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Mike Rockenfeller to Drive No. 42 for LEGACY MOTOR CLUB at Indianapolis, Watkins Glen

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Road Course Veteran Mike Rockenfeller to pilot the LEGACY MOTOR CLUB ™ No. 42 Sunseeker Resort Chevrolet at Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course and Watkins Glen

STATESVILLE, N.C. (August 8, 2023) – LEGACY MOTOR CLUB™ has signed two-time 24 Hours of Le Mans winner Mike “Rocky” Rockenfeller of Germany to drive the No. 42 Sunseeker Resort Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for the Aug. 13 NASCAR Cup Series event at Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s Road Course and the Aug. 20 event at Watkins Glen International.

Just hours after a fifth-place finish in the GTP class at Road America in the IMSA Weather Tech SportsCar series, Rockenfeller got the call from fellow NASCAR Garage 56 teammate Jimmie Johnson this week to assist the team for the two upcoming road course events. Johnson and Rockenfeller competed in the IMSA series together for Action Express for two seasons and were both an integral part of the Garage 56 project with Hendrick Motorsports in which they completed the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June along with former Formula One driver Jenson Button.

This will be the first time the veteran sports car racer will compete on the 2.439-mile road course at the storied “Brickyard”; however, the 2010 Rolex 24 At Daytona winner has made two starts in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2022 – at Watkins Glen and at the Charlotte ROVAL. In addition to winning twice at Le Mans, “Rocky” is a three-time winner in the NASCAR Rolex Grand-Am Sports Car Series and won the 2013 DTM championship.

“After racing with Jimmie in IMSA for two years and together in the Garage 56 program not only were we teammates, but we are now great friends,” said Rockenfeller. “To get to race for him in the NASCAR Cup Series for LEGACY M.C. with him as a co-owner is such a true honor. It’s going to be a huge challenge as I have never raced at Indy. I was dreaming about being in a Cup Series car again and I’m thankful for the opportunity. I will try my best in this short timeframe to come together with the team and have a great race in Indy.”

Johnson is excited to welcome his sports car teammate to the Club.

“Rocky and I were teammates and helped develop the G56 program,” said Johnson. “I couldn’t think of a better person to assist our Club in this tough situation. These back-to-back road course events will be great for Rocky from the technical side as they will bring out his expertise. Rocky is extremely knowledgeable and talented, and I know he will get us the best results possible.”

The NASCAR Cup Series’ Verizon 200 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course will take place on Sunday, Aug. 13 at 2:30 pm ET airing on NBC, MRN Radio and SIRIUS XM NASCAR Radio channel 90.

ABOUT LEGACY MOTOR CLUB:

LEGACY MOTOR CLUB is a professional auto racing club owned by businessman and entrepreneur Maurice J. Gallagher and seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion (NCS) Jimmie Johnson. The club competes full-time in the NCS fielding the Nos. 42 and 43. Richard Petty “The King” serves as team ambassador.

In 2021, Gallagher acquired Richard Petty Motorsports and renamed the team to Petty GMS. With the addition of Johnson to the ownership structure in 2023, the organization rebranded to LEGACY MOTOR CLUB (LEGACY M.C.). With a unique title signifying a nod to car clubs of past eras, LEGACY M.C. is an inclusive club for all motorsport enthusiasts to celebrate the past and future legacies of its members, while competing for wins and championships at NASCAR’s elite level.

Based in Statesville, N.C., LEGACY M.C. operates alongside GMS Racing (GMS), which currently fields three full-time entries in the NASCAR Truck Series. Since the formation of GMS in 2012, Gallagher and Mike Beam, team president, have shared incredible success. GMS Racing captured the 2015 ARCA Racing Series championship, the 2016 and 2020 NASCAR Truck Series championships and the 2019 and 2020 ARCA East championships, accumulating over 65 wins across six national racing circuits.

To keep up-to-date with the latest news, information and exclusive content, follow LEGACY MOTOR CLUB on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and at www.LEGACYMOTORCLUB.com.

GMS Racing NCTS Race Preview: Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park

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Official Release
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Race Information

  • Round: NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race No. 17 of 23 (Playoffs Round of 10 opener)
  • Track Location: Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park – Clermont, Indiana
  • Race Name: TSport 200
  • Broadcast: Friday, August 11th at 9:00 PM ET live on FS1 (TV), MRN (Radio), and Sirius XM NASCAR Channel 90
  • Team Entrants:

No. 23 | Grant Enfinger & Jeff Hensley – Champion Power Equipment Chevrolet
No. 24 | Rajah Caruth & Chad Walter – Born Driven Chevrolet
No. 43 | Daniel Dye & Blake Bainbridge – BettenhausenAuto.com Chevrolet

Grant Enfinger, No. 23 Champion Power Equipment Chevrolet Silverado RST
Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park Stats

  • NCTS Starts: 1; Wins: 1 (2022); Best start: 5th; Top 5s: 1; Top 10s: 1; Laps led: 13
  • ARCA Starts: 4; Best start: 4th; Best finish: 4th (2014); Top 5s: 1; Top 10s: 3; Laps led: 26

2023 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Season Stats

  • Starts: 16; Wins: 2 (Kansas I & Gateway); Best start: 2nd; Stage wins: 1; Top 5s: 6; Top 10s: 9; Laps led: 133; Current points position: 5th
  • About Champion Power Equipment: Since 2003, Champion Power Equipment has earned a reputation for designing and producing the market’s finest power equipment. From our original headquarters in Santa Fe Springs, California, Champion has expanded its North American footprint to include facilities in Jackson, Tennessee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Toronto Canada. Today, Champion’s product line has expanded to include portable generators, home standby generators, inverter generators, engines, winches and log splitters. With over 2.5 million generators sold in North America, Champion is a market leader in the power equipment field. Visit ChampionPowerEquipment.com for more information.
  • Chassis History/Info: Enfinger and the No. 23 team will compete with GMS Racing chassis no. 329 at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. And boy, is it a good one. This is the exact same truck that took the checkered flag last time at the historic short track, and also won at World Wide Technology Raceway back in June. In the six times that Grant has driven this truck over the course of the past year-and-a-half, he’s finished inside the top-10 in every race except for one, at Texas last year (where he finished 11th).
  • Defending IRP Race Winner: Last year, the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series made its highly anticipated return to IRP for the first time since 2011. In front of a sold-out crowd, Grant Enfinger put on one of the most memorable finishes of the season in a nail-biting run to the checkered flag. With just seven laps remaining in the race, he led the field when Jeff Hensley made an aggressive call to pit for four tires while most others stayed out or took two. Not to be denied the victory, Enfinger would rocket from 12th place to make the race-winning pass in an overtime finish to take the seventh win of his career.
  • Hensley at IRP: Jeff Hensley has been coming to the short track in IRP for over 40 years, initially making three NASCAR Xfinity Series starts and one ARCA Menards Series start as a driver from 1983 to 1985. Beginning in 1987, he would go on to call 15 NXS races from atop the pit box, gathering a total of two top-fives and three top-10 finishes with driver Chuck Bown, who led 138 laps at the track during a span of three races. When Hensley made the move to the Truck Series, he then went on to win two poles with drivers Mike Skinner in 2007 and Timothy Peters in 2010. Hensley has two top-fives and three top-10s in Truck Series competition leading a total of 105 laps, with Grant being the driver that earned him his first trip to victory lane last year.
  • Road to Phoenix: And then, there were 10… the playoffs are here! Grant Enfinger has secured a spot in the playoffs for the fifth time in his career (tied for second-most of active drivers in the series) The following races at Lucas Oil IRP, the Milwaukee Mile, and Kansas will determine the drivers that move on to the Round of 8. In 2022, Enfinger started white hot at the start of the postseason, locking himself into the next round with a win in the first race. Misfortunate circumstances would plague the team in the following round, resulting in a seventh place finish in the standings. This time around however, the No. 23 group is hungry to advance into the Championship 4, and if Grant is able to do so, it would be the second time in his career that he vies for the title in the final race.
  • FearTheFinger Playoffs Profile: Grant begins the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series playoffs seeded fifth in the points standings with a 15 point buffer to the cut line. 16 events into the 2023 season, Enfinger owns two race victories at Kansas Speedway and World Wide Technology Raceway along with six top-fives and nine top-10s. He is optimistic that the No. 23 team will be a threat to win week-in and week-out, noting that most all of the tracks in the playoffs are solid for the organization.
  • From The Drivers Seat: You’ve got to feel good about returning to IRP after last season, so what did you learn during that race last year that will help your team be even better this time?

“I’m excited to get the playoffs started, and I feel good about starting it out at IRP. Our GMS Racing guys are working hard to bring us just as good of a Champion Power Equipment Chevy as we had last year. I think that IRP is a great track for the Truck Series. It has multiple grooves we can choose, but it’s still a tough short track with a lot of character.”

  • From The Pit Box (Jeff Hensley): If you had to give an overall assessment on where the No. 23 team was last year entering the playoffs compared to this year, what kind of improvements do you think has been made as far as the readiness to contend for the championship?

“Well, we always pride ourselves in being prepared every week. I think back to last year, at the first part of the season, we weren’t able to score that many playoffs points. We hadn’t gotten our first win until we got to Indy, so it was like there was more of a sense of desperation to even get into the playoffs. This year, we won early at Kansas, so that took a little bit of the pressure off our shoulders, and then we won again at Gateway, which really helped our tally. I think we are as prepared as we can possibly be; our trucks are flowing pretty good as far as the preparation for the upcoming races and we’ve been continuing to make them the best they can be. We’re carrying the best trucks in our rotation every week, but we do that anyway, whether it’s playoffs time or not.”

Rajah Caruth, No. 24 Born Driven Chevrolet Silverado RST
Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park Stats

  • Rajah Caruth will make his first NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start at IRP on Friday night.
  • ARCA Starts: 1; Best start: 7th; Best finish: 8th (2022); Top 10s: 1

2023 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Season Stats

  • Starts: 16; Best start: 3rd; Best finish: 6th (Darlington); Top 10s: 1; Current points position: 18th
  • About the Wendell Scott Foundation: Founded in 2011, The Wendell Scott Foundation, Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization inspired by Wendell Scott, Sr. and provides services such as job-skill training, STEM education opportunities, mentoring, and other supportive services to at-risk, underserved youth between the ages of 8-18 years in Danville, Virginia and surrounding areas.

The Foundation’s mission of using educational attainment to end racial disparities in education and health is vital in addressing economic inequality and improving future success in African-American communities. For more information, please visit www.wendellscott.org.

  • Born Driven: In a partnership with the Wendell Scott Foundation, Rajah’s No. 24 Chevrolet will once again sport a paint scheme inspired by the release of their new children’s book. Born Driven is based on the true story of the first African-American NASCAR Driver and Team Owner, Wendell Scott. The book follows Scott as a young boy facing the challenges of growing up in the South trying to chase his dream of becoming a professional race car driver. The uplifting story will teach children how having the persistence and willingness to make a difference can overcome seemingly impossible feats. The book is available for pre-orders at major book retailers such as Barnes and Noble, Books-A-Million, Amazon, Simon & Schuster, and more.
  • Chassis History/Info: Rajah Caruth and the No. 24 team will compete with GMS Racing chassis no. 302 in Indianapolis. “302” has been raced several times since 2017, and has won a pole at Texas Motor Speedway in 2020 and a race at Darlington Raceway in 2021, both delivered by Sheldon Creed. Rajah has driven it twice this season and it has been proven to be fast both times. Caruth nabbed his best-career finish (sixth) with this truck at Darlington in May, and most recently competed with it at Nashville Superspeedway in June, where he qualified his highest (third) and took the race lead before mechanical gremlins sidelined him with a 32nd place finish.
  • Short Trackin’: IRP is the fourth short track to be featured on this year’s CRAFTSMAN Truck Series schedule, and it is one that Caruth has had experience on in the past. Last year was the first start that he made at the historic racetrack, starting seventh and finishing eighth in the ARCA Menards Series event. In the three NCTS short track races this season, Caruth finished 25th at Martinsville Speedway, 34th at North Wilkesboro Speedway after getting swept away in a late-race crash, and most recently 19th at Richmond Raceway.
  • Walter at IRP: Chad Walter has competed in four NASCAR Xfinity Series races at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park during his career, working with some of the most experienced drivers in the business – Kyle Busch, Landon Cassill, and Justin Allgaier. The latter gave Walter his best finish at IRP, a seventh place finish in 2010. Friday will be his first CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start at the 0.686-mile bullring.
  • Richmond Recap: Caruth returned close to home in the last NCTS race at Richmond Raceway, and had quite the local following attend the event. In what was his third time competing at his home track, Rajah would qualify his No. 24 Chevrolet in the 16th position and finish in 19th, posting his eighth top-20 finish so far in his rookie season.
  • From The Driver’s Seat: You’ve said that IRP is going to be one of the more challenging races for you personally, so can you say why that might be the case?

“It’ll be a challenge for me mostly because short tracking isn’t something I consider myself to be exceptional at, meaning I’ve got to put twice as much emphasis on it as an oppose to my big track skill set, which I feel like I’m solid on so far. Certainly my expectations shift from the short to the big tracks. However I know that our team has race-winning pace at this track, as shown last year, so having that knowledge is going to be invaluable. Our Wendell Scott Foundation Born Driven paint scheme has one last ride with us this season, so I’m looking forward to running it again and hopefully we can finish off what we started in Nashville with this truck.”

Daniel Dye, No. 43 BettenhausenAuto.com Chevrolet Silverado RST
Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park Stats

  • Daniel Dye will make his first NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start at IRP on Friday night.
  • ARCA Starts: 1; Best start: 6th; Best finish: 4th (2022); Top 5s: 1; Top 10s: 1

2023 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Season Stats

  • Starts: 16; Best start: 9th; Best finish: 11th (Gateway); Laps led: 5; Current points position: 17th
  • About Bettenhausen Automotive: For over 60 years our family-owned dealership has been committed to providing the best service and sales experience in Chicagoland. At Bettenhausen Automotive, we believe in making you feel at home in our welcoming and hassle-free environment.

The minute you walk through the doors and speak with our friendly non-commissioned sales and service staff, you will come to realize how we became Chicagoland’s “One Price” Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram FIAT dealership since 1992. This has fueled our decision to continue to grow and maintain a level of service that most people have never experienced.

In the spring of 2017, we finished our largest renovation to date, with our new state of the art showroom, offices, and car service center car service center, so that we may better serve our valued customers. With a more spacious showroom, five additional service bays, and more, we have the most customer-friendly dealership in the area. Check out our updated new cars deals and car service specials! We’ll take care of your Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram repair needs and more! Visit www.BettenhausenAuto.com to learn more.

  • Gary Bettenhausen Tribute: Daniel will make local Indiana race fans proud by paying homage to legendary USAC competitor, Gary Bettenhausen, with a paint scheme that resembles his 1983 championship-winning Silver Crown car. The legendary driver was inducted into the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame in 1993 as well as the National Midget Auto Racing Hall of Fame in 1998. Dye will host several members of the Bettenhausen family, who currently own and operate the Chicagoland-based automotive dealership, as honorary guests of the team.
  • Chassis History/Info: Dye and the No. 43 team will compete with GMS Racing chassis no. 335 at IRP, the same truck that just raced last time out. Used primarily as a short track truck, Dye has raced this chassis at Martinsville Speedway (31st due to a late-race spin), North Wilkesboro Speedway (14th), and Richmond Raceway (21st). This chassis has yet to compete at Indy during its tenure with the organization since the truck was built in 2021.
  • Bainbridge at IRP: Blake Bainbridge has two starts as a Crew Chief at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. His first start came in the 2005 NASCAR Xfinity Series race where he worked alongside Mike Wallace, who finished 10th in that race. Fifteen years later in 2020, Bainbridge called the shots for Taylor Gray in the ARCA Menards Series, who had a strong run finishing in the fourth position.
  • Richmond Recap: Though the finishing result wasn’t quite what Dye had been looking for in the previous race at Richmond Raceway, he was able to run a smooth race and bring home the No. 43 Chevy clean, a tough feat at a short track. Daniel qualified in the 18th position and ran inside the top-20 for a long period in the race before he endured a drive-through penalty on the final pit stop of the night. Since the penalty came under green, he lost a lot of ground, but was able to finish in the 21st position.
  • ARCA Short Track Record: IRP was a track that Dye ran well at last season driving for GMS Racing in the ARCA Menards Series. In his one prior start at this track, he started sixth and finished fourth. Dye typically excelled at short tracks during his ARCA tenure, winning at Berlin in 2021, and posting six top-fives and eight top-10 finishes in 12 total starts at tracks under a mile in length.
  • From the Driver’s Seat: Does having a strong finish at this track last year give you an extra boost of confidence heading back to IRP?

“We were pretty fast last year at IRP in the ARCA race. The GMS guys brought us a really fast car, but it was a tricky place to figure out. As the race went on, I figured out how to pass other drivers as we had to kind of come up through the field from where we started. So I’m looking forward to getting back there knowing what I know now. It’s going to be cool to go there with Bettenhausen Automotive and have them on our truck with that cool sprint car throwback paint scheme. Hopefully we can have a good run; the trucks are a bit different than the ARCA cars, so they’ll probably turn a little bit better than how we were last year. Just got to be ready for that and make sure we can finish it off with a good result. Our speed has been building over the last couple of months, but we have to make sure that we can put it all together and finish the race where we run. It’s all going to be about building on it little by little, and continuing to improve on how we unload.”

ABOUT GMS RACING:

GMS Racing competes full-time in the NASCAR Truck Series operating the No. 23, No. 24, and No. 43 Chevrolet Silverado RSTs for drivers Grant Enfinger, Rajah Caruth, and Daniel Dye. Since the team was formed in 2012, GMS Racing has won five titles across multiple series, including the 2016 and 2020 NASCAR Truck Series championship, the 2015 ARCA Racing Series championship, as well as the 2019 & 2020 ARCA East championships. GMS has grown to occupy several buildings located in Statesville, N.C. including operations for GMS Fabrication. The GMS Racing campus also houses operations for LEGACY MOTOR CLUB, a team that competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series.

SOCIAL MEDIA:

To keep up-to-date with the latest news, information and exclusive content, follow GMS Racing on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

BACK-TO-BACK WINS FOR BUESCHER, 9TH WIN IN A ROW FOR FORD PERFORMANCE AT MICHIGAN

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BROOKLYN, MI – August 8, 2023 – Ford Performance and Roush Yates Engines won their ninth straight NASCAR Cup Series race at Michigan International Speedway with Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing’s Chris Buescher in the FireKeepers Casino 400. This victory marked 724 all-time wins for Ford Performance and back-to-back wins for Chris Buescher and RFK Racing. Ford retained the Michigan Heritage Trophy, presented to the winning manufacturer at the 2-mile track.

“Congratulations to Ford Performance, Jack, Brad, Scott, Chris, and everyone at Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing on back-to-back wins and Ford’s continued success at Michigan,” said Doug Yates, President and CEO of Roush Yates Engines. “We are thankful for the continued leadership and commitment from Ford Motor Company. To win at their home track is monumental.”

“I am so proud of everyone at RFK and what we have been able to accomplish these last few years. To get it here at Ford’s home track, this one is always big. It is Jack’s home track and Brad’s home track and this is where we needed one. To fight for it and have such a clean race there with Truex at the end, he was really close to getting us at one point. We had to keep digging on it. I am really proud of everybody. That was awesome to put our Castrol Edge Mustang in victory lane here at Michigan and we have road courses coming up, I am really excited for those,” commented Buescher.

The FireKeepers Casino 400 was originally scheduled for Sunday but postponed to Monday due to persistent delays for inclement weather. Throughout the race, there were a total of nine cautions for 43 laps, 25 lead changes and 16 different race leaders. Chris Buescher, who started the race in 4th, took the lead for the first time on lap 133 and didn’t back down. After the last round of pitstops, the race came down to a battle between Buescher and Martin Truex Jr. Buescher capped the day by leading a race-high 52 of 200 laps and winning over Truex Jr. by 0.152 seconds. Buescher’s win marks Ford’s 44th Cup win at Michigan International Speedway and extended the longest winning streak by a manufacturer at a track.

Roush Fenway Keselowski teammates Chris Buescher and Brad Keselowski finished in P1 and P4 while Stewart-Haas Racing’s Kevin Harvick finished in P8 and Team Penske’s Ryan Blaney finished in P9.

The NASCAR Xfinity Series also raced at Michigan on Saturday. Stewart-Haas Racing’s Riley Herbst finished in P6.

Both the NASCAR Cup and Xfinity Series head to the Indy Road Course in Indianapolis, Indiana this weekend.
35 CHAMPIONSHIPS – 452 WINS – 417 POLES

*Photos courtesy of NASCAR Media & Getty Images

About Roush Yates Engines
Roush Yates Engines is a leading-edge engine development company based in Mooresville, NC consisting of two state-of-the-art facilities – Roush Yates Engines and Roush Yates Manufacturing Solutions, a world class AS9100 Rev D/ISO 13485 certified CNC manufacturing facility. The company’s core business includes designing, building and testing purpose-built race engines.

Ford Performance in partnership with Roush Yates Engines is the exclusive engine builder of the NASCAR FR9 Ford V8 engine and Ford Mustang 5.2L V8 engine, used in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge series.

With an unparalleled culture of winning and steeped in rich racing history, Roush Yates Engines continues to follow the company’s vision to lead performance engine innovation and staying true to the company’s mission, provide race winning engines through demonstrated power and performance.

Hennessey Reveals Stunning Venom F5 ‘Revolution Roadster’ Hypercar in Bare Carbon

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Official Release
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  • The new limited-production variant combines extreme open-air motoring with a racing circuit focus — follows last year’s roofless Venom F5 Roadster premiere and this year’s debut of the track-ready Venom F5 Revolution Coupe
  • Priced from $3 million, the Venom F5 Revolution Roadster is limited to just 12 units worldwide — production is sold out
  • Fitted with Hennessey’s 1,817 bhp twin-turbocharged ‘Fury’ combustion-only V8 powertrain, mirroring other Venom F5 models
  • Making its global debut at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering, on August 18, 2023
  • Image Link – High-resolution dynamic and static images of Hennessey Venom F5 Revolution Roadster
  • Video Link – Hennessey Venom F5 Revolution Roadster

SEALY, Texas, Aug. 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hennessey Special Vehicles, the Texas-based hypercar manufacturer, presents the global debut of the new Venom F5 Revolution Roadster hypercar, revealed in exquisite, exposed carbon fiber. The Revolution Roadster follows last year’s premiere of the roofless Venom F5 Roadster and this year’s debut of the track-ready Venom F5 Revolution Coupe, combining the best traits of both models – visceral open-air motoring with a racing circuit focus.

The new Venom F5 Revolution Roadster is comprehensively re-engineered from its Coupe sibling for ultimate performance on the road and track with improved agility, uncompromised handling, and higher downforce. A suite of track-focused improvements includes aerodynamic enhancements — significantly larger front and rear splitters, dive planes on the front fascia, and a distinctive rear wing — retuned suspension, new wheels, and digital track telemetry. The Revolution Roadster features a high-mounted central air scoop, carried forward from the Revolution Coupe, that delivers fresh cool air to the F5’s engine bay.

Differentiating from the Coupe model, the F5 Revolution Roadster’s roof has been re-engineered with a removable panel crafted from rigid carbon fiber composites. The single-piece roof is fully insulated against the elements and lined with soft Alcantara upholstery (the weatherproof panel is secured with four quick-release bolts and a pair of high-strength latches to withstand the hypercar’s staggering acceleration capabilities and aerodynamic forces at extreme speed). The lightweight roof panel weighs a mere 18 lbs (8 kg), making removal and installation easy for one person.

Paralleling all other Venom F5 models, mid-mounted in the carbon-fiber monocoque chassis is Hennessey’s celebrated twin-turbocharged, 6.6-liter, ‘Fury’ V8 combustion engine rated at an astonishing 1,817 bhp. As with the F5 Roadster, the Venom F5 Revolution Roadster features a robust tempered glass engine viewing window as standard to spotlight the formidable powerplant. The glass, about four times stronger than ordinary annealed glass, is encapsulated within a removable carbon fiber engine cover that features intricately milled heat extraction holes that match those in the rear bumper.

The debut of the Venom F5 Revolution Roadster at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering, reveals the first of five limited-edition ‘Bare Carbon’ models. Each individually commissioned hypercar of this series boasts a hand-placed carbon-fiber weave methodically arranged in a herringbone pattern to accentuate the F5’s graceful lines. A deeply polished clearcoat protects the exposed composite, while bright opaque paint offers stunning visual contrast from every angle.

John Hennessey, company founder and CEO: “The new Venom F5 Revolution Roadster combines our track-focused hypercar with an open-top for an unmatched visceral driving experience. This first example, a bespoke build for a special client, debuts our bare carbon finish with its meticulous handcrafted exposed carbon-fiber weave. Our hypercar is a timeless work of art that is as visually inspiring as it is physically engaging, thanks to its 1,817-hp combustion-only twin-turbocharged V8.”

The Revolution Roadster is the fourth model to join the Venom F5 family. Each of the 1,817 bhp variants shares the same decathlete mission — uncompromised acceleration, braking, and handling — yet all have been individually engineered for a specific mission. The sold-out F5 Coupe targets ultimate top speed. The open-roof F5 Roadster delivers a visceral experience, and the F5 Revolution is track-focused. At the same time, the new F5 Revolution Roadster combines these models’ best traits — combining visceral open-air motoring with a racing circuit focus.

The new Venom F5 Revolution Roadster will make its global public debut on August 18 at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, during Monterey Car Week 2023. Priced from $3M and limited to just 12 units — production is sold out —exclusivity is an understatement.

About Hennessey Special Vehicles
The Hennessey Special Vehicles team was formed to create the world-record-breaking hypercars, the Hennessey Venom GT (270.49 mph in 2014) and the current world-record-holding ‘fastest convertible’ the Hennessey Venom GT Roadster (265.5 mph in 2016).

In 2020, Hennessey Special Vehicles launched the 100% bespoke, twin-turbocharged, 6.6-liter V8 Venom F5 Coupe, which sold out in 2021. An open-top Roadster and track-focused Revolution variant joined the F5 Coupe in 2022 and 2023, boasting the F5’s prodigious 1,817 bhp ‘Fury’ engine. In mid-2023, the Texas-based company revealed the Venom F5 Revolution Roadster, which combines visceral open-air motoring with a racing circuit focus. The company is delivering like never before on its mission of ‘making fast cars faster.’ HennesseySpecialVehicles.com

Social media
Instagram: HennesseySpecialVehicles / HennesseyPerformance | YouTube: HennesseyPerformanceF5 | Facebook: @hennesseype | X: @HennesseyPerf

Mobil 1 Racing: Kevin Harvick Indianapolis Advance

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Official Release
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KEVIN HARVICK
Indianapolis Advance
No. 4 Mobil 1 Ford Mustang for Stewart-Haas Racing

Event Overview

● Event: Verizon 200 at the Brickyard (Round 24 of 36)

● Time/Date: 2:30 p.m. EDT on Sunday, Aug. 13

● Location: Indianapolis Motor Speedway

● Layout: 2.439-mile, 14-turn road course

● Laps/Miles: 82 laps / 200 miles

● Stage Lengths: Stage 1: 15 laps / Stage 2: 20 laps / Final Stage: 47 laps

● TV/Radio: NBC / IMS Radio Network / SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Notes of Interest

● In a year full of tributes to Kevin Harvick’s final NASCAR Cup Series season, Harvick and Mobil 1 are paying tribute to Tony Stewart – the “Stewart” in Stewart-Haas Racing. When Stewart made his last start at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in the 2016 Brickyard 400, he ran a Mobil 1 paint scheme where the brand’s signature red Pegasus wings adorned his white racecar. That design has been brought back for Harvick’s final Cup Series race at Indianapolis, where Stewart will be on hand in his role of team owner.

● The Verizon 200 at the Brickyard on Sunday at Indianapolis marks the fourth of six road-course races on the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series schedule. Harvick finished 13th in the first road-course race of the year March 26 at Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas, 11th June 11 at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway, and 29th in the series’ inaugural street race July 2 in downtown Chicago. After Indianapolis, a more traditional road course greets Cup Series drivers Aug. 20 at Watkins Glen (N.Y.) International before the final road-course race of the season Oct. 8 at the Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway Roval.

● Despite running the road course at Indianapolis, Indy is still an oval thing for Harvick. The venerable 2.5-mile rectangle hosted 27 NASCAR Cup Series races, and Harvick competed in 20 of them, putting up impressive numbers in the crown-jewel Brickyard 400 – three wins, three poles, eight top-fives and 14 top-10s with 389 laps led. The only other active Cup Series driver even close to those numbers is Kyle Busch with two wins, two poles, five top-fives and 12 top-10s with 324 laps led. Harvick also holds the title of reigning Brickyard 400 winner, a title he has held for four years. Harvick won the last two Brickyard 400s (2019-2020) before the Cup Series switched to the road course in 2021.

● Harvick has made a total of 58 NASCAR Cup Series starts on road courses. He has 22 starts at Sonoma, 21 at Watkins Glen, five at the Charlotte Roval, three at COTA, two apiece at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, Indianapolis and the road course at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway, and one on the Chicago Street Course. He has scored two road-course wins – Watkins Glen in 2006 and Sonoma in 2017 – along with 12 top-fives and 27 top-10s with 199 laps led.

● When Harvick scored his first road-course victory at Watkins Glen in 2006, he had to beat his current team owner to do it. Stewart had won the previous two NASCAR Cup Series races at The Glen and was poised to capture a third straight win as he was leading Harvick with four laps to go in the 90-lap race. But Harvick, who had already led once for 24 laps, passed Stewart on lap 87 as the two drag-raced down the frontstretch and into turn one. Harvick held onto the lead despite Stewart in his rearview mirror, earning a margin of victory of .892 of a second.

● Harvick’s second career road-course win also had a connection to Stewart. When Harvick won at Sonoma in 2017, he gave Stewart-Haas Racing its second straight victory at the 1.99-mile, 10-turn road course. The winner in 2016? None other than Stewart. It ended up being his 49th and final NASCAR Cup Series victory as Stewart retired from NASCAR racing at the conclusion of the season.

● Harvick’s last road-course win was his first in a Ford. When Harvick won at Sonoma in 2017, he became the 83rd different driver to win a NASCAR Cup Series race behind the wheel of a Ford. Harvick has now won 25 Cup Series races with Ford, which makes him one of only 13 drivers to win 20 or more races with the manufacturer. He stands 10th on Ford’s all-time win list and is now only one win away from tying Brad Keselowski, Junior Johnson and Fred Lorenzen for ninth. Harvick has won more races driving a Mustang (15) than any other driver since the iconic muscle car became Ford’s flagship model in 2019.

● Harvick has four road-course wins outside of the NASCAR Cup Series. Two came in the NASCAR Xfinity Series – Montreal’s Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in 2007 and Watkins Glen in 2007. And two were in the NASCAR Winston West/K&N Pro Series West – Sonoma in 1998 and again in 2017. The 1998 win at Sonoma was three years before his Cup Series debut on Feb. 26, 2001 at North Carolina Speedway in Rockingham.

● Turning left and right. Going up and down through the gears. Hitting the apex of corners and, sometimes, riding the curb with such force that it puts the car on two wheels. It’s all a part of road-course racing, and it demands maximum performance from every part and piece on the racecar. Harvick has an added advantage with Mobil 1. Not only is the world’s leading synthetic motor oil brand the primary sponsor of his No. 4 Ford Mustang at Indianapolis, Mobil 1 products are used throughout his racecar and they extend beyond just engine oil. Power steering fluid, transmission fluid, gear oil and driveline lubricants from Mobil 1 give Harvick a technical advantage over his counterparts by reducing friction, heat and rolling resistance. Mobil 1 is a sponsor whose technology makes Harvick’s No. 4 Mobil 1 Ford Mustang faster.

Kevin Harvick, Driver of the No. 4 Mobil 1 Ford Mustang

What are some of your favorite memories of driving at Indianapolis?

“Well, my favorite memories are going in the right direction on the front straightaway. We won the last two races that we ran on the oval, so we’re definitely way bigger fans of the oval than we are the road course. And for me, growing up as a kid and being able to almost accomplish your childhood dreams – I grew up a Rick Mears fan and wanting to race at the Indy 500 – so driving in and doing my first test at the speedway and being able to be in the environment, on that racetrack, and see all the things that you saw as a kid and live that out, and go to victory lane and do all of the things and accomplish all the things that we’ve been able to accomplish there is really neat. Indy’s always a special place for me, and I think as we go back this year, it will be one of the places that you look at and say, ‘Man, I wish we could’ve raced on the oval the last three years,’ but I also enjoy going there and enjoy the environment and enjoy the things that you think about and everything that you grew up wanting to do is a reality there, and so you look at that so many years later, it’s pretty awesome to be able to say you’ve done the things that you’ve done there.”

When it comes to Indianapolis, you’ve been clear that you prefer its 2.5-mile oval over its 2.439-mile, 14-turn road course. What is it about the oval that resonates with you?

“It’s definitely an oval thing for me. Driving through that tunnel and understanding the history and everything that comes with racing on the oval at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is something that I always looked forward to. When you look at the oval and you look at the history of the racetrack and everything that comes with that – some guys may not have grown up like that, so some people will have a much different opinion – but for me the oval just holds a huge place in racing and it holds a huge place in the things that I looked forward to every year. I remember the first time I pulled in there for a test in 2001 and you roll into the racetrack and you think, ‘Man, I just accomplished everything in my childhood dreams, rolling into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.’ Getting to go out on that racetrack and hearing the echoes of the cars through the grandstand is something that I’ll never forget.”

You’ve got three Brickyard 400 wins, including the last two at the oval. What are your thoughts going into Indy one final time?

“Indy’s a special place, and obviously I’d rather race on the oval. But the good news is I won the last two on the oval, so I’ll always go out a winner on the oval. That feels good to me because Indy’s always been a pretty special place because of growing up a Rick Mears fan and wanting to race at the Indy 500 and all of the things that I wanted to do as a kid.”

Talk about the time you first got to be at Indy and compete on the same track that you had watched another famous racer from Bakersfield, California, Rick Mears, compete?

“Those moments were really neat because, the first year I ran the Cup car, I was able to go test there. I could kind of take in – all the things that you’ve seen on TV – and put them in perspective in real life and then make actual laps around the racetrack. Winning in 2003 was one of the neatest moments because, at that time, you still did the victory lap in the back of the pace car and the fans there were really knowledgeable about everything that was going on, and you were able to just take that all in. And really, for me, kind of living out your childhood dream was pretty neat. Indy’s just a special place, and for me to live that out as an adult, what you dreamed about as a kid, was pretty special.”

That moment riding in the back of the convertible pace car when you won your first Brickyard 400 in 2003, can you explain what you’re seeing, hearing and feeling?

“The fans, they’re so racing-educated at Indianapolis, and they know the procedures of the event and the things that happen, and to see that many fans stay after the race is not normal. But they know that victory lap is coming, so to ride with Richard (Childress) and DeLana and Kevin Hamlin (crew chief) in the pace car at that particular time was just something that you’ll never forget. You don’t do it anymore, so it’s not so special because you don’t do those laps anymore, but it’s something that I’ll always vividly remember.”

Are you proud of the fact that you won at Indy in those halcyon days of NASCAR and got to enjoy all those moments?

“I think when you look back at sporting events in general, they were just different at that particular time, especially here in NASCAR. It’s different than what it was – 50,000 people is not 150,000 people – and for me, I came through this sport at a great time when I got to race against, really, almost two generations of guys before me. And now I’m part of two or three generations of guys that have come in that’ll still be here when I leave. I got to race against so many generations of competitors, in different generations of cars, where racetracks evolved along with all the race vehicles. So, I was really lucky to come through and see the magnitude of the growth of the sport and the height of the sport. The list of competitors that I’ve been able to compete against is pretty neat.”

If the NASCAR Cup Series were to return to the oval, do you see yourself coming out of retirement to run that race one more time?

“No. I think my racing at the top level is done. I realize that there’s no possible way that you can jump in and out of things and be competitive, and the way that we’ve always gone about things throughout the years, whether it was a Late Model race or a Cup race is to be prepared and always give yourself the best opportunity to be competitive. I definitely don’t anticipate any scenario that puts me in a Cup car or an Indy car or anything like that. There may be some Late Model races or Xfinity races or Truck races here and there, but to be competitive at the highest levels, you have to do it every week and, for me, that time will be over when we get to Phoenix at the end of the year.”

No. 4 Mobil 1 Team Roster

Primary Team Members

Driver: Kevin Harvick

Hometown: Bakersfield, California

Crew Chief: Rodney Childers

Hometown: Mooresville, North Carolina

Car Chief: Robert “Cheddar” Smith

Hometown: Whitewater, Wisconsin

Engineer: Stephen Doran

Hometown: Butler, Pennsylvania

Engineer: Dax Gerringer

Hometown: Gibsonville, North Carolina

Spotter: Tim Fedewa

Hometown: Holt, Michigan

Over-The-Wall Members

Front Tire Changer: Daniel Coffey

Hometown: Granite Falls, North Carolina

Rear Tire Changer: Daniel Smith

Hometown: Concord, North Carolina

Tire Carrier: Jeremy Howard

Hometown: Delhart, Texas

Jack Man: Brandon Banks

Hometown: High Point, North Carolina

Fuel Man: Evan Marchal

Hometown: Westfield, Indiana

Road Crew Members

Mechanic: Tyler Trosper

Hometown: Mooresville, North Carolina

Mechanic: Nick DeFazio

Hometown: Orange, California

Tire Specialist: Jamie Turski

Hometown: Trumbull, Connecticut

Engine Tuner: Robert Brandt

Hometown: Mobile, Alabama

Transporter Co-Driver: Rick Hodges

Hometown: Raleigh, North Carolina

Transporter Co-Driver: Stephen Mitchell

Hometown: Woodville, Ohio

Daniel Dye to Honor Auto Racing Legend Gary Bettenhausen with Unique Throwback Paint Scheme at IRP

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Official Release
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STATESVILLE, NC (August 7, 2023): GMS Racing is very pleased to announce that the No. 43 Chevrolet driven by Daniel Dye will have a special tribute paint scheme to Gary Bettenhausen, 1983 USAC National Champion, when the series visits Indianapolis Raceway Park on Friday, August 11. Title sponsorship for the event will be Bettenhausen Automotive, known as “Chicago’s Best Dealership.”

The Bettenhausen family, with roots in racing that trace back to patriarch Merle and extend to sons Gary and Tony, has left an indelible imprint on the motorsports world. Among them, Gary Bettenhausen emerged as a significant figure in American racing, carving a career that cut across multiple series over numerous decades. Gary’s most enduring legacy rests in the world of open-wheel racing. Between 1968 and 1993, Gary competed in the prestigious Indianapolis 500 21 times, achieving his highest finish of third place in 1980. His contributions to motorsports remain a testament to the Bettenhausen family’s enduring influence on the sport.

“It’s such an honor to have the opportunity to drive a race truck themed after one of racing’s icons in Gary Bettenhausen,” remarked GMS Racing driver Daniel Dye. “The entire Bettenhausen family has such a strong legacy in motorsports, and to have their automotive group and paint scheme on our No. 43 Chevy at IRP is so cool. So much happened before I was around in this sport, and to be a small part of a tribute is pretty cool.”

As the primary sponsor on the No. 43 truck, BettenhausenAutomotive.com‘s involvement signifies a beautiful blend of motorsports passion and dedication to automotive excellence. The partnership demonstrates a mutual commitment to innovation, high performance, and the rich history of motorsports.

“We are honored to partner with Daniel and Randy Dye, and to be onboard the No. 43 GMS Racing truck for the race in Indianapolis this Friday night,” said Mike Bettenhausen, President of Bettenhausen Automotive. “With a rich family history in racing in Indy and throughout the Midwest, this opportunity is a perfect fit for us. We can’t wait to cheer on the red and white tribute scheme that will be on Daniel’s 43.”

Fans can see the Bettenhausen Automotive No. 43 Silverado RST at Indianapolis Raceway Park on Friday, August 11th. Coverage will be live on FS1, MRN, and SiriusXM, with additional coverage through GMS Racing and Daniel Dye social media platforms.

Buescher Scores Back-to-Back Wins as RFK Dominates at Roush ‘Hometrack’ at Michigan

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Official Release
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RFK Fords Combine to Lead 67 laps, Place Both Cars in Top Five at MIS

BROOKLYN, Mich. (Aug. 7, 2023) – RFK Racing’s Chris Buescher turned in one of the strongest performances of his NASCAR career, leading a race-high 52 laps and holding off a charging Martin Truex Jr. to win Monday’s rain-delayed NASCAR Cup Series race at Michigan International Speedway.

“I am so proud of everyone at RFK and what we have been able to accomplish these last few years,” said Buescher after his second consecutive trip to victory lane. “It is Jack’s home track and Brad’s home track and this is where we needed one.

“To fight for it and have such a clean race there with Truex at the end,” added Buescher. “We had to keep digging on it. I am really proud of everybody. That was awesome to put our Castrol Edge Mustang in victory lane here at Michigan and we have road courses coming up, I am really excited for those.”

The win marked a record 14 for Hall of Fame team owner Jack Roush at his home track at Michigan.

Buescher’s teammate and team co-owner Brad Keselowski finished fourth, while leading 15 laps and further solidifying his position in the 2023 playoff standings; moving to eighth in the point standings with three races remaining before the cutoff.

“We’re letting our results speak for themselves,” said Keselowski. “Chris has done a heck of a job driving the car. When you get win, it feels really good. I’m very happy for all the folks at Castrol and RFK. There’s a lot of work going on here. We’re digging deep, getting the results. I’m so thankful and proud for everyone at RFK.”

17 Recap
Buescher started the race from the fourth spot – a career-best qualifying effort at the two-mile facility. He finished the opening stage in 11th – on Sunday – before the race resumed Monday at lap 82. He went on to finish 10th in the second stage, and stayed out under that stage break.

That strategy paid off as Buescher inherited the lead to begin the third stage. He held on to it until his green-flag pit stop with 43 to go. With the late-race cycle playing out, the race came down to a battle with he and the hard-charging No. 19.

The two broke through as 1-2 in the running order as Buescher took the lead back on lap 182, and led 27 of the final 28 laps en route to his fourth-career Cup win, and second straight.

6 Recap
Keselowski’s day began from the 12th positon as he ended the first stage in fourth, earning stage points en route to what was a solid points day for the NEXLIZET Ford Mustang.

He ran seventh when the race was postponed on Sunday, and restarted fifth once the race resumed Monday. With varying race strategies playing out, Keselowski remained on track and finished the second stage in third, earning more valuable stage points.

He began the third stage in the lead, and went on to lead 15 laps in total. His final pit stop came with 25 to go as he pitted from the lead, and despite the green-flag sequence, went on to pick off multiple cars in the closing laps to a strong top-five effort.

Up Next

The road course at Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the next stop on the Cup Series schedule, with race action next Sunday set for 2:30 p.m. ET. TV coverage will be on NBC, with radio coverage on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

Team Penske NASCAR Cup Series Race Report – Michigan

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Official Release
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MICHIGAN INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY

RACE: FIREKEEPERS CASINO 400 DATE: AUGUST 7, 2023

AUSTIN CINDRIC No. 2 DISCOUNT TIRE FORD MUSTANG

START: 21ST STAGE ONE: 21ST STAGE TWO: 9TH FINISH: 12TH POINTS: 21ST

RACE RUNDOWN: A two-day racing extravaganza at Michigan International Speedway concluded with a 12th-place finish for Team Penske driver Austin Cindric Monday afternoon. After the No. 2 team resolved an electrical issue in practice on Saturday, Cindric took to the two-mile track for qualifying, claiming the 21st starting spot. With inclement weather hovering over the Brooklyn, Michigan, track Sunday afternoon, the start of the FireKeepers Casino 400 was slightly delayed. Once the green flag flew, Cindric made his first trip to pit lane under caution on lap 35 for four tires, fuel and an adjustment after reporting a tight-handling Discount Tire Ford Mustang. After finishing 21st when the flags flew signaling the end of Stage 1, Cindric stayed out and restarted 10th for the beginning of Stage 2. As another caution slowed the field on lap 65 with Cindric in the sixth position, he alerted his crew that the car needed to be freed up a bit. Crew Chief Jeremy Bullins called the driver to pit road for right-side tires and fuel. Just a handful of laps after the restart, the rain returned, forcing the red flag to be displayed for over 19 hours. The race resumed just past noon on Monday when pit road opened for service prior to the restart. Cindric stayed out and chose the inside lane, restarting on the front row when the green flag flew for the first time Monday on lap 83. Having received right-side tires during the last pit stop, the sophomore Cup Series driver steered his Ford Mustang to the attention of his pit crew under caution on lap 104 for left-side tires and fuel. Cindric restarted 13th, but gained a few spots to finish Stage 2 in the ninth position. Bullins orchestrated another two-tire stop (right sides), gaining the driver seven positions on pit road. As a collection of cars stayed out, Cindric restarted 11th on lap 127 and maintained great pace through the ensuing run, making his final service stop on lap 166. When the checkered flag flew, the 24-year-old racer was scored in the 12th position.

CINDRIC’S THOUGHTS: “Really solid day in the Discount Tire Ford Mustang. Had some great speed and great drivability. I don’t know if we were fast enough to win the thing today, but I had a car that I could put anywhere on restarts, get track position and be aggressive. I thought we were taking right-side tires on the final stop and I tried to leave the pit stall and lost us a ton of time under green. I’m upset about that; it should have been an easy top-10 finish for us. Overall, most of the race was done really well. We still have three more chances to win [to get in the playoffs].”

RYAN BLANEY No. 12 MENARDS/KNAUF FORD MUSTANG

START: 9TH STAGE ONE: 16TH STAGE TWO: 13TH FINISH: 9TH POINTS: 10TH

RACE RUNDOWN: Ryan Blaney started Sunday’s FireKeepers Casino 400 from the inside of row five and kept the Menards/Knauf Ford Mustang steadily in the top 10 for the opening run of the afternoon. On lap 14, Blaney avoided trouble when the No. 8 spun underneath him in turn one to bring out the first caution of the day. The No. 12 team kept Blaney on the track under caution, allowing him to restart sixth before breaking into the top five on the ensuing restart. Following the second caution of the day on lap 34, Blaney made his first trip to pit road for a four-tire stop and a round of adjustments. Blaney started from 16th on the ensuing restart with six laps left in Stage 1 and was scored 16th at the end of the first, 45-lap segment. After staying out during the stage break, Blaney lined up fifth to begin Stage 2 and reported a tight-handling condition during the opening run of the second stage. While running fifth, the No. 7 washed up the track and into the left side of Blaney in turn four, causing him to fall to 17th in the running order. Rain began to fall around the track moments later bringing out the red flag on lap 74 as the race was suspended until Monday afternoon. After several cars hit pit road prior to going back green on Monday, Blaney lined up 11th and initially struggled with the handling of his Ford Mustang prior to the caution coming out on lap 102. Blaney was serviced with four tires and adjustments to tighten him up under yellow with just under 20 laps left in the stage and raced his way to a 13th-place finish in Stage 2. The No. 12 team’s pit strategy allowed Blaney to stay on track during the stage break as the leaders hit pit road, lining him up to start third to begin the final stage. Blaney ran as high as second in the running order before green flag pit stops began to cycle and he took the lead on lap 160 before making the trip to pit road for four tires, fuel, and adjustments to get the balance settled in for the final run of the afternoon. He raced his way back into the top 10 with 20 laps remaining and secured a ninth-place finish as the race stayed green the rest of the way. The result marked Blaney’s 11th top-10 finish of the season and seventh in his last nine trips to Michigan.

BLANEY’S THOUGHTS: “Just kind of a decent, okay day. Just different pit strategies and stuff like that. I thought the call we made to come in before the second stage and put tires on with like 15 to go flipped the stage. It had us restart in the top five and got us our track position back that we lost earlier. We were able to kind of halfway hang on. I didn’t think my speed was great but just a hard-working day for sure. It is nice that a Ford won. That is nine in a row here for Ford which is great. I wish it was us but I am happy for the overall goal. We gotta keep going to work.”

JOEY LOGANO No. 22 SHELL-PENNZOIL FORD MUSTANG

START: 6TH STAGE ONE: 22ND STAGE TWO: 7TH FINISH: 14TH POINTS: 12TH

RACE RUNDOWN: Joey Logano started from the outside of row three Sunday afternoon at Michigan International Speedway and battled a tight-handling Ford Mustang on the initial run, positioning him ninth at the time of the first caution on lap 14. Logano and the No. 22 team altered their strategy from the leaders and opted to pit under yellow for four tires, fuel, and a round of adjustments to neutralize the balance as Logano took the ensuing green flag from 27th. Logano fought his way through traffic on the following run to come away with a 22nd-place finish in Stage 1. The No. 22 team’s strategy allowed Logano to stay on the race track during the stage break and restarted 12th for the second segment of the afternoon. Following an incident with the leaders on lap 64, Logano was brought to pit road for right-side tires and fuel before making an additional stop to top off on fuel before the race went back green. Shortly after the ensuing restart rain began to fall around the track to bring the race to a halt on lap 74, forcing a Monday afternoon resumption to finish the FireKeepers Casino 400. Once the red flag was lifted just before 1 p.m. ET Monday, several of the leaders opted to pit before going back green which allowed Logano to restart from 14th. The caution flag flew on lap 102 with the laps winding down in Stage 2 and Logano stayed out in search of stage points as he lined up sixth with 13 laps remaining in the stage. Logano battled with the leaders during the sprint to the green-and-white checkered flag to come away with a seventh-place result in Stage 2. Following a four-tire stop and a round of adjustments during the stage break, Logano restarted 19th and reported a vibration in the No. 22 Shell Pennzoil Ford Mustang in the opening laps of the run. As green flag pit stops began to cycle up front, Logano made his way into the top-10 on lap 158 and ran as high as sixth during the final stage. Logano made his final trip to pit road on lap 173 for a scheduled, green flag pit stop as the No. 22 team stretched the fuel window as far as they could. The race remained green the rest of the way while Logano worked his way back into the top-15 to come away with a 14th-place finish.

LOGANO’S THOUGHTS: “We had a decent day with our Shell-Pennzoil Ford Mustang. I feel like we were better today than Sunday, but obviously track position was key no matter what and I thought our strategy calls put us in a good position throughout the day. We worked hard on it the last few days and glad we were able to get a Ford in victory lane here. Wish it was us, obviously, but we’ll keep working on it as the regular season winds down.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The NASCAR Cup Series heads to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course on Sunday, August 13 for the Verizon 200. Coverage begins at 2:30 p.m. E.T. on NBC, IMS Radio Network and Sirius XM NASCAR Radio.

Leasing Vs Owning: The Race Car Edition

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SM
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Photo by Ian Chen on Unsplash

Deep within the vast automotive world, there’s an age-old debate you’ll encounter, one that has intrigued novices and experts alike for years on end – should you lease or outright own a race car? 

This isn’t a quick, cut-and-dry decision; it takes the careful exploration of multiple variables and factors to arrive at your personal optimal choice. Setting the scene straight, it’s time to put these two heavyweights in the ring and delve into the particulars.

The Basics of Leasing:

The first contestant stepping into this battleground is car leasing. In simplest terms, car leasing is an agreement between you and the leasing company. You pay monthly installments over a set period in exchange for using the vehicle. It’s akin to renting; you don’t own the race car but have the option to buy at the lease’s end.

Benefits of Leasing

When you lease, your pockets feel lighter up front as leases require lower down payments compared to purchasing outright. This means getting behind the wheel of your dream race car can become achievable sooner than later. Plus, car lease deals often come bundled with attractive warranty packages that cover most repair costs during your lease term.

Drawbacks of Leasing

Alas, leasing does present some potential pitfalls which may deter those looking at long-term benefits. For starters, you’re roped into a mileage limit which can be restrictive if frequent racing is on your agenda. Breaching this limit incurs hefty penalties. Moreover, if wear and tear exceed normal expectations as per your contract terms, brace yourself for extra charges.

The Fundamentals of Owning:

On the other side of this automotive coin lies car ownership. Here, after making either full payment upfront or settling all loan installments, you gain full possession of your race car. There are no restrictions or limitations – it’s your playground and rules.

Advantages of Owning

Owning can be extremely satisfying since every payment made brings you closer to complete ownership. There’s significant freedom too — no mileage limit constraints or penalties for excess wear and tear. You also have unlimited liberty to modify your vehicle or sell it as per market trends for an instant cash injection.

Disadvantages of Owning

Owning isn’t without its hurdles; substantial upfront costs can deter many enthusiasts from owning their dream race cars outrightly. Plus, bear in mind that with ownership comes responsibility; maintenance costs loom large and aren’t always predictable – breakdowns or extensive repairs can send financial plans tumbling down a rabbit hole.

Practical Considerations:

While determining whether to lease or own, you must dissect the monetary elements each path includes; understanding conceivable monthly payments for both options — including insurance and tax charges — is imperative toward making an informed decision.

Maintenance Obligations

With leasing contracts often offering comprehensive warranty coverage throughout your use period minimizing maintenance costs significantly but remember ownership implies taking comprehensive responsibility for servicing — from oil changes to tire replacements.

Liability Factors

Owning implies embracing all damages, however minor or major they may be whereas leasing entails having liability only up to a certain point — beyond which any damage might trigger bulky penalties.

Leasing Race Cars:

Racing leagues frequently offer tempting lease deals focused towards participants seeking high-performance vehicles without significant financial burden upfront ensuring competitive participation across adequately funded teams to private entrants searching for glory in an equitable arena.

Determining Contract Terms

Negotiating favorable contract terms is crucial while considering leasing – defining acceptable wear & tear parameters mileage caps excess charges could influence overall financial implications significantly, so equip yourself adequately before negotiation sessions.

Expense Calculations

Estimate expense calculations thoroughly considering additional costs involved – insurance registration fees and excess penalty clauses included in contract terms may push total investment beyond budgetary expectations until explicitly considered.

Owning Race Cars:

Calculate the overall cost of ownership, including unpredictable yet inevitable expenses of repairs, regular service checks replacement spares aligned in accordance with dynamic racing schedules and maintenance timelines.

Depreciation Considerations

Ownership spells dealing with fickle depreciation rates based on comprehensive performance parameters and individual race-winning records, making resale calculations challenging yet forming integral elements toward ultimate financial implications.

Modification Possibilities

An empowering advantage favoring ownership lies within modification liberties from cosmetic tweaks like color alterations, decals, and graphics wheel rims through functional revamps concerning engine tuning and aerodynamic improvements, enhancing overall performance aesthetics to satisfy personal whims fantasies.

Leasing vs Owning Race Cars

Keeping track of projected cost elements across both options will give clarity about expenditures versus savings – helping determine which path aligns more comfortably with budgetary boundaries without constraining secondary financial obligations unnecessarily.

Flexibility and Freedom: A Duel

Freedom derived from ownership does enlist certain obligations, whereas flexibility afforded by leasing terms negates further hassles attached, presenting give & take situations demanding careful scrutiny and understanding shifts between available choices, adjusting paths accordingly.

Longevity and Dependability Assessment

Diving deep into the history and past performances of specific model manufacturers concern aids longevity dependability judgment based upon recorded reliability data contributing significantly towards informed choice marking a clear distinction between mere hobby and professional aspirations within the racing world.

Conclusion: Concise Wrap-up

The leasing versus owning race cars debate reveals no universal solution. It’s about personalizing options to fit unique circumstances, needs, and wants. Guided by these insights and fluid perspectives, adaptability emerges as key. Acknowledge potential hurdles but embrace opportunities, and refashion your route to align with your envisioned goal seamlessly.

7 Reasons to Opt for a Used Car

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SM
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If you’re in the market for a new set of wheels, you might be wondering whether to buy a brand-new car or go for a used one. Some people think buying used means they’ll be calling a towing company every other week for their so-called new purchase. But the truth is, once you have the facts, it’s not an easy decision. Buying a used car can have some pretty sweet perks, especially when you do your homework to ensure you land a solid one. From cost savings to environmental impact, buying a used car can offer numerous advantages. So let’s see why picking a used car could be the best choice for your next ride..

Reason 1: Lower Purchase Price

One of the most compelling reasons to opt for a used car is the significantly lower purchase price than a brand-new vehicle. The average price difference between a new and used car sale in the USA is around $15,600. This affordability makes car ownership more accessible to a broader range of individuals, allowing you to enjoy the freedom and convenience of having your own set of wheels. You can find a wide selection of used cars for sale wirral and find an affordable option that fits within your budget.

Additionally, a lower purchase price might even enable you to consider higher-end brands that were previously out of reach. Plus, the savings from buying a used car can be allocated towards other necessary car-related expenses, such as tire care, ensuring your vehicle remains in top condition for years to come.

Reason 2: Lower Depreciation Rates

Depreciation is the decrease in a car’s value over time, and it significantly impacts the overall cost of owning a vehicle. New cars tend to depreciate much faster than used ones, with the steepest drop in value occurring within the first few years of a car’s life. You can see how quickly new cars depreciate by testing out a car depreciation calculator or searching for a specific make and model. By choosing to buy a used car, you can avoid this rapid depreciation, making your investment more worthwhile in the long run. This is one of the key reasons why buying used cars is a popular consideration for savvy for those looking to get the most value out of their purchase.

Reason 3: Cheaper Insurance Costs

The value of a car plays a significant role in determining the cost of car insurance, and since used cars are generally cheaper than new ones, they often come with lower insurance costs as well. For example, a used car that’s a few years old could save you hundreds of dollars per year on insurance premiums compared to a brand-new model. These potential savings are an important factor when weighing the pros and cons of buying a used car versus a new one. As part of the why buy a used car vs. new debate, it’s essential to consider not only the purchase price but also the ongoing expenses, such as insurance, to make the most informed decision possible.

Reason 4: Lower Registration Fees

Registration fees are often based on the car’s transaction price, meaning that used cars generally come with lower registration fees than their brand-new counterparts. This difference in cost can be quite significant depending on the state and the value of the vehicle. For example, a used car might have registration fees that are hundreds of dollars less than those for a new car. This lower expense is yet another reason why buying a used car can be a smart financial decision and adds to the list of answers for the question of why buy a used car?

Reason 5: Certified Pre-Owned Options

Certified pre-owned (CPO) cars are used vehicles that have passed a pre-sale inspection and any mechanical or cosmetic concerns have been addressed before it is resold. They’re a great way to avoid having to search for an auto repair near me. CPO cars usually come with a bundle of extras to give you peace of mind, such as an extended warranty, vehicle history report, and roadside assistance. The benefits of buying a CPO car include:

  • Extended Warranty: CPO programs from major automakers include a limited powertrain warranty, which covers important components such as the engine and transmission.
  • Free Scheduled Maintenance: Some automakers offer CPO buyers free scheduled maintenance for a certain period of time or mileage.
  • Roadside Assistance: Many CPO programs provide free 24-hour roadside assistance that lasts for the duration of the extended basic warranty coverage.
  • Near-Mint Condition: CPO cars are usually in near-mint condition, which means that they have been well-maintained and are less likely to have major issues.

However, it’s important to note that not all CPO programs are the same. It’s important to do your research and compare the benefits and warranties offered by different automakers before deciding.

Reason 6: Environmental Impact

Opting for a used car can also have significant environmental benefits, such as a reduced carbon footprint. The production of new cars contributes greatly to CO2 emissions, so by choosing a pre-owned vehicle, you’re minimizing your environmental impact. Moreover, with an increasing number of electric vehicles (EVs) entering the used car market at attractive prices due to their steep depreciation rates, going green has become even more accessible. This eco-friendly advantage is yet another factor to consider in the larger buying used vs. new debate — showing that buying used can be both financially and environmentally responsible.

Reason 7: Variety

Lastly, the used car market offers a vast variety of options for buyers, giving you the chance to explore and find models that may no longer be produced or are rare in the new car market. This diverse selection allows you to discover unique and interesting vehicles that suit your personal taste and preferences, which might not be available when shopping for a brand-new car. You may also find cars with after-market upgrades that appeal to you but you wouldn’t know how to approach on your own. Whether you’re looking for a classic model, a limited edition, or something out of the ordinary — the used car market provides endless opportunities to find the perfect vehicle that aligns with your individual style and needs.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for You

So, there you have it! Buying a used car comes with a whole bunch of benefits, like lower purchase prices, cheaper insurance, and even helping out the environment. Plus, you get to choose from a wide variety of cool and unique vehicles that you might not find in the new car market. At the end of the day, it’s all about what works best for you, your budget, and your lifestyle. Do your research, weigh the pros and cons, and think about what matters most to you. By taking your time and considering all the factors, you’ll be better equipped to make a choice that suits your needs and makes you happy. And remember, a used car can be just as reliable and enjoyable as a brand-new one. So, why not give it a shot? You might just find the perfect ride at an unbeatable price. Happy car hunting!

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