some good runs for them, and others I wished had turned out a bit better. We were able to get a top-10 for them at Bristol Dirt and at the Chicago Street Race, which was really cool. I thought we had a good shot at another top-10 for them at Nashville, but that didn’t end up how we had hoped there on the last pit stop and run of the race. Really proud of what we’ve learned as a team this year and appreciate those guys and all they do for our team as I continue to learn each and every week.”

No. 54 Interstate All Battery Center Team Roster

Primary Team Members

Driver: Ty Gibbs

Hometown: Charlotte, North Carolina

Crew Chief: Chris Gayle

Hometown: Little Rock, Arkansas

Car Chief: Nate Bellows

Hometown: Fairfax, Vermont

Spotter: Tony Hirschman

Hometown: Northampton, Pennsylvania

Race Engineer: Seth Chavka

Hometown: Soldotna, Alaska

Race Engineer: Kyle Abrahims

Hometown: Spring Grove, Pennsylvania

Road Crew Members

Truck Driver: Chris Miko

Hometown: Bronx, New York

Mechanic: Ryan Towles Hometown: Salem, Virginia

Mechanic: Scott Eldridge

Hometown: Warsaw, Indiana

Truck Driver: Eloy Trevino

Hometown: Adrian, Michigan

Mechanic/Tire Specialist: Justin Peiffer

Hometown: Lebanon, Pennsylvania

Over-The-Wall Crew Members

Gas Man:

Hometown: Pffattown, North Carolina

Jackman: Braxton Brannon

Hometown: Mooresville, North Carolina

Tire Carrier: Nick McBeath

Hometown: Miami, Florida

Front Tire Changer: Jackson Gibbs

Hometown: Charlotte, North Carolina

Rear Tire Changer: Kevon Jackson

Hometown: Chicago, Illinois

TPC Racing Brings Six Car Effort To Porsche Sprint Challenge Finale at Indianapolis Motor Speedway

By
Official Release
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TPC Racing Has a Shot at Three Different Championships This Week, With Two Team Titles and David Williams in the 992 Am Driver Championship

Williams Opened the Race Week By Winning Pole Position in his Class

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana (October 5, 2023) – TPC Racing is ending the 2023 Porsche Sprint Challenge season on a high note, bringing a six-car effort to Indianapolis Motor Speedway across four classes with a shot at multiple championships in the single-make championship.

David Williams returns in the No. 237 Mission Barbecue Porsche 911 GT3 in the 992 Am class, joined by Shaun McKaigue in the No. 134 TPC Racing Porsche 911 GT3 in the 991 class. Four drivers will pilot Caymans, with Chloe Chambers, Tillman Schmid, and newcomer Aaron Farhadi in the Cayman Pro/Am class. Tom Kerr makes a return to TPC Racing this week in the Am class with his Porsche Cayman.

Run in conjunction with the Indianapolis 8 Hour race weekend, the Porsche Sprint Challenge opened the event on the IMS road course with practice and qualifying on Wednesday, while each class races once on Thursday and again on Friday. Each race can be seen live through Porsche Sprint Challenge at www.porschesprint.com.

The 991 class and both Cayman classes will race at 10 a.m. EDT today and again at 8:35 a.m. EDT on Friday morning. The 992 class gets their own feature races at Indianapolis, with green flags scheduled for 12:45 p.m. EDT today and 2:40 p.m. EDT Friday. All four races will run for a distance of 35 minutes plus one lap.

In addition to the individual race efforts, TPC Racing has an eye on the team championship in both the Cayman Pro-Am and 992 Am classes, while Williams has an opportunity to earn the drivers championship in the 992 Am class. TPC Racing leads the Cayman Pro-Am class with a 24 point margin, while Williams holds his 992 class individual title lead by 14 points. TPC Racing trails in the 992 team championship by 11, a deficit that can be overcome by a good weekend from Williams.

Making the most of his opportunities, Williams earned the 992 Am Class pole position on Wednesday afternoon with a best lap of 1:28.376. Williams is a two-time winner and seven-time podium finisher this season in the 992 Am class on his way to the championship lead.

Chambers has seven race wins in the No. 70 Monoflo International Cayman GT4 Clubsport, but sits just sixth in her class driver championship after missing the opening round of the season at Sebring International Raceway. Her Monoflo teammate Schmid helped the team championship by finishing on the podium in third in the opener behind the wheel of his No. 77 Monoflo International Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport, and fourth in the second race of that doubleheader, for his best finishes of the season to date.

Kerr, a TPC Racing stalwart, was only able to run at VIR this year but earned a second and a third-place finish in that event driving his iconic No. 73 Got Veins Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport. McKaigue has also run a limited schedule, piloting his No. 134 TPC Racing Porsche 911 in the Am class at Sebring and Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, but jumping into a Cayman for a successful run at Barber Motorsports Park.

Farhadi is a successful kart racer joining TPC Racing for the first time. The 17-year-old is a part of the partnership between TPC Racing and Dream Racing, with Farhadi making his racing debut in a car at Indianapolis. He’ll drive the No. 2 Dream Racing Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport this week.

Harris Levitas, TPC Racing Director of Race Operations: “We’re really excited to bring six cars to Indianapolis for the conclusion of the Porsche Sprint Challenge season. It’s been really great to see all of our drivers make the most of their opportunities this season and have success, whether they were full season or partial seasons. The championships will work themselves out if we keep doing what we’ve been doing, it’s not something we need to get caught up in going into the weekend. That’s a result of our TPC Racing team and our drivers, and I couldn’t be more proud of them for their efforts.”

Chloe Chambers, Driver, No. 70 Monoflo International Porsche Cayman: “Indianapolis is the track I have the least experience on this year. I’ve never raced on it, and only have two days of testing in July. Nonetheless, the track itself is top notch. I only live about two hours from the track, so this is basically my home race and what place to have our season finale! Missing Sebring was such a shame because I know I could’ve fought for the drivers championship, but my results this season have definitely proven that. I’m proud of what I’ve been able to accomplish in the rounds I have done with seven wins so far this season. I’m looking forward to seeing what the TPC Racing team and I can do with the Monoflo International Porsche Cayman in the last races of the year.”

Aaron Farhadi, Driver, No. 2 Dream Racing Porsche Cayman: “I was able to meet the entire team at Indianapolis during their Lamborghini Super Trofeo weekend, and overall I’m very happy we chose this team. I’m excited to do my first ever race with TPC Racing, and my goal is just to go through the weekend clean. I don’t want to have any incidents, and learn as much as I can in my first race.”

Tom Kerr, Driver, No. 73 Got Veins Porsche Cayman: “I’m just really looking forward to being back with TPC Racing, and I get to race this Porsche Cayman at Indianapolis Motor Speedway! It’s such a great experience. I haven’t gotten to race as much as I’d like to this season, but I wanted to make sure I was back for this week and we’ll make the most of it. Not a lot of people have been able to stand on the podium at Indy, but we’ve got a chance to make it happen if we stay clean and fast.”

About TPC Racing: TPC Racing is the Mid-Atlantic’s premier maintenance, service, tuning and modification center dedicated solely to Porsche sportscars. TPC Racing specializes in R&D and sales of high-performance modifications for Porsche sports cars and race cars, offering a wide range of vehicle upgrades. Best known for a line of forced induction solutions for the Porsche 911, Cayman and Boxster, a long-time focus on only one make, Porsche, has enabled TPC Racing to become experts in Porsche service, tuning, and racing. In 2000, TPC Racing began entering races under its own banner, scoring an SGS-class Championship in 2004 in the Grand-American Rolex Series and was a class winner in the 2006 Rolex 24 At Daytona, and captured the 2013 and 2016 IMSA Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge USA Gold Cup Championships. More information can be found at www.TPCRacing.com.

Beard Motorsports: Austin Hill Charlotte ROVAL Advance

By
Official Release
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AUSTIN HILL
Bank of America ROVAL 400 at the Charlotte Motor Speedway Road Course
No. 62 United Rentals Chevrolet Camaro

Event Overview

● Event: Bank of America Roval 400 (Round 32 of 36)
● Time/Date: 2:00 p.m. EDT on Sunday, Oct. 8
● Location: Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway Roval
● Layout: 2.28-mile, 17-turn road course
● Laps/Miles: 109 laps/252.88 miles
● State Lengths: Stage 1: 25 laps / Stage 2: 25 laps / Final Stage: 59 laps
● TV/Radio: NBC / PRN / SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Notes of Interest

● Beard Motorsports wraps up its 2023 NASCAR Cup Series campaign with Sunday’s Bank of America Roval 400 on the 2.28-mile, 17-turn road course at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway. It’s the final appearance this season for the No. 62 Chevrolet Camaro, which previously took to the track with NASCAR Xfinity Series championship-contending driver Austin Hill behind the wheel at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway, and twice each at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway and Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn. Hill will be back behind the wheel this weekend.

● Sunday’s road-course race will be the sixth career Cup Series start for Hill, who made his series debut last season at Michigan. It will be his first-ever start on a road course in Cup Series competition.

● While Hill is new to road-course racing at the Cup Series level, he has an abundance of road-course experience in both the Xfinity Series and NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Top-five finishes litter his Xfinity Series road-racing resume with third-, fourth- and fifth-place finishes at Portland (Ore.) International Raceway, Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, and the road course at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Highlighting Hill’s road-racing resume is his August 2021 Truck Series victory at Watkins Glen (N.Y.) International, where the native of Winston, Georgia, qualified on the pole and led a race-high 35 laps along the way.

● United Rentals partners with Beard Motorsports for Sunday’s Bank of America Roval 400 for the second time this season. With an integrated network of 1,487 rental locations in North America, 14 in Europe, 23 in Australia and 19 in New Zealand, United Rentals, Inc., is the largest equipment rental company in the world. Founded in 1997, the company operates in 49 states and every Canadian province within North America. The company’s approximately 25,750 employees serve construction and industrial customers, utilities, municipalities, homeowners and other customers. United Rentals will be the primary sponsor for Beard’s last scheduled race of the 2023 season at Charlotte.

● The last time Hill and Beard Motorsports paired up was during the Aug. 26 Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona. Hill ran a patient race after qualifying 30th. He raced as high as 11th and avoided the mayhem that unfolded during the event to finish 14th.

● The No. 62 Beard team operates as a family owned and run team that started as a passion project for the late Mark Beard Sr. Since his passing in early 2021, the team has operated under the guidance of family matriarch Linda Beard. The team is managed and nourished by daughter Amie Beard, who manages the day-to-day operations, and son Mark Jr., who provides leadership and support. Darren Shaw continues to oversee car and team preparations in the role of crew chief while the team continues to leverage the power of ECR engines. Beard Motorsports and its family owned company, Beard Oil Distributing – a certified women-owned business – both operate and thrive in male-dominated industries.

Linda Beard, Owner of the No. 62 United Rentals Chevrolet Camaro for Beard Motorsports:

This has been a departure from the typical season for Beard Motorsports with races at Atlanta, Michigan and, now Charlotte, joining the traditional superspeedway races at Daytona and Talladega. What has the experience been like for you?

“This schedule is something we have been determined to do and it was a group decision from Amie and Mark Jr., to Darren (Shaw, crew chief) and Brendan (Gaughan). I do think that we’ve been competitive and that is our goal. You never want to go and look bad, so we strive as hard as we can to go and put our best foot forward. I think we have accomplished a lot of that and we’re proud of what we have been able to do. We just try to keep doing what we’re doing and plowing through it and making the best decisions we can.”

The No. 62 team is a labor of love for you and your family. What has it been like this year to see it grow with the expanded schedule and additional partners?

“My husband gave us this love of racing and keeping his vision alive is very important and central to this team. And we are enjoying it. We love it. It’s not always easy – racing at this level is not easy. We just try to do the best we can every time we are on the track. We are very determined. We don’t go there to lose. We go to be competitive and try to win so that’s what we keep in mind all of the time. We aren’t settling for something. We want to make this work so we can win.”

Austin Hill has been behind the wheel for all of your races in 2023. What has that experience been like?

“The drivers that we’ve had have all become family. We just kind of bring them into the fold. We enjoy all of them and their personalities. It’s been so much fun to be with each of them and to get to know them. We’ve had two crazy guys from Las Vegas in Brendan (Gaughan) and Noah (Gragson). Austin is so nice and respectful, and we enjoy spending time with him at the track. He’s very business-like and serious about his racing. He and his family are so sweet. He’s a very dedicated guy and we’ve been so lucky to have him on board this year.”

Austin Hill, Driver of the No. 62 United Rentals Chevrolet Camaro:

When you look at the calendar and see a road race coming up, how do you respond to it? Do you look forward to road-course racing?

“It’s something I look forward to – I love road-course racing. I just love all of the shifting that you’re doing. You’re turning left and right. You’re hopping curbs. You’re driving the heck out of these racecars to go fast. And that’s what I like about that. I feel like it kind of puts it in the driver’s hands.”

You have fared pretty well in the road-course events in Xfinity Series competition with top-five finishes in Portland, Austin and Elkhart Lake, to name a few, as well as your Truck Series win at Watkins Glen. What have you learned through those experiences?

“The road courses have been solid for us in Xfinity. The more I’ve run those types of races, I’ve been able to figure out what I like and what I don’t like in the car. I think that can help us this weekend in Charlotte. The biggest thing for us will be survival – lining up and getting in line, making laps and trying to be solid. We will see where we stack up pace-wise, and then adjust how we want to approach the race. And that will change during the race, but running all the laps is the first step.”

This is your final Cup Series start of the season with Beard Motorsports. How has the experience been for you?

“It’s been a great experience – the seat time in a Cup car and getting to know the Beard family. The Beards are just really great people who treat you like family, so that’s been great. Every time I was in the Cup car, I felt like I learned something. The Cup cars in general just drive a lot differently than the Xfinity cars. And the competition definitely steps up at this level.”

No. 62 Beard Motorsports Team Roster

Primary Team Members

Driver: Austin Hill

Hometown: Winston, Georgia

Crew Chief: Darren Shaw

Hometown: Mooresville, North Carolina

Car Chief: Travis Owens

Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee

Spotter: Chris Osborne

Hometown: High Point, North Carolina

President: Linda Beard

Hometown: Mt. Pleasant, Michigan

VP of Racing Ops: Brendan Gaughan

Hometown: Las Vegas

Over-The-Wall Members

Front Tire Changer: Chase Masterson

Hometown: Spartanburg, South Carolina

Rear Tire Changer: Doug Warrick

Hometown: North Carolina

Tire Carrier: JD Holcomb

Hometown: Whitesburg, Kentucky

Jack Man: Marcus Horton

Hometown: North Carolina

Fuel Man: JP Kelly

Hometown: Luray, Virginia

Road Crew Members

Mechanic: Jack Gagnon

Hometown: Quebec, Canada

Mechanic: Mark Sanders

Hometown: Springfield, Ohio

Tire Technician: Eric Beaudoin

Hometown: Quebec, Canada

Engine Tuner: Jason Watkins

Hometown: Ridgeway, Virginia

Transporter Driver: Terry Burger

Hometown: Lexington, North Carolina

iRacing Acquires NASCAR Team Properties’ Exclusive Simulation-Style Console Racing Game License

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Official Release
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iRacing to develop NASCAR console game available in 2025

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (October 5, 2023) – NASCAR®, iRacing and Motorsport Games Inc. (NASDAQ: MSGM) (“Motorsport Games”) announced today that iRacing has acquired NASCAR Team Properties’ (NTP) exclusive simulation-style console racing games license from Motorsport Games. The sale, approved by NTP, will see the license transfer from 704Games, a wholly owned subsidiary of Motorsport Games, to iRacing, which will begin developing a NASCAR console game expected in 2025.

“When we were approached with the option to acquire the license for the simulation-style NASCAR console game, which was the console game and franchise that we were dreaming about doing, it was an opportunity we couldn’t pass up,” said iRacing President Tony Gardner. “Having the ability to build a NASCAR console game is a privilege we promise to execute with the utmost care. We look forward to working diligently with NASCAR industry stakeholders to deliver a product that provides an amazing experience for the gaming community and NASCAR fans worldwide.”

Gardner added, “With all the NASCAR game experience, console experience, resources and technology assets we already have in place, we are in a fantastic position to hit the ground running building a great NASCAR game franchise on the various platforms.”

The acquisition expands iRacing’s decade-plus presence in NASCAR. iRacing began its relationship with NASCAR in 2010 with a licensed sim racing product and has grown into a key technical partner of the sanctioning body as its “official simulation partner.” iRacing runs dozens of NASCAR official series on iRacing with thousands of people participating daily from late models to Cup cars, including the $100,000-to-win eNASCAR Coca-Cola iRacing Series and the eNASCAR iRacing Pro Invitational Series during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the Massachusetts-based company’s simulation and engineering abilities have helped NASCAR develop new cars and tracks, including the NextGen car, Busch Light Clash at the Coliseum, and Chicago Street Race, among others. Now, iRacing can extend its expertise broadly to include NASCAR Team Properties.

Motorsport Games obtained the NASCAR simulation-style console gaming license in 2018 when it acquired majority equity in 704Games. Motorsports Games’ current NASCAR titles, including NASCAR Heat 5 and NASCAR Rivals (available here), will still be available and supported by Motorsport Games through 2024.

“The sale of the NASCAR license is the result of a thorough, strategic review of where we believe our company should be headed over the longer-term,” said Motorsport Games CEO Stephen Hood. “In our exploration of the sale, we gave due consideration to those companies we believed could develop a great NASCAR game. Both NASCAR and iRacing have been receptive to our proposed change, working with us to architect a positive transition post-sale and we thank them for their support. We will now concentrate our efforts towards delivering around other IP already in advanced development.”

In addition to simulation-style console gaming, NASCAR has worked diligently to produce quality experiences for fans who engage in virtual and gaming spaces. This year, the sanctioning body launched NASCAR Speed Hub on Roblox, released arcade-style console game NASCAR Arcade Rush, made available special team decals in Rocket League, announced the development of a mobile game with Hutch and completed another successful season of the eNASCAR Coca-Cola iRacing Series. Furthermore, NASCAR partnered with esports organization Gen.G to create crossover content and build a live fan experience at the Rocket League Championship Series Major in Boston, and have had Fortnite and Rocket League paint schemes featured on cars in the NASCAR Cup Series this season. The sanctioning body is also leveraging gaming as an engine for content and community building through dedicated channels on Discord and Twitch, along with a growing presence on traditional social media channels.

“NASCAR has the most passionate fans in the world and a vast community that is just as passionate about gaming,” said NASCAR Managing Director Esports and Gaming Nick Rend. “What’s more, there continues to be tremendous opportunity to connect with millions of potential new fans in the gaming space.

“iRacing has been an incredible partner and ambassador for the NASCAR industry for more than a decade. We thank Motorsport Games for its efforts over the years and are ready to work with iRacing to deliver a best-in-class simulation-style NASCAR console game that’s exciting for the gaming community and allows our fans to connect with the sport in an impactful, meaningful way.”

For more information on NASCAR’s gaming initiatives, visit eNASCAR.com.

About NASCAR

Celebrating its 75th Anniversary in 2023, the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 16 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Sprint Race, NASCAR Mexico Series, NASCAR Pinty’s Series (Canada), NASCAR Whelen Euro Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in eight cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 12 countries and more than 30 U.S. states. For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat (‘NASCAR’).

About iRacing

To learn more about the most realistic, authentic and industry leading motorsports racing simulation and games from iRacing for both NASCAR and other motorsports properties, visit https://www.iracing.com.

About Motorsport Games

Motorsport Games, a Motorsport Network company, is a leading racing game developer, publisher and esports ecosystem provider of official motorsport racing series throughout the world. Combining innovative and engaging video games with exciting esports competitions and content for racing fans and gamers, Motorsport Games strives to racing games that are authentically close to reality. The Company is the officially licensed video game developer and publisher for iconic motorsport racing series including the 24 Hours of Le Mans, INDYCAR, and the British Touring Car Championship (“BTCC”). Motorsport Games also owns the industry leading rFactor 2 and KartKraft simulation platforms. rFactor 2 also serves as the official sim racing platform of Formula E, while also powering F1 Arcade through a partnership with Kindred Concepts. Motorsport Games is also an award-winning esports partner of choice for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Formula E and BTCC. Motorsport Games is building a virtual racing ecosystem where each product drives excitement, every esports event is an adventure and every race inspires.

Honda to Begin Sales of All-new N-BOX in Japan

By
Official Release
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Third-generation N-BOX designed to offer a joyful time for all occupants –

TOKYO, Oct 5, 2023 – (JCN Newswire) – Honda Motor Co., Ltd. will begin sales in Japan of the all-new N-BOX tomorrow, on Friday, October 6, 2023.

The all-new, third-generation N-BOX was developed with the aim of creating a vehicle which provides a joyful time for everyone who uses it, enabling customers to fulfill their broad range of purposes, including what they want to do for the happiness of everyone, not just for themselves and their families.

In addition to a refined exterior design that exudes a greater sense of high quality, the all-new N-BOX features an easy-to-drive and comfortable interior space achieved by carrying forward the spacious cabin which has always been a popular feature of the N-BOX to realize an uncluttered field of vision with enhanced sense of openness.

Moreover, the all-new N-BOX became the first Honda mini-vehicle model to feature Honda CONNECT, an in-vehicle communication system equipped with new-generation connected technologies, which enables customers to enjoy the use of their vehicle with greater peace of mind and comfort.

Furthermore, the all-new N-BOX continues to feature the Honda SENSING advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies as standard equipment on all types, but with two newly added functions, namely Low Speed Brake Function and Unintended Acceleration Mitigation.

N-BOX Product site:　https://www.honda.co.jp/Nbox/(Japanese)

For more information, visit https://global.honda/en/newsroom/news/2023/4231005-n-boxeng.html.

Electronics Asia Conference 2023 to Highlight IoT, AI/ML, Automotive, and Wireless Developments Driving Semiconductor Industry Growth in Asia

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Official Release
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Now on its second year, EAC will focus on how IoT, AI/ML, automotive, wireless, and the industrial sectors are powering innovations in Asia’s semiconductor ecosystem.

TAIWAN, Oct 5, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Following the success of its inaugural edition, the second Electronics Asia Conference (EAC), a virtual conference and exhibition organized by AspenCore, the publisher of EE Times Asia, EE Times India, and EDN Asia, is set to take place from October 17 to 19, 2023. With the theme “Strengthening Asia’s Semiconductor Manufacturing Ecosystem,” EAC 2023 aims to highlight the latest technology trends, innovations, and strategic insights within the electronics and semiconductor industry in Asia.

The global semiconductor industry reversed its five straight quarters of decline by registering a 3.4% revenue growth in the second quarter of 2023, according to Omdia. Driving the turnaround are the wireless segment, the automotive electronics sector, and artificial intelligence (AI), mainly due to growing demand for generative AI and data processing chips in the server space.

According to International Data Corp. (IDC), spending on AI—including software, services, and hardware for AI-centric systems—in the Asia-Pacific region is expected to reach $78.4 billion in 2027, reflecting a shift toward adopting cutting-edge technologies to transform operations and maintain a competitive edge in a rapidly changing market.

Meanwhile, the increasing adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies is fueling the automation and digitalization trends in the industrial space, thereby stimulating demand for Internet of Things (IoT) and embedded systems, as more manufacturers embrace smarter manufacturing.

These key trends are among the many developments driving Asia’s electronics and semiconductor supply chain.

EAC 2023 will put the spotlight on technology innovations that are driving the latest developments and new applications in sectors including IoT, AI/ML, embedded systems, industrial automation, smart manufacturing, the wireless sector, and the electronics and semiconductor supply chain. The event will feature a virtual fairground, an exhibition hall, and a conference space, similar to a live exhibition and conference.

Confirmed companies presenting at the virtual conference include Arm, Applied Materials Inc., Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), Cadence Design Systems Inc., Cambridge GaN Devices, Chip 1 Exchange, GaN Systems Inc., Infineon Technologies AG, Merck Electronics, Molex, Navitas Semiconductor, proteanTecs, NXP Semiconductors, MosChip Technologies Ltd, Mouser Electronics Inc., Silicon Laboratories Inc., SCHURTER Group, STMicroelectronics, Synopsys Inc., Tektronix, and Texas Instruments Inc.

For more information and to register, visit https://ve.eetasia.com/eac2023.

About AspenCore

AspenCore is a unique collection of brands and products that have set the standard in meeting the demands of today’s engineers.

We reach over 15 million technologists, designers, engineers, and managers. We connect this electronics community to reliable news, authoritative analysis, industry trends, and daily information on new technology.

Our brands include EE Times, Electronic Products, EPSNews, ESM China, IoT Times, Power Electronics News, EDN, EEWeb, Electro Schematics, Elektroda.pl, Embedded.com, Planet Analog, and more.

For more information, visit https://aspencore.com.

LG Energy Solution and Toyota Sign Long-term Battery Supply Agreement to Power Electric Vehicles in the U.S.

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Official Release
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  • Two global leaders join forces to drive the future growth of battery electric vehicles in the U.S.
  • LG Energy Solution to supply Toyota with 20GWh of high-nickel NCMA battery modules annually from 2025.
  • Modules produced in LG Energy Solution’s Michigan facility to be used to power a new BEV model assembled in North America, at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, among others.

LG Energy Solution (KRX: 373220) and Toyota Motor North America, Inc. (Toyota) today announced that they have signed a supply agreement for lithium-ion battery modules to be used in Toyota battery electric vehicles (BEVs) that will be assembled in the United States.

Under the contract, LG Energy Solution will supply automotive battery modules at an annual capacity of 20GWh starting from 2025. The battery modules, consisting of high-nickel NCMA (nickel, cobalt, manganese, aluminum) pouch-type cells, will be manufactured in LG Energy Solution’s Michigan facility.

The innovative power solutions will support Toyota’s expanding line of BEVs, part of its multi-pathway product strategy, including a new BEV model that will be assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky in 2025. They will also help further Toyota’s vehicle electrification initiatives, as it aspires to offer 30 BEV models globally across its Toyota and Lexus brand nameplates and produce up to 3.5 million BEVs annually by 2030.

“At Toyota, our goal is to reduce carbon emissions as much as possible, as fast as possible,” said Tetsuo “Ted” Ogawa, president and CEO of Toyota Motor North America. “Having secure supplies of lithium-ion batteries at scale with a long-term relationship to support Toyota’s multi-pathwayapproach and growth plans for BEVs in North America is critical to achieveour manufacturing and carbon reduction plans. Working with LG Energy Solution, we are excited to be able to offer products that will provide the performance and quality our customers expect.”

To fulfill the supply agreement, LG Energy Solution will invest KRW 4 trillion (approximately USD 3 billion) in its Michigan facility to establish new production lines for battery cells and modules exclusively for Toyota, with completion slated for 2025. Initially, the battery modules will go to Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky to be assembled into battery packs and equipped onto BEVs.

The agreement brings together LG Energy Solution’s proven capabilities in manufacturing top quality battery cells and modules at scale, and Toyota’s advanced technologies in battery packs to create a product using LG Energy Solution’s innovative power solution which optimizes battery system performance, providing peace of mind and further enhancing the BEV customer experience. LG Energy Solution continues to enhance battery safety, including with respect to its thermal management for its high-nickel NCMA batteries.

“We’re excited to have Toyota, the best-selling global automaker, as our new customer. With our 30 years of experience in lithium-ion batteries, we will provide innovative power solutions to support Toyota’s push further into battery electric vehicles,” said Youngsoo Kwon, CEO of LG Energy Solution. “The agreement also presents another big opportunity for us to strengthen our production capacity in North America, thereby bringing more real-life, large-scale progress toward electrification in the region.”

The landmark deal represents LG Energy Solution’s largest single supply agreement secured outside of joint venture agreements. The company now supplies its batteries to all top five global automakers[1]. Based on its market leadership, the company has eight battery manufacturing facilities currently operating or under construction in North America, and continues to expand both its production network and supply chain in the region.

[1] Based on 2022 market sales

About LG Energy Solution

LG Energy Solution (KRX: 373220), a split-off from LG Chem, is a leading global manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, mobility, IT, and energy storage systems. With 30 years of experience in revolutionary battery technology and extensive research and development (R&D), the company is the top battery-related patent holder in the world with over 25,000 patents. Its robust global network, which spans North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, includes battery manufacturing facilities established through joint ventures with major automakers such as General Motors, Stellantis N.V., Hyundai Motor Group, and Honda Motor Co. Ltd. At the forefront of green business and sustainability, LG Energy Solution aims to achieve carbon neutral operations by 2050, while embodying the value of shared growth and promoting diverse and inclusive corporate culture. To learn more about LG Energy Solution’s ideas and innovations, visit https://www.lgensol.com.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs more than 63,000 people in North America who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 45 million cars and trucks at our 13 manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 14th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 26 electrified options. Learn more at: http://pressroom.toyota.com.

21 Team Hoping To Capitalize on Wild ROVAL Race at Charlotte

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Official Release
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As NASCAR’s Cup Series heads to Charlotte Motor Speedway for Sunday’s Bank of America ROVAL 400, most people in the sport are expecting an action-packed race as it will determine which eight drivers will advance to the next round of the Playoffs.

Jeremy Bullins, crew chief of the No. 21 Motorcraft/Quick Lane Mustang driven by Harrison Burton, agrees that the race on the part-oval and part-road course will be a doozy for all involved.

“I think we are all in store for a wild weekend in Charlotte with the ROVAL being a cut-off race for the Round of 12,” Bullins said, adding that there will be another wrinkle to complicate things on Sunday. “Combine that with the return of Stage cautions that will shuffle the running order with 10 guys choosing to take Stage points and the rest flipping the Stage for track position and I’m sure this race will have some interesting moments.”

He said the change in rules for Stages will provide the Motorcraft/Quick Lane team with more strategy options.

“For us it’s pretty simple,” Bullins said. “The points won’t mean much, so we will work towards the strategy that gives us the best opportunity at a good finish at the end.”

And he said his sophomore driver has done his homework headed into a race that features both left and right turns on a unique 17-turn, 2.28-mile course.

“Harrison has spent a lot of time in the simulator and studying to be as prepared as possible, and it’s another great opportunity for us to work on our road-course performance before the 2024 season,” Bullins said.

Practice for the Bank of America ROVAL 400 is set for Saturday at noon Eastern Time and will be followed by qualifying at 1 p.m. USA Network will carry the TV broadcast of practice and qualifying.

Sunday’s 109-lap, 252.88-mile race is set to get the green flag just after 2 p.m. with TV coverage on NBC.

Stage breaks are planned for Laps 25 and 50.

About Motorcraft®
Motorcraft offers a complete line of replacement parts that are recommended by Ford Motor Company. From routine maintenance to underhood repairs, Motorcraft parts offer value with high quality and the right fit at competitive prices. Motorcraft parts are available nationwide at Ford Dealers and Lincoln Retailers, independent distributors and automotive-parts retailers, and are backed by the Service Parts Limited Warranty* of Ford Motor Company. For more information, visit www.motorcraft.com.
*See your dealer for limited-warranty details.

About Omnicraft®
Omnicraft is part of the Ford lineup of parts brands: Ford Parts, Motorcraft and Omnicraft. Omnicraft is the exclusive non-Ford/Lincoln parts brand of premium aftermarket parts. With over a century of parts heritage to build upon, Omnicraft provides excellent quality and fit and is a preferred choice of professional automotive technicians. To find out more about Omnicraft, visit www.omnicraftautoparts.com or contact your local Ford or Lincoln Dealership.
*See your dealer for limited-warranty details.

About Quick Lane® Tire & Auto Center
Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center offers extraordinary service for routine maintenance, serving all vehicle makes and models. Quick Lane provides a full menu of automotive services, including tires, oil change and maintenance, brakes, batteries, alternator and electrical system, air conditioning system, cooling system, transmission service, suspension and steering, wheel alignment, belts and hoses, lamps and bulbs and wiper blades plus a thorough vehicle checkup report. Service is performed by expert technicians while you wait at any of nearly 800 locations in the U.S., with evening and weekend hours available and no appointment necessary. For more information about Quick Lane, please visit www.quicklane.com.
*See your dealer for limited-warranty details.

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, that is committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for and deepen the loyalty of those customers. Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, as well as connected services. Additionally, Ford is establishing leadership positions in mobility solutions, including self-driving technology, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 176,000 people worldwide. More information about the company, its products and Ford Credit is available at corporate.ford.com.
*See seller for limited-warranty details.

Wood Brothers Racing
Wood Brothers Racing was formed in 1950 in Stuart, Va., by Hall of Famer Glenn Wood. Wood Brothers Racing is the oldest active team and one of the winningest teams in NASCAR history. Since its founding, the team won 99 races (including at least one race in every decade for the last seven decades) and 120 poles in NASCAR’s top-tier series. Fielding only Ford products for its entire history, the Wood Brothers own the longest association of any motorsports team with a single manufacturer. Glenn’s brother, Leonard, is known for inventing the modern pit stop. The team currently runs the Ford Mustang driven by Harrison Burton in the famous No. 21 racer.

Navigating Hazards: The 5 Most Dangerous Cities for Car Accidents in Florida

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SM
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Photo by Elvis Vasquez

Florida, renowned for its picturesque beaches and sunny climate, also bears the reputation of having some of the most treacherous roads in the United States. A combination of factors, including speeding, drunk driving, texting, challenging traffic conditions, inadequate stop lights, and unique weather-related challenges, contribute to making certain Florida cities particularly hazardous for car accidents. In this article, we’ll explore the five most dangerous cities in Florida and the specific issues that make them hotspots for accidents.

1. Miami

Miami, Florida’s bustling cultural hub, is unfortunately renowned for its congested streets and reckless driving. Speeding and aggressive driving are common here, exacerbated by heavy traffic and tourists unfamiliar with the city’s layout. Additionally, Miami’s vibrant nightlife scene contributes to a high incidence of drunk driving accidents, especially in areas like South Beach. The combination of these factors makes Miami one of the most accident-prone cities in the state.

2. Tampa

Tampa, with its sprawling metropolitan area, faces a unique set of challenges. Texting while driving is a widespread issue in the city and its surrounding areas. The temptation to use smartphones behind the wheel has led to numerous distracted driving accidents. Additionally, Tampa’s unpredictable weather, including sudden rain showers, contributes to slippery road conditions, leading to an increased risk of accidents. With all of the sudden impact of people moving here, Tampa’s car crash incidents could be number one soon

3. Orlando

Orlando, home to major theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, attracts millions of visitors each year. The influx of tourists, coupled with a high volume of local traffic, creates a perfect storm for accidents. Poorly timed traffic lights, especially in areas surrounding the theme parks, can lead to gridlock and frustration, resulting in accidents caused by impatient drivers.

4. Jacksonville

Jacksonville, as Florida’s largest city by area, presents unique traffic challenges. Its sprawling layout necessitates long commutes for many residents, leading to congestion during rush hours. Speeding and aggressive driving are common as drivers try to cut through traffic. Additionally, the city’s varied weather conditions, including dense fog and heavy rain, contribute to reduced visibility and slippery roads, making accidents more likely.

5. Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale’s beachfront location attracts both tourists and locals, leading to heavy traffic year-round. Speeding along the scenic coastal roads is a frequent occurrence, and the city has a notable problem with drunk driving accidents, especially in its lively downtown area. The mix of alcohol and high speeds can prove deadly on Fort Lauderdale’s streets.

Addressing the Challenges

While these Florida cities have their unique challenges, there are measures that can be taken to reduce the incidence of car accidents:

  • Enforcement of Traffic Laws: Stricter enforcement of speeding and aggressive driving laws can help deter dangerous behaviors on the road.
  • Anti-Distracted Driving Campaigns: Public awareness campaigns and penalties for texting while driving can discourage this dangerous behavior.
  • Sobriety Checkpoints: Increased law enforcement efforts to combat drunk driving, including sobriety checkpoints, can reduce the number of alcohol-related accidents.
  • Improvements in Traffic Infrastructure: Investments in traffic infrastructure, including better-designed intersections and more efficient traffic light systems, can improve traffic flow and reduce accidents.
  • Weather Awareness and Preparedness: Drivers should be educated about safe driving practices in various weather conditions, and road maintenance should focus on reducing weather-related hazards.

While Florida’s beautiful landscapes and vibrant cities are appealing, they also present unique challenges for road safety. The most dangerous cities in the state often grapple with issues like speeding, drunk driving, texting, traffic congestion, inadequate traffic management, and challenging weather conditions. Addressing these issues through a combination of law enforcement, public education, and infrastructure improvements is essential to making Florida’s roads safer for everyone. It’s a shared responsibility that requires collective effort to reduce accidents and save lives.

WWE’s Liv Morgan Named Grand Marshal, Kurt Busch to Serve as Honorary Starter At Bank of America ROVAL™ 400

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Official Release
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CONCORD, N.C. (Oct. 4, 2023) – WWE Superstar Liv Morgan has been named Grand Marshal for Sunday’s Bank of America ROVAL™ 400 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, while two-time Charlotte winner Kurt Busch will serve as Honorary Starter for the pivotal NASCAR Playoffs showdown.

Morgan, The New York Post’s 2022 Female Breakout Wrestler of the Year, is no stranger to the big stage, having already earned a WWE SmackDown Women’s Championship and two WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships in her career. On Sunday, she’ll set the stage for a clash of NASCAR titans as she gives the command to fire engines before drivers take to the innovative 17-turn, 2.28-mile course for the sixth running of the Bank of America ROVAL™ 400.

“The same qualities that make a great WWE champion – passion, commitment and dedication – are what NASCAR’s best will need to survive Sunday’s Bank of America ROVAL™ 400,” Morgan said. “I can’t wait to be there to see all the action, hang out with the fans and find out who’s got what it takes to bring home the win.”

Among his 34 career Cup Series wins, Busch took the checkered flag at both the NASCAR All-Star Race and Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte in 2010. He still holds the record for the fastest qualifying lap ever at the track (27.167 seconds at 198.771 mph on the oval configuration). While he announced his retirement from Cup Series racing earlier this year, Busch will take in the start of Sunday’s 109-lap Bank of America ROVAL™ 400 from the flag stand as Honorary Starter.

Additional dignitaries for Sunday’s Bank of America ROVAL™ 400 include:

Presentation of Colors: Burlington Fire Department Honor Guard
Invocation and National Anthem: Matthew West, Five-time GRAMMY® nominee
Dignitaries for Saturday’s Drive for the Cure 250 presented by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina:

  • Honorary Starter: June Mangum, Blue Cross NC and 20-year breast cancer survivor
  • Grand Marshals: Patrice Bidgood, six-year breast cancer survivor; Destiny Medlin, four-year breast cancer survivor
  • Presentation of Colors: 111th Civil Air Patrol
  • Invocation: Rev. Doc. Major Stewart, Mt. Sinai Baptist Church
  • National Anthem: Cassandra Kliewer

A full weekend of fun kicks off with Fan Friday, featuring an autograph session and driver appearances by Joe Gibbs Racing’s defending Bank of America ROVAL™ 400 winner Christopher Bell, Ty Gibbs, Denny Hamlin and Martin Truex Jr., plus Xfinity Series stars John Hunter Nemechek and Sammy Smith at the Toyota Racing Experience. Fans will also be treated to a unique hauler parade through the fan zone before legendary country music star Tim Dugger takes the stage.

Saturday, NASCAR Xfinity Series drivers will battle for victory in the Drive for the Cure 250 presented by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. Fans will be treated as a lineup of entertainment will flood America’s Home for Racing with a live show by Door, Bumper, Clear, and an electrifying performance by the fan-favorite cover band, Alter Ego.

Multi-platinum country music superstar Riley Green will open the final day with a pre-race infield performance guaranteed to get fans revved up as the NASCAR Cup Series will face off in the pivotal Bank of America ROVAL™ 400.

TICKETS:

To purchase Drive for the Cure 250 and Bank of America ROVAL™ 400 race tickets, fans can shop online at www.charlottemotorspeedway.com or call 1-800-455-FANS (3267). Kids 12 and under get in all weekend for just $10.

MORE INFO:

Fans can connect with Charlotte Motor Speedway and get the latest news by following on Twitter and Instagram, becoming a Facebook fan or downloading the Charlotte Motor Speedway mobile app.

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