Castroneves joins MSR ownership group as a minority partner, will focus on fifth Indianapolis 500 victory in 2024 with MSR
Indianapolis, Ind. (11 August 2024) – Meyer Shank Racing (MSR) will expand its NTT INDYCAR SERIES program starting with the 2024 season, signing a promising young talent and making a new addition to the ownership group.
The team has signed Tom Blomqvist, who won the 2022 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship as well as the 2022 and 2023 Rolex 24 At Daytona with MSR, to a multi-year agreement to pilot the team’s first of two full-season entries starting in 2024.
Four-time Indianapolis 500 winner Helio Castroneves will remain with the team for the 2024 season and beyond as the affable fan favorite takes on a new role with MSR.
Castroneves will join the Meyer Shank Racing ownership group as a minority partner. After winning a record-tying fourth Indianapolis 500 victory with MSR in 2021, Castroneves will continue his ‘Drive for 5’ with the Ohio-based team in 2024 and will enter the 108th Running of the Indianapolis 500 as the third entry for MSR.
“We are thrilled to bring Tom (Blomqvist) over to our INDYCAR program full-time starting next year, and to be able to keep Helio as a key part of our program moving forward and go for a fifth Indianapolis 500 victory next year,” said Mike Shank. “I feel like all the planets aligned for us to be able to do this, so I’m really grateful for us to be making this next step as a team. Helio brings so much to what we do overall as a team, both in terms of our competition package and all of his experience, as well as how he’s able to engage with our partners. So having him transition to this role is really exciting for everyone involved.”
The move from IMSA to INDYCAR marks a return to open-wheel competition for Blomqvist, who first forged his name in European competition with outstanding campaigns in Formula Renault and the highly competitive Formula 3 championships. His career then saw him move to DTM ahead of making his Formula E debut in 2017. Most recently, Blomqvist’s accolades include an LMP2 second place finish in the 2021 24 Hours of Le Mans on his way to taking a runner-up result in the 2021 FIA World Endurance Championship.
In addition to Blomqvist’s role with MSR in major wins at IMSA’s 24 Hours At Daytona and Motul Petit Le Mans, he has also been an integral part in the team’s development of the all-new Acura LMDh Prototype hybrid in 2023. The British racer ran an astounding single-lap effort to deliver Acura the first-ever IMSA GTP class pole at Daytona, and added to the tally of success with a victory alongside Colin Braun last month at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park.
Blomqvist made his INDYCAR debut filling in for the recovering Simon Pagenaud in Toronto, but his race unfortunately came to an early end after he was taken out in a first turn, first lap accident that put him out of the race.
“Firstly I would like to say a huge thank you to Mike and Jim and all the partners – AutoNation, SiriusXM, Arctic Wolf, Clopay and Cleveland-Cliffs – for believing in me and giving me this opportunity,” said Blomqvist. “It’s been a good ride the last two years in IMSA, but I’ve been itching to make the step up to INDYCAR and this is an opportunity I’m eager and motivated to make the most of. INDYCAR is an incredibly competitive series and I’m under no illusions in how difficult this championship can be, but I am extremely motivated to make the most of this exciting new challenge.”
Meyer Shank Racing has placed great value in Castroneves’ abilities on and off the track. The four-time Indianapolis 500 winner will stay onboard with Meyer Shank Racing full-time, serving as driver mentor, team ambassador and partner of MSR’s growing list of sponsors which include AutoNation, SiriusXM, Arctic Wolf, Clopay and Cleveland-Cliffs. The Meyer Shank Racing ownership group now includes Mike Shank, Jim Meyer, Liberty Media, and now Castroneves.
“First I want to thank Mike, Jim and Liberty for accepting me as part of the ownership group,” said Castroneves. “Throughout my career I’ve been very fortunate to surround myself with an amazing group of people and this journey will be my next chapter and I can’t wait for that. Don’t get me wrong, I still have a lot of fuel to burn inside in terms of driving and I will do that at the Indy 500 as I continue my pursuit of the Drive for Five.”
Meyer Shank Racing is still finalizing plans for it’s second full-season entry in 2024 and will announce soon.
ELKHART LAKE, Wisconsin (August 11, 2023) – Tiger Tari’s Road America rounds of the Lamborghini Super Trofeo season mirrored his season to date, with incredible highs and steady improvement ripped away through bad luck and misfortune.
Tari and his Star Spangled Racing/NTE Sport team left the doubleheader weekend on August 4-6 with a sixth and a 10th place finish, but led a lap in the LB Cup class under the pit cycle and drove as high as third place on the track before his weekend ended early thanks to unfortunate contact.
The highlight of the weekend was when he found his No. 17 Star Spangled Racing with NTE Lamborghini Huracan Super Trofeo EVO2 at the top of the LB Cup class in the midst of the mandatory pit stops. Though the top spot was short lived, Tari had driven to third and held the position after everyone’s stops had been completed.
Even that came with some drama, as Tari’s radio communication with the team was compromised in the race. Tari made the call to pit on his own after noticing the pit window open, and then left alone again after the stop. Light contact to the rear of his car in the middle of a corner caused a spin and the podium finish evaporated.
“Road America is such a fun track, but there is more elevation change than there looks on tv,” Tari said. “Not having a radio is a real disadvantage, especially on the starts and restarts. You can’t see the starter’s stand and the flag until you crest the hill, so I had to wait and judge it by the other cars around me. It probably cost me at least one position on every start or restart, and I had to push to get that back.”
Tari had again driven to fifth during Sunday’s race after starting eighth, avoiding other people’s incidents and marching up the sheets. That evaporated with 13 minutes remaining in the 50 minute race. Locked in a battle with a fellow LB Cup competitor heading into Canada Corner, Tari was hit hard in the rear by a Pro class contender.
The contact resulted in a drive through penalty for the Pro driver, but both cars were undrivable after the incident. Tari’s No. 17 suffered significant damage to the rear, and will need to be repaired to make the next round at Virginia International Raceway.
“The end of that race was terribly unfortunate,” Tari said. “I’ve been snake bit this year trying to finish races, but I’m really happy with my driving. I continue to get faster, and even though I expect more from myself I have to remember that I haven’t even been doing this for a full season.”
Indeed, Tari’s debut came one year ago at Road America after participating in SCCA and World Endurance League racing. He had never so much as sat in the car prior to his debut, and even then – because he shared the car with a co-driver, and also experienced some mechanical issues – had only about four full laps at Road America.
Because of that, each of the first half of the 2023 season saw Tari visiting new-to-him race tracks. At the tricky WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, Tari opened with a fourth-place finish and went even quicker in race two before a spin on old tires ended his race one lap down. Watkins Glen was very similar, getting quicker in race two before a flat tire ended his day early.
Beginning at the next race at VIR, Tari gets an opportunity to repeat a track – one that he earned a podium on a season ago.
“I’m looking forward to being able to settle in at VIR,” Tari said. “It’s been a very up and down year, but I finally get to eliminate the variables. I know the car pretty well by now, and I know the track. I can take what I learned last year and focus forward this week. It will be really fun.”
Tari exits Road America eighth in the LB Cup seaon-long championship, and part of the Lamborghini Palm Beach’s dominating effort in the dealership standings.
Tari’s Star Spangled Racing Lamborghini is carrying Lamborghini Palm Beach, PSA Systems, Clean Claims, Home Repair Network Limited and Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse on the car during the 2023 season.
The Lamborghini Super Trofeo season, including Tari’s No. 17 Star Spangled Racing Lamborghini Huracan, returns to action at VIR for a doubleheader August 25-27.
About Star Spangled Racing:
Based in Jacksonville, Florida, Star Spangled Racing was established in 2020 by first-generation American Tiger Tari. Star Spangled Racing accelerated quickly, moving from club and endurance events into professional racing just two years later with a Lamborghini Huracan GT3 Evo in the 2022 IMSA WeatherTech Championship GT Daytona (GTD) class in a partnership with NTE Sport. Tari extended his driving career by finishing the season in the LB Cup class of Lamborghini Super Trofeo during the 2022 season. More information can be found at www.starspangledracing.com.
The Silver Cloud III, one of only 50 built in 1964 with a huge, canvas-covered moonroof, joins the Charlotte Fall AutoFair on Sept. 7-9. (Photo: Aaron Farrier)
CONCORD, N.C. (Aug. 11, 2023) – Forget the classic double take — it is a trio of high-profile vehicles from the silver screen that will turn spectators’ heads faster than you can say “Movie Cars” at Charlotte Motor Speedway’s Sept. 7–9 Charlotte AutoFair.
Responsible for the triple takes are a 1964 Rolls-Royce seen in the original Cannonball Run movie, a 1969 Ford Mustang from John Wick, and a Wagon Queen Family Truckster made famous in the first Vacation film.
Where else have I seen this Rolls-Royce? The Silver Cloud III, one of only 50 built-in 1964 with a huge, canvas-covered moonroof, enjoyed screen time in the 1981 Burt Reynolds’ action-comedy Cannonball Run. The beautiful burgundy-and-silver saloon also made cameos in 1985’s Sylvester and 1989’s Bluegrass, among other films. Owned by the Schworer Beverly Hills Limousine company, the Silver Cloud has ferried an astonishing roster of Hollywood stars (Dean Martin, Bob Hope, Yul Brynner, Mickey Rooney), musicians (KISS, REO Speedwagon, The Moody Blues, and Alabama), and some other folks you might know (Muhammad Ali, Justin Timberlake, and Ozzy Osbourne).
Has that Mustang been wrecked? Keanu Reeves’ title character in the John Wick movie series does not have good luck when it comes to keeping a classic car show-ready. The 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429 coming to the Charlotte AutoFair is one of the “surviving” stunt cars from 2017’s John Wick: Chapter 2, in which Wick uses the once-pristine pony car like a weapon of mass destruction against a gang of Russian mobsters.
Is that Metallic Pea Green? “You think you hate it now, but wait ’til you drive it” is how the salesman at Lou Glutz Motors convinced Clark Griswold to buy a Wagon Queen Family Truckster in the 1983 comedy classic National Lampoon’s Vacation. Based (in real life) on a heavily modified 1979 Ford LTD Country Squire station wagon, the original Truckster and four duplicates were reportedly destroyed during filming. The Pea Green wagon, liberally covered with 1970s-chic fake wood paneling, was vandalized, crashed in the desert, and further butchered by unscrupulous mechanics before delivering the Griswold family to the Walley World theme park. The Truckster coming to AutoFair is a 1984 Country Squire replica that was faithfully transformed by—no joke—Steve and Lisa Griswold’s family and has been autographed by Vacation star Chevy Chase. The Movie Cars will be displayed in the Showcase Pavilion during the Sept. 7–9 Charlotte AutoFair at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Other show highlights include the Best of the Best custom show vehicles, a Corvette 70th Anniversary exhibit, and a Sept. 11 Tribute Car.
MORE INFO:
AutoFair will transform the famed 1.5-mile speedway throughout the weekend. The latest technology, trends, parts and products will fill the manufacturer’s midway. Guests can test drive the current line of Chevrolet vehicles and ride shotgun with professional Ford Performance Racing School drivers latest from the worlds of electric and off-road vehicles. Additionally, the reconfigured swap meet, hosted by the Hornet’s Nest Region AACA, will provide a wide array of hard-to-find parts and memorabilia.
TICKETS: Adult single-day tickets are $10 on Thursday and $15 on Friday and Saturday. Three-day passes are just $30 for adults. Children 12 and under get in FREE with an adult. Tickets are available online at CharlotteMotorSpeedway.com or at the gate.
FOLLOW US: Keep track of AutoFair attractions and events by following us on Twitter and Instagram or becoming a Facebook fan. Keep up with all the latest news and information with the Charlotte Motor Speedway mobile app.
David Williams Battling for Sprint Challenge Porsche 992 Am-Division Championship in the TPC Racing No. 237 Mission BBQ Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
Chloe Chambers Steps Into the TPC Racing No. 77 Monoflo International Porsche Cayman GT4 Looking for More Race Wins and to Build TPC Racing’s Team Championship Lead
ELKHART LAKE, Wisconsin (August 11, 2023) – Fresh off of a podium performance just last weekend at Road America, TPC Racing makes a quick return to the 4.048-mile Wisconsin road course to continue a pair of Porsche Sprint Challenge North America presented by Yokohama championship battles in this weekend’s “all-Porsche” 992 and Cayman races at “America’s National Park of Speed.”
Last Sunday at Road America, TPC Racing capped a competitive return to the IMSA Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America series with a third-place class finish with co-drivers Shehan Chandrasoma and Bryson Lew in the No. 20 TPC Racing/Lamborghini Austin Huracán Super Trofeo EVO2.
The TPC Racing team and its drivers look for more success this weekend in Porsche Sprint Challenge 992 GT3 Cup and Cayman GT4 Clubsport competition.
Leading the way is two-time 2023 race winner David Williams who competes in the Am class in the top-tier Porsche Sprint Challenge 992 division in his TPC Racing No. 237 Mission BBQ Porsche 911 GT3 Cup.
With victories at Sebring International Raceway and Barber Motorsports Park and seven-straight podium appearances to start the season, Williams is just three points out of the 992 Am championship lead with Road America kicking off the year’s final three doubleheader weekends of competition.
In the Cayman division, three-time 2023 race winner Chloe Chambers looks for another victory in this weekend’s triple header schedule of races for the Cayman GT4 Clubsport series. After teammate Evan Hinkle was sidelined this week due to unexpected personal commitments, Chambers steps into sponsor Monoflo International’s primary No. 77 Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport.
Chambers swept both races in her series debut in April at Barber Motorsports Park and also picked up a win in the second race one event ago at VIRginia International Raceway. Her immediate success in the series has played a major role in TPC Racing leading the Cayman Team Championship standings by three points coming into the Road America weekend.
Noteworthy
A season-high five-car entry was planned for TPC Racing this weekend, but Hinkle is joined by fellow TPC Racing Cayman GT4 competitor Tom Kerr as a late scratch. “We are looking forward to his return at Indianapolis, but Tom is sitting the Road America weekend out due to a family emergency,” Levitas said. “We wish Tom, Evan and their families all the best and we will see them back at the track very soon.”
Chambers was scheduled to make her 992 Pro-Am debut this weekend but didn’t hesitate to answer the call from sponsor Monoflo International to drive the team’s No. 77 Cayman GT4 Clubsport when teammate Hinkle was sidelined. Chambers, however, did test the No. 270 Monoflo International Porsche 911 GT3 Cup mid-week at Road America and is expected to still make her race debut before the end of the Sprint Challenge season.
Chambers and her Cayman-class competitors have a couple of twists this weekend. For the first time this season, the Caymans will run three points-paying races rather than the standard doubleheader schedule of two sprints. Another change is that the Caymans share the track in the weekend’s first two races with the 991 Porsche GT3 Cup class, which normally competes at the same time as the 992 division. The third Cayman race, scheduled to wrap up the weekend’s racing Sunday afternoon, features only GT4 Clubsport competitors and is the first of two replacement races for a doubleheader originally scheduled for Mid-Ohio. The second replacement round will be a third Cayman race on the schedule at the Circuit of The Americas race weekend later this month.
Shaun McKaigue was set for his first race at Road America since 2019 in the No. 134 TPC Racing Porsche 991 GT3 Cup but was unfortunately sidelined for the weekend following a contact incident in Thursday’s test session. McKaigue was uninjured in the incident but his Porsche can’t be repaired trackside for the weekend’s racing schedule. Harris Levitas, TPC Racing Director of Race Operations: “The TPC Racing team has been here at the track for more than a week now getting dialed in to the new surface. David Williams is just a couple of points out of the championship lead in the 992 Am class so we are really looking forward to getting out there with some top performances. Chloe Chambers was set to join David in the GT3 Cup category this weekend in her 992 debut but instead drives the Monoflo International No. 77 Cayman after Evan was forced to skip this weekend. Chloe is looking for her fourth Cayman win of the season and is one of the main reasons TPC Racing leads the Cayman Pro-Am team championship by three points heading into this weekend.”
Chloe Chambers, Driver – No. 77 Monoflo International Cayman GT4 Clubsport: “I’ll miss racing alongside one of our usual teammates Evan Hinkle this weekend but I will do everything I can working with the team to make sure Monoflo International makes it to victory lane. I’ve raced at Road America in 2021 in F4 and I showed really good speed. Unfortunately, prolonged safety cars during the three races made racing more difficult, but I’m ready for this new challenge in a different car and of course, the newly repaved surface! Thanks to Monoflo International and TPC Racing for the support and I am looking forward to three competitive races this weekend.”
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.
AM Racing | NASCAR Xfinity Series Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course | Pennzoil 150
Fast Facts
No. 25 AM Racing Team:
Driver: Brett Moffitt
Primary Partner(s): AM Technical Solutions (AMTS)
Manufacturer: Ford Mustang
Crew Chief: Joe Williams Jr.
Spotter: Tony Raines
Chassis Intel: AMR Chassis No. 079
Engine: Roush-Yates Engines
Driver Championship Point Standings: 15th
Team Championship Point Standings: 17th
Notes of Interest:
Fitting In: After spending the past several seasons as a full-time team in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series, AM Racing will embark on its inaugural journey in the NASCAR Xfinity Series this season with driver Brett Moffitt for the entire 33-race tour continuing with Saturday afternoon’s Pennzoil 150 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course.
The race signifies the fifth race of the second half of the 2023 Xfinity Series season for the Statesville, N.C.-based organization.
Future Focused: With AM’s inaugural Xfinity journey set to continue in the Badger State, the team has chosen veteran driver Brett Moffitt to lead the team’s campaign from the driver’s seat aboard the No. 25 Ford Mustang.
Moffitt, a native of Grimes, Iowa hails numerous starts across all three of NASCAR’s National Series, including the 2018 Truck Series championship with Hattori Racing Enterprises.
Moffitt, 30, arrives on the scene at AM Racing after a stint at Our Motorsports.
Partner Intel: The Statesville, N.C.-based team will sport the signage of AM Technical Solutions on the No. 25 Ford Mustang for the 22nd of 33 NASCAR Xfinity Series races this season.
Headquartered in Austin, TX, AM Technical Solutions (AMTS) was founded in 1994.
AM Technical Solutions is a Global Architecture, Engineering & Construction firm specializing in the high-tech markets. AMTS has managed over $20B of global capital projects for over 170 different customers in 24 countries and across five continents.
AM Minute: Last weekend was another busy summer weekend for AM Racing.
In addition to the NASCAR Xfinity Series team being in action at Michigan International Speedway, so was the team’s ARCA program.
ARCA Menards Series rookie Christian Rose qualified his No. 32 West Virginia Tourism | Secure Testing Services Ford Mustang 10th and worked throughout the race to improve the handling of his race car to claim seventh at the checkered flag.
In AM Racing’s Dirt Division, there were in action last weekend at County Line Speedway in Elm City, N.C. where Austin Wayne Self delivered a second-place finish.
This weekend Self is back in action at Fairgrounds Raceway in Boone, N.C.
Thanks For Your Support: With more than 63 percent of the 2023 season complete, AM Racing and Brett Moffitt would like to thank their associate marketing partners for their support: AIRBOX Air Purifier, CForce Bottling Company, Flying Circle, Kreuz Market, Lane Frost Brand, Mechanix Wear and Mobil 1.
AMerican Heroes: NASCAR and its fans have always put Patriotism and American Pride at the forefront of every race weekend. That same passion runs just as deep at AM Racing, a team whose family lineage is deeply rooted in the Armed Forces and First Responders workforce.
We’re a team whose blood bleeds Red, White and Blue every day, which is why we are proud to launch, AMerican Heroes.
At AM Racing, it is our mission to recognize and highlight the men and women who continue to put their lives on the line every day, as well as honoring and paying respect to those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms.
We are a nation that is united by one flag, which represents all the liberties and freedoms that we would not be able to enjoy without the sacrifices of those willing to answer the call.
Continuing with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course this weekend, AM Racing will carry the AMerican Heroes livery, which will continue for the remainder of the 2023 NASCAR Xfinity Series and ARCA Menards Series seasons.
The team will work to salute all the men and women, past and present, who truly deserve the title of Hero, every weekend.
Brett Moffitt Xfinity Series Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course Speedway Stats: Saturday afternoon’s Pennzoil 150 will mark Moffitt’s fourth start at the 2.439-road course.
In his previous three efforts, Moffitt delivered a track-best of 16th after starting 17th for Our Motorsports during the 2022 NASCAR Xfinity Series season.
Brett Moffitt Xfinity Series Road Course Stats: At NASCAR Xfinity Series tracks classified as a road course, Moffitt has made 18 starts throughout his career earning one pole, one top-five and two top-10 finishes. He also holds an average finishing position of 23.8.
Brett Moffitt NASCAR Xfinity Series Career Stats: In 105 career Xfinity Series starts, Moffitt has earned three top-five and 29 top-10 finishes, including a second-place outing at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway in February 2021. During that tenure, he also holds an average finishing position of 17.5.
He earned a career-best Xfinity Series qualifying effort of fourth earlier this year at Las Vegas (Nev.) Motor Speedway with AM Racing.
In addition to 103 Xfinity Series starts, he has achieved 45 NASCAR Cup Series and 92 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series starts to his credit.
Michigan International Speedway | Cabo Wabo 250 Race Recap: In the most recent NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Michigan International Speedway, Brett Moffitt and the AM Racing team chased their seventh top-10 finish of the season.
The weekend started off hot with Moffit practicing his No. 25 AM Technical Solutions Ford Mustang inside the top five.
The team was able to qualify a respectable 12th on Friday afternoon giving the organization a good vibe for the 250-mile race on Saturday.
Unfortunately, from the drop of the green flag, Moffitt was plagued by handling woes. Despite numerous attempts to combat the handling of the race car, Moffitt could never find the balance he was looking for.
Despite the fight for comfort, Moffitt was able to earn a respectable 17th-place lead-lap finish in the Irish Hills of Michigan.
In 21 races this season, Moffit has delivered one top-five, six top-10s, 13 top-15s, 15 top-20s and an average finish of 16.3.
From the Pit Box: Industry veteran Joe Williams is Brett Moffit’s crew chief.
He will be crew chief for his 120th NASCAR Xfinity Series race on Saturday and his fourth at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Grand Prix.
In his previous 119 NASCAR Xfinity Series starts, he has collected one win (Auto Club Speedway | February 2022), eight top-five and 27 top-10 finishes.
Follow on Social Media: For more on AM Racing, please visit AMRacingteam.com, like their Facebook page (AM Racing), or follow them on Instagram and Twitter @AMRacingNASCAR.
For more on Brett Moffitt, please visit BrettMoffitt.com, like his Facebook page (Brett Moffitt Racing), or follow him on Instagram (@brett_moffitt_racing) and Twitter (@brett_moffitt).
Brett Moffitt Quoteboard:
On The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course: “I am optimistic about the Pennzoil 150 this weekend at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course. Our AM Racing team has been able to showcase a lot of speed on the road courses this season, even if we haven’t always been able to transfer that speed into strong finishes.
“I feel confident about this weekend with our No. 25 AM Technical Solutions Ford Mustang. My crew chief Joe (Williams) had a strong performance last year with a top-five finish and I’m confident we can have a similar performance and perhaps even contend for the win on Saturday afternoon.”
On 2023 Season Outlook: “We have just past the halfway point of the 2023 NASCAR Xfinity Series and I feel like we have a lot to be proud of. I believe as the season has marched on, our team has gotten stronger and I believe the results have showcased that.
“We’ve had a little bit of the hiccups the last two weeks, but we are not going to let that detour us from what we have accomplished in our first year together. We are regrouped from Michigan and ready for battle at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course.
“With the Playoffs on the horizon, we are doing everything in our power to either point our way in or fight our way into Victory Lane so we can take up one of the coveted 12 spots and really bring some attention to our AM Racing team.”
Race Information:
The Pennzoil 150 (62 laps | 151.22 miles) is the 22nd of 33 NASCAR Xfinity Series races on the 2023 schedule. Practice begins on Saturday, August 12, 2023, from 9:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Qualifying is set to immediately follow practice beginning at 10:00 a.m. The 38-car field will take the green flag later that afternoon, shortly after 5:30 p.m. with live coverage on the USA Network, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Radio and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. All times are local (Eastern).
About AM Racing:
AM Racing is a multi-tiered, multi-faceted Motorsports program headquartered in Statesville, N.C.
Established in December 2015, AM Racing is prided on faith, honesty and intelligent performance.
The family-owned team will compete in the ARCA Menards Series, the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series, the NASCAR Xfinity Series and various Dirt Modified events in its seventh year of competition.
The team has named Brett Moffitt, Christian Rose and Austin Wayne Self as their primary drivers for the 2023 Xfinity, ARCA Menards Series and Dirt Modified seasons respectively.
PHuntersville, NC – August 11, 2023 – Pratt Miller, a global leader in engineering innovation, is excited to announce its latest acquisition of an advanced Driver-in-the-Loop (DiL) simulator system. Scheduled for installation in the fall of 2023 and operational by January 2024, this state-of-the-art DiL system supplied by AB Dynamics will revolutionize vehicle simulation capabilities for both motorsports and non-motorsports customers.
With a rich tradition of excellence in motorsports, Pratt Miller’s DiL system, originally proven in Formula 1, stands as one of four of its kind in North America and eight in the world.
Drawing from a decade of experience, Pratt Miller boasts unparalleled expertise in DiL system operation and development. The company’s history in NASCAR, IndyCar, IMSA, and WEC demonstrates the company’s proven success in extracting maximum value from DiL technology, resulting in numerous race wins and championships.
While rooted in motorsports, the Pratt Miller DiL system extends its services to both motorsport and non-motorsport users. Customers have the flexibility to integrate their own vehicle models or collaborate with Pratt Miller’s team to develop bespoke vehicle models tailored to their unique requirements. Once requirements and environments are set, the Pratt Miller DiL system empowers teams to collaborate seamlessly on-site and remotely, offering a dynamic platform for innovation and advancement while also ensuring operational efficiency and delivering optimal returns on customers’ investments of time and resources.
“The acquisition of the DiL system aligns perfectly with Pratt Miller’s commitment to driving technological excellence across the markets we serve.” said Matt Carroll, Pratt Miller’s CEO. “The DiL is just one more advanced tool in our product development toolbox, enabling our team to do their jobs faster, better and more efficiently than the day before. And when our team is faster, better, and more efficient so are our customers. It’s quite literally a win, win.”
Jon Plyler, Pratt Miller’s DiL Operations Director, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Pratt Miller’s record of success, both on and off the track, is something we take immense pride in. The DiL system ensures that we maintain a competitive advantage for years to come. Whether in the realm of motorsports or beyond, Pratt Miller remains the go-to solution for truly remarkable engineering.”
About Pratt Miller:
Founded in 1989, Pratt Miller is a groundbreaking engineering and product development company. Our winning roots in motorsports enable us to deliver ingenious solutions to our clients’ most challenging problems — and wildest ideas. That history enables our team of highly adaptive innovators to apply speed, agility, and engineering expertise to every project, swiftly transforming what’s possible in our clients’ industries — taking what they do to the next level and changing their world for the better.
We’ll delve into the science behind pedal assist e-bikes, exploring how they can become your trusted companions in your pursuit of better health. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist looking to enhance your workouts or someone seeking a fun and efficient way to shed those extra pounds, pedal assist e-bikes could be your answer. We’ll uncover the secrets of how these innovative machines can offer effective cardiovascular workouts, contribute to weight loss, and even support joint health—all while keeping you motivated and excited about your fitness routine.
So, saddle up and join me on this journey as we unlock the many benefits of using a pedal assist e-bike for fitness and weight loss. It’s time to pedal your way to a healthier, fitter you!
The Science Behind Pedal Assist E-Bikes
Intrigued by the concept of pedal assist e-bikes? Let’s start by demystifying the technology that powers these modern marvels. At its core, a pedal assist e-bike is designed to augment your pedaling effort, offering just the right amount of electric assistance to make your ride smoother and more enjoyable.
Picture this: as you pedal, a sensor detects the force you apply to the pedals and seamlessly engages the electric motor to provide an extra boost. This means you’re still actively engaged in cycling, but the e-assist technology lightens the load, especially on uphill climbs or during longer rides. It’s like having a trusty co-pilot that lends a hand when you need it most, enhancing your cycling experience without taking away the physical effort that makes cycling so rewarding.
Effective Cardiovascular Workouts
Cardiovascular exercise is the cornerstone of a healthy fitness routine, and pedal assist e-bikes offer an exciting way to elevate your heart rate and get your blood pumping. When you engage the pedal assist mode, you can sustain a brisk pace for longer periods, ensuring a consistent and efficient cardiovascular workout.
Why is this important? Elevating your heart rate helps improve blood circulation, strengthens your heart muscle, and enhances your lung capacity. It’s the key to boosting your overall cardiovascular health, which, in turn, supports your weight loss journey. Plus, who can resist the thrill of effortlessly gliding along as you feel the rush of wind against your skin?
Weight Loss Potential
Now, let’s dive into a topic close to many hearts: weight loss. Pedal assist e-bikes present a unique opportunity to shed those unwanted pounds while having a blast. Here’s the magic formula: by engaging the pedal assist mode, you can tackle longer rides and conquer challenging terrains that might have felt daunting on a traditional bike. As you cover more ground and burn calories, you’re effectively creating a calorie deficit—one of the fundamental principles of weight loss.
But it’s not just about the numbers on the scale. Regular e-bike workouts can help you build lean muscle mass, which, in turn, boosts your metabolism. As your metabolism revs up, you’ll find your body becoming a more efficient calorie-burning machine, even when you’re not on the saddle. It’s like giving your metabolism an extra nudge in the right direction!
Low-Impact Exercise and Joint Health
Are you concerned about the impact of high-intensity workouts on your joints? Pedal assist electric bikes offer a solution. These bikes provide a low-impact way to engage in physical activity, reducing the stress on your joints and muscles. Unlike high-impact exercises like running, which can sometimes lead to joint discomfort, e-biking is gentle on your body while still delivering an effective workout.
This makes pedal assist electric bicycle an excellent choice, especially for individuals with joint sensitivities or those recovering from injuries. You can pedal your way to improved fitness without worrying about straining your knees, hips, or ankles. It’s a win-win situation that allows you to prioritize your health and comfort while achieving your fitness goals.
Motivation and Adherence
Let’s face it: staying motivated to exercise can sometimes be a challenge. That’s where pedal assist electric bicycles truly shine. The seamless assistance they provide can make your workouts feel less arduous, keeping you engaged and motivated to pedal farther and explore new routes. As you enjoy the sensation of effortlessly conquering hills and gliding through urban landscapes, you’ll likely find yourself looking forward to your next ride.
This enhanced sense of enjoyment can have a positive impact on your exercise routine’s consistency. When you’re having fun and experiencing a sense of accomplishment, you’re more likely to stick with your fitness regimen. Electric pedal assist bikes offer a gateway to regular exercise that feels less like a chore and more like an adventure.
Incorporating Fitness into Daily Commute
Imagine a scenario where your daily commute doubles as a fitness session. Pedal assist e-bikes make this a reality, presenting an efficient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional modes of transportation. Whether you’re navigating through city streets or pedaling along scenic paths, your e-assist commute bike can turn your daily journey into a health-boosting adventure.
The beauty of using an e-bike for commuting is that you can customize your effort based on your needs. If you’re in a rush, engage a higher assistance level to arrive at your destination faster. On the other hand, if you’re in the mood for a leisurely ride, dial down the assistance and savor the experience. The choice is yours, and each pedal stroke contributes to your overall fitness and wellbeing.
Customizable Intensity Levels
One of the remarkable features of pedal assist e-bikes is the ability to customize the intensity of assistance. Think of it as having a range of gears at your disposal, each calibrated to match your fitness aspirations. This versatility allows you to adapt your workout to your current energy level, the terrain you’re tackling, or the specific fitness goals you’re aiming to achieve.
For instance, if you’re in the mood for a challenging workout, you can opt for a lower assistance level and rely more on your own pedal power. This approach engages your muscles more intensely, providing a robust workout that helps build strength and endurance over time. On the flip side, when you’re recovering from an intense session or simply want to enjoy a leisurely ride, you can crank up the assistance and cruise along effortlessly.
The ability to fine-tune your workout intensity ensures that pedal assist e-bikes cater to a wide spectrum of fitness levels and preferences. Whether you’re an exercise enthusiast striving to push your limits or someone easing into a new fitness routine, these bikes offer the adaptability you need to succeed.
Outdoor Exploration and Mental Wellbeing
Physical fitness and mental wellbeing are intrinsically connected, and pedal assist e-bikes provide a gateway to both. Engaging in outdoor exercise not only helps you achieve your fitness goals but also offers a refreshing escape from the demands of daily life. The sensation of wind in your hair, the scent of nature, and the beauty of your surroundings can work wonders for your mood and mental clarity.
Research has shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while promoting a sense of calm and rejuvenation. By taking your fitness routine outdoors with a pedal assist e-bike, you’re essentially treating yourself to a holistic wellness experience. Each pedal stroke becomes a step toward physical vitality and emotional balance.
Investing in Your Health
As we journey through the myriad benefits of e-assist bikes, it’s important to recognize the value they bring to your overall health and wellbeing. While the initial investment in an e-assist commute bike may seem like a commitment, it’s essential to view it as an investment in your long-term health. Consider the cost-effectiveness compared to other fitness equipment or gym memberships. With a electric pedal assist bike, you have a versatile and accessible fitness tool at your fingertips, ready to accompany you on countless adventures.
Additionally, the benefits of regular exercise extend beyond the physical realm. Engaging in physical activity releases endorphins—the “feel-good” hormones—enhancing your mood and promoting a positive outlook on life. As you pedal your way to improved fitness and weight loss, you’re also fostering a sense of wellbeing that permeates every aspect of your existence.
Conclusion
So, what are you waiting for? Dust off that saddle, adjust your helmet, and embark on your e-bike adventure. Remember, every revolution of the pedals brings you closer to your fitness goals and a healthier, happier you. As the wind rushes past and the world unfolds before you, your pedal assist e-bike will propel you forward—both on the road and on your path to personal transformation.
Car wheels with many different designs easily make customers wonder which model to choose. So, read the list of the top 10 aftermarket wheel brands in 2023 below!
Introduction
Aluminum alloy wheels generally have better thermal conductivity, anti-corrosion properties and are lighter in comparison with steel wheels, making them the best choice for passenger vehicles. The wheels’ light weight reduces pressure on the tires, balances the car, and allows the suspension to better grip the terrain, thus improving grip.
Based on their market size, brand awareness, and business volume, we list the top 10 aftermarket wheel brands in 2023.
Top 10 Aftermarket Wheel Brand In 2023
COR Wheels
A seasoned specialist created COR Wheels (COR International) to create the best competition and street wheels. Our clients benefited as a result of our passionate acceptance of the danger of achieving engineering heights never before attained.
COR Wheels are designed to be combined with various trims for use on different vehicle platforms.
It allows each car to have its unique style without the time and expense of developing individual wheels. Cor wheels also contribute to better performance by helping to cool the vehicle’s brake rotor.
Looking for top-tier aftermarket wheels? AudioCityUSA is a trusted source for high-quality custom wheels and rims from leading brands like Vossen, BBS, Enkei, and more. With decades of experience and a massive inventory, AudioCityUSA offers expert support and competitive pricing to help you find the perfect wheels for your ride—whether you’re upgrading for performance, style, or both.
Stockton Wheel Service
For more than 100 years, Stockton Wheel Service has offered custom and specialty wheel services. Our artisans restore life to broken wheels and widen your narrow OEM wheels to make them fat and tall, as they are experts in custom wheel repair and widening.
In addition to offering custom wheel services, Stockton Wheel carries an extensive selection of new wheels. Stockton Wheel has the wheel you’re searching for, whether you want a stylish set of Nostalgia Wheels for your Hot Rod or a unique set of Industrial Wheels!
Konig
The criterion of Konig’s products is ‘simple but classy.’ Applicability and romantic appearance are the plus points of Konig Hypergram.
Volk
Regarding flexibility, there is probably no custom wheel manufacturer worldwide that can ‘surpass’ Rays Wheels. With designs that exude a strong, stylish look, the market has ” nailed ” Rays Wheels products exclusively for racing models. The Volk TE37 is a prime example.
Volk TE37 was released to the public in 1996; this wheel model impresses with its compact size of 15 inches and super light weight of 3.7 kg. Not only suitable for racing ‘warriors, ‘ Volk TE37 also helps terrain vehicles increase drift skills.
With superior features and flexible design, Volk TE37 is the ‘inspiration’ for producing rampant fake goods in the market.
American Racing
The flexible design is the unique feature of the American Racing wheel model, which brings a neo-nostalgic beauty to the car regardless of whether it is a muscle car or a racing car.
American Racing Torq Thrust consists of 5 spokes made of high-quality aluminum, sizes from 14-20 inches. It is also a wheel model suitable for drag racing.
In addition to Torq Thrust, two models of wheels that are very popular with customers are American Racing AR39 and American Racing AR767.
Custom Wheels ENKEI offers the latest alloy wheel designs using composite alloy technology, such as the casting/forging process and hardness testing that must pass strict JGTC Standards and superior manufacturing facilities.
The active Enkei Group is throughout Asia, Latin America, North America, and Europe, supplying all of the largest Japanese automakers and General Motors in the OEM market and countless other consumers in the automotive aftermarket.
Enkei also manufactures complex high-tech racing wheels for other motorsports, including drift, racing, motorsport, and single-seater racing.
Ronal
Today, more than 20 million wheels are manufactured by Ronal each year in 11 factories on three continents. Ronal Group is one of the global companies since it s has a presence in Eastern Europe, the NAFTA region, and Asia.
The Ronal LSX features an eye-catching 5-spoke diagonal pattern that will instantly conquer any car enthusiast thanks to its sporty appearance and sophisticated triangular details. The jet-black color of the inner workings further distinguishes its polished face.
The Ronal LSX is a feast for the eyes with its sleek design. Its mesh spokes have been adapted to fit many modern European vehicles, including luxurious BMWs and Mercedes.
In addition to Enkei, Germany’s BBS is another ‘boggart’ of the car wheel tuning world. With a large business scale, BBS “occupies” the entire European and Japanese automobile market.
The BBS Super RS is a classic bold wheel model, the perfect decoration for ’90s models. The cross-spoke multi-spoke wheels are accented with delicately cut diamond details attached.
Around the center circle is the attraction of the Super RS. Later, there were many manufacturers that ‘modified’ BBS Super RS but could not achieve the sophistication of the original.
Vossen
It is no coincidence that the Vossen CVT is counterfeited so much in the global auto market. Vossen’s custom wheels have a sophisticated design, making the car lighter, have good airflow, and make the car move more smoothly.
O.Z
Alloy Oz Racing is an Italian Wheels brand that was founded in 1971. Staying true to its roots, this company pays great attention to details. They focus on providing wheels that perfectly combine performance, quality, and design.
OZ supplies wheels to major motorsport teams in Formula 1, DTM, Indy Car Racing, WRC, and more. This brand has many styles to suit modern applications and designs.
Conclusion
Hopefully, what we share has helped you get more useful information about the top 10 aftermarket wheel brand in 2023.
Each type has its advantages to suit the needs of each customer. Please contact us immediately for more detailed advice on services and to consult the models of super-quality wheels!
The rise of electric bikes has been nothing short of extraordinary, shaping the very future of personal mobility. The technological advancements over the last decade have transformed e-bikes from basic bicycles with electric motors into well-crafted machines designed for practicality and convenience. Some e-bike enthusiasts are going as far as proclaiming that e-bikes can effectively replace traditional cars for everyday commuting and it would be suffice to say, they aren’t wrong. Electric bikes are fast, comfortable, budget-efficient, and environmentally-friendly alternatives to provide everyone with a suitable way of moving around.
In this landscape, Addmotor, a reputable e-bike specialist based in California, has established itself as a key player, known for producing electric two and three-wheelers that seamlessly blend fun, practicality, and affordability. The latest addition to the lineup, the CITYTRI E-310, is a standout folding e-trike, designed with meticulous attention to detail to cater to the needs of daily cycling and commuting routines.
One of the key factors that sets Addmotor apart from its competitors is its commitment to affordability without compromising on quality. The CITYTRI E-310, priced below $2000, showcases the brand’s dedication to making electric transportation accessible to a broader audience. So let’s examine its features and find out what’s in store for us.
Addmotor CITYTRI E-310 Folding Electric Trike Review
#1 Frame Design
The CITYTRI E-310 boasts cutting-edge technology and thoughtful design, making it an ideal choice for urban commuters and outdoor enthusiasts alike. . Addmotor has incorporated high-quality components and a sturdy frame to ensure durability and performance. With an aluminum alloy frame made from 7020 and 6061, the CITYTRI E-310 reflects meticulous attention to details.
Whether it be the CNC Laser Cutting Head Tube or the intuitive folding design frame, the CITYTRI E-310 is an exceptionally well-crafted electric trike. The folding frame allows the electric trike to convert into a compact size to make it portable and easy to store. This feature is especially useful for people that live in small apartments and often face parking space issues.
#2 Comfort & Ergonomics
The step-through frame isn’t only convenient and practical but also provides an ergonomic riding experience. The trike features a comfortable and adjustable seat, ensuring that riders of all sizes can find their perfect fit. With this well-padded seat and backrest, riders can embark on longer journeys and travel for daily commuting without any fatigue.
Its three-wheel configuration offers stability and confidence, making it an excellent option for those new to cycling or seeking a more secure ride. Additionally, the handlebar on the CITYTRI E-310 is also adjustable to provide a comfortable and secure grip.
#3 750W Hub Motor
The electric motor is the heart of any e-bike, and the CITYTRI E-310’s motor packs a punch. With a powerful 750W rear mounted hub motor, riders can effortlessly conquer inclines and cover long distances without breaking a sweat. The motor is capable of providing up to 1400 peak wattage and an impressive 90Nm of torque to provide smooth and swift acceleration on paved roads to attain a maximum of 20mph top speed. The motor is also capable of hauling up to 280+100 lbs of payload capacity with ease. The rear and front baskets are optional and can be bought separately.
The 750W hub-motor can be engaged by either pedal assist or twist throttle. The pedal assist is coupled with an effective speed sensor to provide a smooth and efficient ride. Additionally, the twist throttle allows riders to control the speed of the bike without having to pedal. It is an ideal solution for those who want to get from A to B without pedalling.
#4 Differential
The most impressive thing about this budget-friendly option is the inclusion of differential. The differential divides the power evenly between the two rear wheels and allows for a more comfortable and stable ride. With the addition of a differential, the CITYTRI E-310 performs extremely well while taking corners as both the wheels can spin independently to provide responsive control. Additionally, the differential also makes acceleration and braking more efficient.
#5 Battery Performance & Range
Addmotor has always believed in empowering riders to explore their world freely. Therefore, E-310’s battery capacity is carefully optimized to provide an impressive range of 90+ miles on a single charge in PAS1 mode. The range can vary depending on the type of terrain and PAS level you are riding on. With this exceptional battery performance, commuters can now bid farewell to range anxiety and confidently rely on their trikes for daily transportation without worrying about running out of power mid-journey.
The 48V*20Ah Samsung battery pack is also UL-certified to provide a safe and reliable long-lasting experience. With this UL-certified battery pack , riders can rest assured that their trikes will provide a safe and reliable journey every time. The battery pack is rated for 1000-1500 charge cycles, so the CITYTRI E-310 is designed for years of continuous use. The battery pack is stored internally to protect it from the elements and is easy to remove for charging or storage.
#6 Brakes & Lights
Safety is a top priority for Addmotor, and the CITYTRI E-310 doesn’t disappoint in this aspect. The trike comes equipped with essential safety features, including reliable brakes and responsive lighting. These elements not only enhance the rider’s safety but also contribute to overall confidence and peace of mind while navigating through busy streets or dimly lit paths.
To provide exceptional stopping power, Tektro Mechanical Disc Brakes are used on this innovative e-trike. Moreover, the trike also features parking brakes for convenient parking and dismounting. The EB 2.0 lighting system provides different light modes to provide head light, taillight, hazard light, flash light, and turning signals to ensure you’re well seen in the dark.
The Verdict
To conclude, Addmotor’s CITYTRI E-310 Folding Electric Trike is unquestionably one of the most spec’d electric bike options under $2000 on the e-bike market. The trike’s combination of affordability, reliability, and thoughtful design sets an unprecedented standard for electric mobility. Whether it’s for daily commutes or replacing your car, the E-310 offers an unparalleled riding experience, empowering individuals to embrace a sustainable and exciting way of exploring their world.
RECAPPING MICHIGAN: Kyle Larson scored his series-best 10th top-five finish of the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series season at Michigan International Speedway. The result came over two days of racing at the 2-mile track. Wet weather stopped the race after 74 laps on Sunday and the event was completed on Monday afternoon. Larson earned his fourth straight finish inside the top seven at the Irish Hills and the result moved him up to sixth in the points standings.
ON THIS DATE: This Sunday, Larson will drive the No. 5 HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in the premier series race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course. The 2021 Cup Series champion holds the best finish of all Hendrick Motorsports drivers at the Indianapolis Road Course with a third-place result in 2021. He also won the last Cup race held on Aug. 13th, at Michigan (in 2017).
ROAD READY: Larson has four road course wins in the Cup Series: Sonoma Raceway (2021), the Charlotte Motor Speedway ROVAL (2021) and Watkins Glen International (2021 and 2022). These victories place him in a tie for the third-most road course wins among active drivers. He is also the third-highest contributing driver to road course victories at Hendrick Motorsports, behind NASCAR Hall of Famer Jeff Gordon (nine) and teammate Chase Elliott (seven). Larson has earned the third-most stage wins (five) all-time on road courses. This year, the driver of the No. 5 has earned the third-most points (102) on road courses and is tied for sixth-most fastest laps run during green flag circuits (10) on tracks with left and right turns. Larson is also in a four-way tie for third-most consecutive top-10 finishes on road courses (two), with Elliott.
REGULAR SEASON ROLLS ON: With three races remaining in the 2023 regular season, Larson has earned a spot in the playoffs for the third season in a row. The 31-year-old driver has won two points-paying races (Richmond Raceway and Martinsville Speedway) and the non-points paying All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro. He has claimed a series-leading 10 top-five finishes as well as capturing 11 top-10 finishes and three stage wins. In addition, the Elk Grove, California, native has the second-best average starting position (10.09), led the third-most laps (624), run the fourth-most laps in the top five (2,117), run the fourth-most laps in the top 10 (3,366) and has the fifth-best average running position (12.29).
ON COURSE WITH CLIFF DANIELS: Cliff Daniels, crew chief of the No. 5 HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, has guided Larson to four wins on road courses. Daniels trails only fellow Hendrick Motorsports crew chief Alan Gustafson (seven wins) of the No. 9 for victories on serpentine layouts among active team pit bosses.
INDYCAR UNVEIL: On Sunday at Indianapolis, HendrickCars.com and IndyCar team Arrow McLaren plan to unveil their scheme for Larson’s 2024 run in the Indianapolis 500. The unveil, which will take place in the plaza before the Cup Series race, is the first look at the No. 17 ride for his IndyCar debut. Larson will run the “double,” competing in 1,100 miles of racing over approximately 12 hours between Charlotte Motor Speedway and Indianapolis on Sunday, May 26, 2024.
STREAM AND SHOP: Not at Indianapolis this weekend for the HendrickCars.com No. 17 reveal? No problem. You can live stream the event virtually by tuning in to HendrickCars.com. Follow HendrickCars.com on social media for timing and additional details to be posted later this week. While you’re there, you can browse over 30,000 new, high-quality pre-owned and certified cars, trucks and SUVs available by selecting the category, make, model and vehicle packages that are important to your lifestyle.
EXTRACURRICULAR: In addition to his full-time Cup Series schedule, Larson often races on dirt during the week. This week, he is scheduled to compete in the 62nd Knoxville Nationals competition at Knoxville Raceway, the “Sprint Car Capital of the World.” On Thursday, he will attempt to qualify for the main event, which takes place on Saturday. You can catch the action on MAVTV.com.
HENDRICK AUTOMOTIVE GROUP IS HIRING: Join 10,000+ others nationwide in working at Hendrick Automotive Group. The company is hiring technicians and other positions at its dealerships throughout the country. Positions are open for all skill levels and offer tuition and training reimbursement. Individuals who are interested can apply at HendrickCars.com.
9 CHASE ELLIOTT
Age: 27 (Nov. 28, 1995)
Hometown: Dawsonville, Georgia
Resides: Dawsonville, Georgia
Crew Chief: Alan Gustafson
Standings: 22nd
No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
INDY REWIND: Last year at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course, Chase Elliott started eighth and overcame an early race spin to earn a fifth-place finish in stage one. He followed that up with a fourth-place result in the second stage. In an eventful final stage, the Dawsonville, Georgia, native raced as high as second and was in that spot when a caution came out with five laps to go for debris. On the restart, Elliott was collected in a multi-car incident in turn one but was able to battle his way to 16th after the race was sent into overtime. In the NASCAR Cup Series’ inaugural road racing event at Indianapolis in 2021, Elliott drove to a fourth-place result. In the two races at the 14-turn layout, he holds the best average running position (7.91).
KEEP THE TOP FIVES ALIVE: This season, Elliott has two road course starts in the series and has finished inside the top five in each of them. The 27-year-old driver paced the field for seven laps at Sonoma Raceway en route to a fifth-place result and followed that up with a third-place effort in the inaugural Chicago Street Course race. Elliott’s average finish (4.00) across those two races is the second-best mark in the series.
ROAD RACING RUNDOWN: Since the start of 2022, Elliott’s best finish on a road course is second, achieved at Road America last season. In that span, he has five top-five finishes and six top-10s (tied for second-most) across eight starts on serpentine tracks. The Hendrick Motorsports driver has paced the field for 128 laps on road courses since the beginning of last season, which is tied for the most circuits out front. He has also earned two pole awards (Road America and Watkins Glen International in 2022) and has a series-leading average finish of 7.75. Despite missing the race at Circuit of The Americas in March 2023 due to his leg injury, Elliott has the sixth-most points earned (262) in that span.
LEGEND IN THE MAKING: In 27 Cup Series starts on road courses, Elliott has an average finish of 7.85, with seven wins, 16 top-five finishes and 19 top-10s. His average finish is not only the best among active drivers, but third all-time among drivers (with four or more starts), behind NASCAR legends Fireball Roberts and Buck Baker.
WINNING WAYS: Elliott has proven his road-racing prowess, leading all active drivers with seven wins on road courses – most recently at Road America in 2021. He is also third on the overall list of drivers with road course victories, trailing only NASCAR Hall of Famers Jeff Gordon (nine) and Tony Stewart (eight). Elliott has victories across five different road courses, which is the most in series history.
MEMORABLE MOMENT: Aug. 5 marked the five-year anniversary of Elliott’s first career Cup Series win, which came at a road course. The five-time National Motorsports Press Association’s Most Popular Driver Award recipient emerged victorious at Watkins Glen in 2018, leading 52 of 90 laps.
VIEW FROM THE TOP: Veteran crew chief Alan Gustafson has plenty of experience on tracks where left and right turns are made. Across 48 Cup Series races on road courses, the Ormond Beach, Florida, native has led his team to seven wins (all with Elliott) – a series-high among active crew chiefs – 19 top-five finishes and 26 top-10s.
WIN AND IN: Elliott sits 22nd in the driver points standings, 55 markers below the provisional playoff cutline with three races remaining in the regular season. A victory would lock Elliott into the playoffs and the team is up to the task. Across the three tracks remaining, Elliott and the No. 9 crew have two wins at Watkins Glen, a best effort of second (twice) at Daytona International Speedway and a best finish of fourth at the road course in Indianapolis. Currently, the No. 9 team is in the provisional field for the owner’s title as the team ranks 14th in those standings.
GET UP AND GO: NAPA Auto Parts is back on board the No. 9 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 this weekend at Indianapolis. The Atlanta-based company was the primary partner for one other road course race this season. NAPA’s yellow and blue colors were on Elliott’s Chevrolet when he drove to a fifth-place finish at Sonoma. Get a look at all the angles of the No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet here.
24 WILLIAM BYRON
Age: 25 (Nov. 29, 1997)
Hometown: Charlotte, North Carolina
Resides: Charlotte, North Carolina
Crew Chief: Rudy Fugle
Standings: 3rd
No. 24 Axalta Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
THREE TO GO: With three races left in the regular season, William Byron is third in the NASCAR Cup Series driver points standings, 96 markers behind the leader. While the Charlotte, North Carolina, native is hoping to secure his first Cup Series regular-season championship, he’s still having a career-best season. To this point, Byron leads the series in wins (four), average starting position (9.65), stage wins (seven) and laps run in the top five (2,688). He also has led a single-season career-best 810 laps (second-most). The 25-year-old driver’s eight top-five finishes and 11 top-10s are both tied for the third-most in the sport’s top division. In addition, Byron ranks third in average running position (10.203) and laps run in the top 10 (3,617), respectively.
HISTORY MAKER: While this is only the third time that the Cup Series has competed on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course, Byron has made history at the famed venue. In 2017, Byron made his first trip to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. While battling for a championship, Byron became the youngest driver to win a major race at the historic 2.5-mile oval at 19 years, seven months and 23 days.
WHAT’S IN A NUMBER?: Byron would love to kiss the bricks again this weekend, and if he does, he will add to the already lengthy legacy the No. 24 has at Indianapolis. Dating back to 1994, Jeff Gordon won the inaugural Brickyard 400 before going on to win the crown-jewel event four more times in the No. 24 – the most by a car number at the famed track. A victory would also bring the iconic number closer to the total win mark set by a car number in the Cup Series, currently tied for fourth at 101 wins with the No. 3. The No. 24 is behind the No. 2 with 102 wins, the No. 43 with 200 wins and the No. 11 with 230 wins on the all-time list.
FUGLE FILES: Crew chief Rudy Fugle is set to make his third start on top of the pit box at the Indianapolis Road Course this Sunday. In his two previous starts, Fugle and the No. 24 team captured the pole in the inaugural race in 2021 and have been in contention to win in both showings. In fact, the team has the fourth-best average running position (10.33) in the two races on the road course layout. However, misfortunate has struck the team late, once due to the curbing of the track coming up and the second due to an on-track incident in the closing laps. All told, Fugle has 25 national series starts on road courses (15 in the Cup Series, three in the Xfinity Series and seven in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series). He earned a road course win in the truck ranks in 2015. One of those seven truck starts was also with Byron where the duo raced to a 10th-place finish at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park in 2016.
PIT ROAD PROWESS: After 23 races in the 2023 season, the No. 24 pit crew remains in the top spot with the fastest average four-tire pit stop time of 10.991 seconds. The No. 24 pit crew consists of Spencer Bishop (jackman), Jeff Cordero (front-tire changer), Orane Ossowski (rear-tire changer), Ryan Patton (tire carrier) and Landon Walker (fueler).
BACK HOME AGAIN IN INDIANA: Traveling to Indianapolis, Indiana for this Sunday’s Cup Series race, one crew member of the No. 24 team calls this their home track. Joining the team for the 2022 season, engineer Ryan Kelly hails from Avon, Indiana, just over 10 miles away from the track. An engineering graduate of Purdue University of Indianapolis, Kelly interned at Andretti Autosport, collecting two Indy 500 wins, before transitioning to his role in NASCAR.
AT IT AGAIN WITH AXALTA: For the fourth time in the 2023 season, Axalta will be back onboard Byron’s No. 24 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. This is Axalta’s 31st year of partnership with Hendrick Motorsports. The company has been a primary partner for two of Byron’s wins this year – the May victory at Darlington Raceway and the July triumph at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
48 Alex Bowman
Age: 30 (April 25, 1993)
Hometown: Tucson, Arizona
Resides: Concord, North Carolina
Crew Chief: Blake Harris
Standings: 20th
No. 48 Ally Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
PUSH TO THE PLAYOFFS: With just three races left in the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series regular season, Alex Bowman is currently ranked 20th in the driver points standings. He is 44 markers behind the provisional playoff cutoff line. As it stands now, Bowman needs to gain an average of 15 points per race on the cutline to point his way into the postseason. Despite a 60-point penalty in April and missing three points-paying races in the spring with an injury, Bowman still can make the top 16 for the playoffs. The 30-year-old driver has three top-five finishes, six top-10s and the DAYTONA 500 pole award in 20 starts this season.
ROAD TESTED: Bowman has two runner-up finishes on road courses in his time at Hendrick Motorsports — at the Charlotte Motor Speedway ROVAL in 2019 and Circuit of The Americas (COTA) in 2022. The Tucson, Arizona, native is one of two drivers with multiple second-place showings without a win on this track type. Earlier this year, he finished third at COTA for his fourth career top-five result at a road course.
INDY FLASHBACK: Last year, Bowman pulled double duty at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course, running the No. 17 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet Camaro for Hendrick Motorsports in the NASCAR Xfinity Series on Saturday before Sunday’s Cup Series race. He started the Xfinity race in fourth and finished the first stage in third en route to his runner-up result at the 2.439-mile road course. Bowman will run next weekend’s Xfinity Series race at Watkins Glen International in the No. 17 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevy.
HARRIS IN INDY: No. 48 crew chief Blake Harris has one start atop the pit box at the serpentine layout of Indianapolis. The 36-year-old shot caller’s driver in 2022 started the event in seventh before finishing the 86-lap race in eighth. As a crew chief, Harris has one top-five finish and three top-10s in seven career road course starts.
SAVE THEM ALL: Bowman and primary partner Ally are teaming up this year to bring back the Best Friends Animal Society donation effort. This week, the duo will make charitable contributions to Medical Mutts Service Dogs, which serves the local community in Indianapolis. Bowman and Ally will donate $4,800 to Best Friends and Medical Mutts Service Dogs. Ally will increase its donation to $10,000 if the No. 48 team wins on Sunday.
HOME SWEET HOME: No. 48 team car chief Ty Sipes hails from Bloomfield, Indiana, which is located approximately one hour and 45 minutes southwest of Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Growing up on a small hobby farm, Sipes gained experience racing at local tracks. In 2010, he started working on a small sprint car team traveling in the USAC Series. He earned his mechanical engineering degree from Purdue University in 2012 and later got an opportunity to work with Kasey Kahne’s World of Outlaws sprint car team. He joined Hendrick Motorsports during the latter part of the 2014 season and got his first Cup Series win at his home state track in 2017 on the No. 5 team of Kahne.
HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS /
2023
All-Time
Indianapolis RC
Races
23
1,332
2
Wins
6**
297*
0
Poles
6**
245*
1**
Top 5
27*
1,217*
2**
Top 10
39
2,084*
2
Laps Led
1,560*
78,877*
43
Stage Wins
11**
90
0
*Most **Most (tie)
CLOSING IN ON 300: Hendrick Motorsports is just three points-paying victories away from its milestone 300th win in the NASCAR Cup Series. Twenty drivers have combined to reach the organization’s current total of 297, which is the most Cup Series wins by any team. With six points-paying victories in 2023, the team has posted its 36th multi-win season in the Cup Series while maintaining a streak of at least two per season for the past 30 years. The organization has gone to victory lane at more racetracks (31) than any other active team.
MILESTONE MOMENTS: In addition to 300 Cup Series wins, Hendrick Motorsports is approaching several other major milestones. With 245 pole awards, the team is just five away from 250 at the Cup level. In addition, Hendrick Motorsports engines have recorded 496 NASCAR national series victories and need just four more to reach 500.
INDIANAPOLIS INSIGHT: On the oval layout of Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Hendrick Motorsports won a team-best 10 times. In two races at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course, the organization has a best finish of third (Kyle Larson, 2021).
RULERS OF THE ROAD: With 26 wins, Hendrick Motorsports has the most all-time triumphs on road courses in Cup Series history. The two closest teams in this statistic have combined for only 23 wins. Since its inaugural season in 1984, the organization has won 27.66% of road course events (26 wins in 94 races). The team also tops the board among Cup Series squads on road courses in poles (25), top-five finishes (85), top-10s (144), laps led (2,207) and stage wins (14).
SEVEN UP: Seven different drivers (most by a Cup Series team on road courses) have accounted for the 26 road course wins: Jeff Gordon (nine wins), Chase Elliott (seven wins), Larson (four wins), Tim Richmond (three wins), Jimmie Johnson (one win), Geoff Bodine (one win) and Ricky Rudd (one win).
POINTS MADE: Larson (102 points) and William Byron (96 points) rank third and fifth, respectively, in points earned on road courses in 2023. Thus far, the Cup Series has run three races on serpentine layouts: Circuit of The Americas (COTA), Sonoma Raceway and the Chicago Street Course. There are three road course races remaining on the schedule: Indianapolis (Sunday), Watkins Glen International (Aug. 20) and the Charlotte Motor Speedway ROVAL (Oct. 8).
POLE POWER: In the last eight road course races, Hendrick Motorsports has won four poles. Larson earned the top starting spot at Sonoma in 2022, Elliott got the pole at Road America and Watkins Glen in 2022 and Byron was top qualifier at COTA in 2023.
TOP OF THE BOARD: In the Next Gen car era (2022-present), Hendrick Motorsports has won 17 races, which is five more than any other team. During that span, all four drivers in its lineup – Byron (six), Larson (five), Elliott (five) and Alex Bowman (one) – have notched victories.
QUOTABLE /
Kyle Larson, driver of the No. 5 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, on having his IndyCar ride revealed this weekend: “I’m excited for everyone to see the IndyCar. As far as feelings for running the (Indy) 500, it’s still far out. I’ve really just been trying to focus on the racing I’m doing right now. I’m sure once I get to the offseason and get bored, I’ll be thinking about it more. That’s when I’ll get really excited and probably nervous about it all at the same time. I’m thankful to HENDRICKCARS.COM for their support to the No. 5 team in the (NASCAR) Cup Series and for allowing me the chance to run the double next year as well with Arrow McLaren.”
Cliff Daniels, crew chief of the No. 5 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, on a busy weekend for Larson: “We really enjoy going to Indy (Indianapolis Motor Speedway). With just the history of the track, obviously, it’s just an amazing place. I have a ton of respect for the track, so we always try to just be really thoughtful with what our approach is going there. There is certainly a lot of excitement with the IndyCar unveil for Kyle (Larson), which is great. It’s also the Knoxville Nationals weekend, so he will be commuting back and forth and he’ll be excited about Knoxville, which is a lot of fun. On the Cup (Series) side, we’ve got to be really focused on executing a good race. We’ve been making our road course cars better this year. Hopefully, we take another step of progress in that direction, put a good car out there and execute a good race for him. It’s an exciting weekend and a lot to look forward to.”
Chase Elliott, driver of the No. 9 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, on racing on the Indianapolis Road Course: “For me personally, I feel like it is one of the harder ones, if not the toughest for me. Most road courses that we go to have a little bit of character at some point, little bit of banking or a little bit of something. That place is just flat. Not really a lot of character to the road itself. Imperfections, bumps. Things like that. Just a very flat road course, which I find challenging because it’s hard to find ways to be different.”
Alan Gustafson, crew chief of the No. 9 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, on the team’s outlook for the remainder of the regular season: “Our goal is the same as it’s always been. Go out and execute to the best of our ability, minimize mistakes and be in position to battle for the win at the end. We have three great opportunities coming up to be able to do that and Chase (Elliott) is one of the best at being able to tune out all the noise and focus on the task at hand.”
William Byron, driver of the No. 24 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, on his thoughts for Indianapolis: “I think road course races are somewhere we can improve on this season. We’ve been working hard to do that and I think we’ve made improvements with each one. This weekend is a little bit different since it’s not a traditional road course. It has tight corners and straightaways, which makes for more contact between cars. With that, you can expect the aggression level to increase later in the race and for more people to get into each other to get every position they can. We’ve experienced that before, but hopefully this weekend we put ourselves in the right positions, are able to run the race we want and stay out of harms way to get a good finish.”
Rudy Fugle, crew chief of the No. 24 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, on the mentality of the team this week: “We’ve had a trying couple of races these last few weeks but there’s no quit in this team. We keep bringing fast race cars and doing what we can to get good results, some things just happen though. Indy (Road Course) is another track where we’ve ran well and circumstances at the end have taken us out of contention. We’ll go to the track this weekend, do our normal processes and give it everything we have. Last week is behind us and we’re focused on the three in front of us now.”
Alex Bowman, driver of the No. 48 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, on the final three races in the 2023 regular season: “I think we have a shot each week to win at Hendrick Motorsports. The last few weeks we have run well and just had some bad luck. With the way this season has played out, to even be in the hunt for a spot speaks volumes about this team and how well our season started. We are all going to stay focused on the race we have each week and try to go maximize where we can.”
Blake Harris, crew chief of the No. 48 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, on his expectations for Indianapolis: “Alex (Bowman) has had really good road course races over in the Next Gen car. Looking back at COTA, he has run super strong there. While last year his day was ended early in the Cup car (at Indy), he had a great run in the Xfinity race, so we can build off of his success there and the notes Hendrick Motorsports has as an organization and go try to compete for a win. This team is plenty of capable knocking one down before the end of the season.”
