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Four Loko to sponsor Ryan Ellis at COTA

Ryan Ellis and Alpha Prime Racing are proud to announce that Four Loko is returning as a sponsor in 2023, sponsoring the No.43 Chevrolet Camaro at Circuit of the Americas on March 25th. The iconic brand first entered the sport last year sponsoring Ellis at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in his first race with Alpha Prime Racing, in an exciting event where the Four Loko Chevy avoided multiple crashes at the 1.5-mile oval, finishing 13th.

Four Loko, at its core, thrives on fueling epic stories that make life unforgettable. Four Loko salutes those who dare to live in the moment, who dare to be bold, and unexpected. Four Loko’s 2022 release of Four Loko USA and Loko USA car design embodies the lifestyle and energy of the American NASCAR fan.

“We’re very excited to partner with Ryan and the team for a second year. Ryan was a wonderful partner for us in 2022, his enthusiasm for the brand, openness for fun content & collaboration between teams made it a no brainer to run this back in 2023. We also can’t wait to get this car in front of his and our fans in Texas.,” said Sam Catalina, VP of Marketing for Phusion Projects.

“We’re going into our second year with Four Loko as a sponsor and it’s still crazy to me that I get to be part of such a fun and exciting partnership. This is a brand that I grew up around in college and I never thought I’d be driving a Four Loko sponsored race car in NASCAR,” said Ryan Ellis, driver of the No.43 Four Loko Chevy. “We got so much attention last year with the scheme – bald eagles shooting lasers, bears crushing Four Loko cans, it’s hard not to get attention with chaos like that on the car. But we also had a great run and got a lot of TV time for the brand and I know NASCAR fans loved seeing a new brand come into the sport and just own the spotlight like that. Having heard the ideas and seen some sample schemes for this year, I am so excited to reveal their ideas to fans and I hope we can build this partnership into more races in 2023 and beyond.”

“It’s so cool to be associated with a brand as fun and notable as Four Loko. We had a blast with the brand last year – not only at the racetrack, but with all the innovative content we created together, and throughout all of the time we were able to spend with their group. COTA will certainly be a different event than Las Vegas, but the environment and crowd will be a great fit. We’re really excited for them to experience their first road course with Ryan Ellis and we’re looking forward to an exciting partnership once again,” said Tommy Joe Martins, President of Alpha Prime Racing.

Tune In Info:
The NASCAR Xfinity Series 250 at Circuit of the Americas race will be broadcasted live on FS1 beginning at 4pm ET on March 25th.
Practice is scheduled for Friday, March 24th, from 6:30 PM- 7:00 PM ET. Qualifying, to set the lineup for Saturday’s race, follows shortly thereafter from 7:00 PM until 8:00 PM ET.

Radio coverage will be on MRN and SiriusXM – complete weekend tune-in information will be announced in the coming weeks.

About Four Loko / Phusion Projects
The Four Loko journey has been one of relentless creativity. Debuting in the United States market in 2005 by Phusion Projects, Four Loko has taken the lead on alcoholic malt beverages with their core and sour flavors and pregame. In 2022, they released the most patriotic flavor the world has ever seen, Four Loko USA. In 2023, Four Loko is headed to space with the launch of Sour Cosmic Punch, in partnership with Warheads candies. Four Loko can currently be found at leading retailers across the United States and in 35 countries. Follow @fourLoko or visit fourloko.com to learn more.

About Alpha Prime Racing
Alpha Prime Racing is a NASCAR Xfinity Series team co-owned by NASCAR driver Tommy Joe Martins and Alpha Prime Sports Founder and CEO Caesar Bacarella. The team was originally founded in 2009 under the name Martins Racing and has since grown into a three-car Chevrolet team, adding the No. 43 Chevrolet in 2023, primarily piloted by Ryan Ellis.

Operation Motorsport Kicks Off 2023 Season at the Rolex 24

· Three Operation Motorsport beneficiaries will participate during the race weekend.
· Greg Meismer will be with KohR Motorsport in the Michelin Pilot Challenge Series.
· Josh Snider will assist Gradient Racing in the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.
· Tyler Guillemette served as a crew member for MLT Motorsports during the Roar 24 weekend.

Daytona Beach, FL (January 26, 2023) – Operation Motorsport kicks off the 2023 race season at this weekend’s 61st Rolex 24 at Daytona with three beneficiaries in attendance. Representing the U.S. will be retired Army Sgt. Adam Poppenhouse as an Operation Motorsport event coordinator, while retired Marine Greg Meismer will assist KohR Motorsport in the Michelin Pilot Challenge Series. Canadian Forces Cpl. Josh Snider will be working alongside Gradient Racing in the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.

“We’ve worked hard to set our beneficiaries up for success,” says Tiffany Lodder, Executive Director and Co-founder of Operation Motorsport. “Their military training is invaluable for them as they look to transfer into civilian life. Their focus and willingness to learn a new skill is evident in their behavior with their teams, and I’m really happy to be back in the IMSA paddock.”

Poppenhouse is no stranger to the track. He’s a member of the Skip Barber Racing team competing in the TC America/SRO series as part of Operation Motorsports Immersion Program. He also participated in the 2022 Race of Remembrance as part of Operation Motorsport’s effort.

Like Poppenhouse, Snider also participated in the 2022 Race of Remembrance. Snider has taken his love for photography and applied it to his at-track duties as part of Operation Motorsport Immersion Program. He will assist Gradient Racing with social media and marketing throughout the Rolex 24.

Meismer grew up around racing jumping into a go-kart at age eight. He raced karts, cars, and quads as a child then stepped away before discovering SIM racing. Meismer first participated in the Operation e-Motorsport League even winning the season five championship. As a next step, Meismer will attend the Rolex 24 as part of Operation Motorsport’s Immersion Program.

During the Roar 24 weekend, the IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge debuted with two races. Navy veteran Tyler Guillemette represented Operation Motorsport in the paddock as a member of the MLT Motorsport team. The Roar 24 and Rolex 24 events mark the first time any of the Operation Motorsports beneficiaries have been to Daytona. It also marks the first time Meismer has been to a racetrack. A once in a lifetime experience that is life-changing for these medically retired service members.

Founded by Diezel and Tiffany Lodder, the mission of Operation Motorsport is to renew a sense of Team, Identity, and Purpose for medically retiring or retired Service Members affected by military service by supporting their recovery through motorsports – One At A Time. The organization has provided over 1,115 training days to more than 116 active beneficiaries during the last five years and is expanding the program for 2023.

Operation Motorsport uses various methods to recapture a sense of team, identity, and purpose for beneficiaries. At the track, beneficiaries attend IMSA, SRO, and other sports car events as part of Diversionary Therapy, Motorsport 101, and Driver Development. Online, the Operation e-Motorsport League provides a way for medically discharged veterans to compete on-track using iRacing from the comfort of their homes.

To help support their efforts, Operation Motorsport hosts Patriot Car Corrals at Fanatec GT World Challenge America events. The Patriot Car Corral offers an exclusive experience to join fellow car enthusiasts in an all-make environment with premium parking. During the weekend, attendees have the opportunity to participate in parade laps, paddock tours, and have access to the Operation Motorsport welcome tent. All proceeds benefit Operation Motorsport, so that more beneficiaries can participate in their programs.

Operation Motorsport is currently accepting beneficiary applications. Visit www.operationmotorsport.org to fill out the simple application and someone will respond to you. Volunteers are also needed throughout the 2023 race season. Visit the website to learn more about how you can volunteer or donate.

ABOUT OPERATION MOTORSPORT

Operation Motorsport is a Veteran Led and Operated 501(c)3 Not for Profit Foundation based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and Brighton, Ontario, serving American & Canadian Service Members and Veterans and is based on three core values: Team, Identity, and Purpose. Operation Motorsport supports the recovery of medically retiring or retired Service Members affected by military service through Motorsports opportunities. Our motto is One At A Time (#OneAtATime).

For more information and to donate, please visit www.operationmotorsport.org.

NBC Sports, INDYCAR Announce 2023 NTT INDYCAR SERIES Broadcast Start Times

INDIANAPOLIS (Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023) – NBC Sports and INDYCAR today announced the race broadcast start times for the 2023 NTT INDYCAR SERIES schedule, headlined by the 107th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on Sunday, May 28 at iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, with coverage beginning at 11 a.m. ET on NBC and Peacock.

The first seven races of the season will air on NBC and Peacock, including the season-opening Streets of Petersburg at noon ET Sunday, March 5 and concluding with the new Streets of Detroit circuit at 3 p.m. ET Sunday, June 4.

“Getting off to a strong start to the season is always important in pursuit of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship,” two-time and defending INDYCAR SERIES champion Will Power said. “From a broadcast perspective, our season will also get off on the right foot with seven consecutive races on NBC to start the 2023 season before another NBC run to the championship at Laguna Seca.

“Our race fans are the best in motorsports. This broadcast schedule will continue to make our series accessible and easy to find for them, while continuing to push the most competitive racing series in the world out to the lifeblood of our sport.”

Additional highlights of NBC Sports’ 2023 NTT INDYCAR SERIES coverage schedule include:

The first race of the doubleheader at Iowa Speedway at 3 p.m. ET Saturday, July 22 begins a stretch of six of the final seven races airing on NBC and Peacock to conclude the season
Indianapolis 500 qualifying coverage from IMS airing on NBC and Peacock at 3 p.m. ET Saturday, May 20 and 2 p.m. ET Sunday, May 21 to determine the starting grid for “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing”
USA Network presenting three races: Road America (1 p.m. ET Sunday, June 18); Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course (1:30 p.m. ET Sunday, July 2); and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course as part of the fourth edition of the INDYCAR-NASCAR Brickyard Weekend (2 p.m. ET Saturday, Aug. 12)
Season finale at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca to determine the 2023 series champion at 2:30 p.m. ET Sunday, Sept. 10 on NBC and Peacock
Peacock will once again provide comprehensive streaming coverage of the 2023 season, including the exclusive presentation of the Streets of Toronto for the second straight year on Sunday, July 16, at 1:30 p.m. ET.

The remaining 16 races will simulstream on Peacock, which will also present nearly exclusive coverage of every qualifying and practice session in 2023. Additionally, coverage surrounding the Indianapolis 500, INDY NXT by Firestone races, race day warmups and full-event race replays will be available on the platform. Click here for more details.

NBC Sports’ 2023 NTT INDYCAR SERIES coverage schedule:

DateRace/TrackNetwork/PlatformTime (ET)
Sun., March 5Streets of St. PetersburgNBC, PeacockNoon
Sun., April 2Texas Motor SpeedwayNBC, PeacockNoon
Sun., April 16Streets of Long BeachNBC, Peacock3 p.m.
Sun., April 30Barber Motorsports ParkNBC, Peacock3 p.m.
Sat., May 13Indianapolis Motor Speedway (Road Course)NBC, Peacock3:30 p.m.
Sat., May 20Indianapolis 500 QualifyingNBC, Peacock3 p.m.
Sun., May 21Indianapolis 500 QualifyingNBC, Peacock2 p.m.
Sun., May 28The 107th Indianapolis 500NBC, Peacock11 a.m.
Sun., June 4Streets of DetroitNBC, Peacock3 p.m.
Sun., June 18Road AmericaUSA Network, Peacock1 p.m.
Sun., July 2Mid-Ohio Sports Car CourseUSA Network, Peacock1:30 p.m.
Sun., July 16Streets of TorontoPeacock1:30 p.m.
Sat., July 22Iowa Speedway – Race 1NBC, Peacock3 p.m.
Sun., July 23Iowa Speedway – Race 2NBC, Peacock2 p.m.
Sun., Aug. 6Streets of NashvilleNBC, PeacockNoon
Sat., Aug. 12Indianapolis Motor Speedway (Road Course)USA Network, Peacock2 p.m.
Sun., Aug. 27World Wide Technology RacewayNBC, Peacock3:30 p.m.
Sun., Sept. 3Portland International RacewayNBC, Peacock3 p.m.
Sun., Sept. 10WeatherTech Raceway Laguna SecaNBC, Peacock2:30 p.m.

Note: Dates, times and networks/platforms are subject to change

Stewart-Haas Racing Signs Driver Chase Briscoe to Multiyear Contract Extension

March 13 , 2022: at the Phoenix Raceway in Phoenix , AZ. , . . . (HHP/Andrew Coppley)

KANNAPOLIS, N.C. (Jan. 26, 2023) – Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) has signed driver Chase Briscoe to a multiyear contract extension, keeping the 28-year-old racer in its No. 14 Ford Mustang for many more seasons in the NASCAR Cup Series.

SHR promoted Briscoe to the Cup Series in 2021 after he won a season-best nine races during his 2020 NASCAR Xfinity Series campaign. Briscoe continued to perform in Cup, handily winning the rookie-of-the-year title. The Mitchell, Indiana-native then enjoyed a breakout sophomore season, winning his first Cup Series race on March 13, 2022 at Phoenix Raceway in just his 40th career start. The victory secured Briscoe’s place in the NASCAR Playoffs and earned him the honor of being the 200th Cup Series winner in NASCAR history.

“Chase has made the most of every opportunity and the proof is in the results. Keeping him at SHR was a priority and we’re proud to have him in our racecars for many more years to come,” said Tony Stewart, the NASCAR Hall of Famer who co-owns SHR with Haas Automation founder Gene Haas.

Briscoe enters 2023 representing primary partners Mahindra Ag North America, HighPoint.com, Rush Truck Centers, Magical Vacation Planner, Ford Performance Racing School, Code 3 Associates, Cummins and Mobil Delvac 1.

“It’s huge to have stability, with my team and my partners. It just gives you more confidence. Stewart-Haas Racing is where I want to be for a long time. It’s the place I’ve known longer than anywhere else in my NASCAR career,” said Briscoe.

“I remember getting signed by Ford in 2017 and I told people, ‘You know, if I could pick one place to be, it would be Stewart-Haas Racing. And if I could drive one car, it would be the 14 car. That would be the ultimate dream.’ And now, here I am.

“SHR has such a great group of people, from the Xfinity Series to the Cup Series, and they’ve all just guided me in the right direction. From drivers to crew chiefs to crew members, they’ve always had my back, and that’s been a huge help – just having people believe in you.”

Briscoe is a third-generation racer whose career began on dirt tracks in and around his home state of Indiana. Since he was 13, Briscoe has followed in his grandfather’s and father’s footsteps, racing sprint cars on the rough-and-tumble bullrings of the Midwest. In 2014, Briscoe moved to North Carolina to pursue a career in stock car racing. He volunteered in race shops before landing the chance to pilot an ARCA Racing Series entry for Briggs Cunningham III for two races in 2015. Briscoe parlayed that opportunity into a full-time ride for 2016, winning six races and the championship before advancing to the NASCAR Truck Series in 2017 with Brad Keselowski Racing. After winning the Truck Series’ rookie-of-the-year award, a limited Xfinity Series schedule followed in 2018 with SHR and Roush-Fenway Racing. Briscoe earned his first career Xfinity Series win with SHR on Sept. 29, 2018 at the Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway Roval. He then competed full time in the Xfinity Series with SHR in 2019 and 2020, qualifying for the NASCAR Playoffs both seasons.

“Growing up in Indiana and racing sprint cars, the guy I always looked up to was Tony Stewart. To be able to drive for him is a dream come true. To know I’ll have my name above the door of that No. 14 Ford Mustang for a really long time means a lot, and I’m ready to write my own history in it,” Briscoe said.

“Tony and Gene have built something really special in Stewart-Haas Racing and I’m incredibly proud to be a part of this organization.”

About Stewart-Haas Racing:

Stewart-Haas Racing is the title-winning NASCAR team co-owned by three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Tony Stewart and Gene Haas, founder of Haas Automation – the largest CNC machine tool builder in North America. The Kannapolis, North Carolina-based organization has won two NASCAR Cup Series titles, one NASCAR Xfinity Series championship and more than 90 NASCAR races, including such crown-jewel events as the Daytona 500, Brickyard 400 and Southern 500. For more information, please visit us online at StewartHaasRacing.com and on social at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Front Row Motorsports Welcomes Quincy Compressor to NASCAR Cup Series

Compressor Manufacturer to Partner with Gilliland and McDowell

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (January 26, 2023) – Quincy Compressor, a Bay Minette, Alabama-based compressor manufacturer, will make their NASCAR Cup Series debut in 2023 in a partnership with Front Row Motorsports (FRM). The program is highlighted by a three-race primary race schedule with Todd Gilliland and the No. 38 Ford Mustang team. In addition, Quincy Compressor will partner with Michael McDowell and the No. 34 Ford Mustang team in one event.

Founded in 1920, Quincy Compressor is a leading designer and manufacturer of reciprocating and rotary screw air compressors, vacuum pumps and a full line of air treatment components. Headquartered in Bay Minette, Alabama, Quincy has built its reputation on quality and rugged reliability, building tough air compressors for the most demanding applications.. With a legacy spanning over one hundred years, they are excited to bring their “True Blue” brand to NASCAR’s premiere series and to its millions of passionate fans.

“Our relationship with Front Row Motorsports will allow us to continue to grow the Quincy brand and showcase our products and capabilities,” said Ashley Gates, Marketing and Communications Manager, Quincy Compressor. “The team at Front Row Motorsports and its drivers Todd Gilliland and Michael McDowell will be great ambassadors for our company and we want to be a part of the continued success of the team. We are looking forward to the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series season and this new partnership.”

Gilliland will carry the Quincy Compressor colors three times throughout the year beginning at the Richmond (Va.) Raceway in April, the Darlington (S.C.) Raceway in September, and finishing at the Martinsville (Va.) Speedway in October.

“It is really cool to have a multiple-race partnership with a new partner such as Quincy Compressor,” said Gilliland. “We’re growing in my second season with FRM, evident by our partnership announcements, and it’s just going to make our whole program better. I’m ready to start this season.”

For McDowell, Quincy will be the primary partner at the Las Vegas (Nev.) Motor Speedway in March.

“It is always great to welcome new partners to FRM,” said McDowell. “I echo what Todd says about all these partnership announcements and having a new company like Quincy Compressor join the team, it just proves that we’re growing and getting better. Now, we want to get the fans excited about Quincy Compressor and see everything they have to offer.”

To learn more about Quincy Compressor, fans are encouraged to visit their website at www.quincycompressor.com

About Front Row Motorsports

Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization in the NASCAR Cup and Craftsman Truck Series. The team is the 2021 Daytona 500 and 2022 Craftsman Truck Series champions. The team was founded in 2004 and is owned by successful entrepreneur, Bob Jenkins. FRM fields the No. 34 and the No. 38 NASCAR Cup Series teams along with the No. 38 Craftsman Truck Series team from its Mooresville, N.C. headquarters. Visit teamfrm.com and follow FRM on social media: Twitter at @Team_FRM, Instagram at @team_frm and Facebook at facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

RFK Racing, Solomon Plumbing Announce Partnership Renewal

Michigan-Based Plumbing Company to Serve as Primary for Four Races on No. 6 in 2023

CONCORD, N.C. (Jan. 26, 2023) – RFK Racing has announced that Solomon Plumbing, who joined the team in 2022, has expanded its partnership in 2023 and beyond. The Michigan-based company will serve as the primary for multiple races on NASCAR Champion Brad Keselowski’s No. 6 Ford this season, kicking off at Richmond Raceway in April.

“We’re thrilled to have our friends at Solomon Plumbing back with us for more races and action in 2023,” said Steve Newmark, President of RFK Racing. “Any time we retain partners in this sport, it is a positive for our team as it proves that our marketing activations and platforms are successful off the track. Danny (Solomon Plumbing CEO) and his team have been amazing to work with thus far, and we look forward to more great adventures this season.”

Solomon specializes in plumbing and fire services for new development, construction and complete remodeling. With roots in New Hudson, Michigan, as well as a North Carolina office, Solomon is the developer’s choice to provide turn-key plumbing and fire solutions from start to finish for multi-unit housing, high rise buildings and complete residential developments.

Solomon originally joined the team as a one-race partner for Keselowski at the Bristol Dirt Race last season. They went on to serve as the primary for the summer Atlanta and fall Kansas races as well. This season, Solomon will be the primary for the No. 6 team at multiple races including Richmond (April 2), Nashville (June 25), Darlington (Sept. 3) and Talladega (Oct. 1).

Keselowski is a two-time winner at Richmond, most recently visiting victory lane three years ago, with 12 top-10s in 26 starts. He has just two starts at Nashville in the Cup Series, and has one win at Darlington along with nine top-10s. At Talladega he has the most wins of any active driver with six.

Keselowski enters his second season at RFK and 14th full season in the NCS. With 35 Cup wins to his credit, he is set to make his 500th Cup start in 2023.

About Solomon Plumbing
We specialize in plumbing and fire services for new development, construction and complete remodeling. We are the developer’s choice to provide turn-key plumbing and fire solutions from start to finish. This includes multi-unit housing, high rise buildings and complete residential developments. We are committed to fulfilling your plumbing and fire needs with honesty and integrity, exceeding your expectations for service, quality, and value.

Solomon Plumbing has been developing long term business relationships across the United States with a strong reputation for high quality craftsmanship and service commitment. Contact us today to discuss your next project.

About Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing
RFK Racing, in its 36th season in 2023, features an ownership lineup pairing one of the sport’s most iconic names, Jack Roush, along with NASCAR Champion, Brad Keselowski, and Fenway Sports Group owner John Henry. Roush initially founded the team in 1988 and it has since become one of the most successful racing operations in the world, propelling him to be the first NASCAR owner to amass three hundred wins and capturing eight championships, including back-to-back NASCAR Cup titles in 2003 and 2004. Keselowski, a former owner in the NASCAR Truck Series, brings to the team a championship mindset himself having won the 2012 NASCAR Cup Series Championship. In 2007, Roush partnered with Henry, who also owns Major League Baseball’s Boston Red Sox, English Premier League’s Liverpool F.C., and the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins, to form Roush Fenway Racing. Off the track, RFK is a leader and proven winner in NASCAR marketing solutions, having produced multiple award-winning social media, digital content and experiential marketing campaigns. Visit rfkracing.com, and follow the team on all social platforms @rfkracing.

Lawless Alan Returns to Niece Motorsports in 2023

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Jan. 26, 2023) – Lawless Alan (www.lawlessalanracing.com) will return to Niece Motorsports in 2023 for his sophomore season in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.

Alan will again pilot the No. 45 Chevrolet Silverado for Niece Motorsports as he looks to build upon last season’s rookie campaign.

“I am very excited to be returning to Niece Motorsports in 2023 with AUTOParkit,” said Alan. “I am looking forward to using everything I learned throughout last year and applying it to this year. I’m no longer coming to these tracks for the first time, so I have very high expectations for what I can achieve with Niece Motorsports and AUTOParkit.”

Alan joined Niece Motorsports in 2022, competing in the full NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series schedule. The young driver earned his best finish of 11th at the first road course on the schedule, Circuit of the Americas. Alan closed out his rookie year with eight top-20 finishes.

The California native made nine NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series starts in 2021, with his best finish of 18th coming at Bristol Motor Speedway in the fall.

“We are excited to have Lawless return to Niece Motorsports this season,” said Niece Motorsports General Manager Cody Efaw. “Lawless gained a lot of experience and got a lot of seat time last season that we really think is going to pay off this year. We are excited to see his growth this season. He’s a hard worker and is always asking questions and learning from the people around him. He definitely has the right attitude to be successful in this sport.”

Alan enjoys sponsorship from AUTOParkit, AUTOChargit™, and Siemens with secondary sponsorship from GarageFloor 24™. Since 2017, Alan has been the official spokesperson for AUTOParkit and its sister companies: GarageFloor 24, AUTOChargit™, PARKSentry™, AUTOStorit™ and AUTODockit™.

“The 2023 NASCAR Racing Season is nearly upon us,” said AUTOParkit Vice President of Sales Shawn Adams. “Similar to Lawless expanding his skill set as a professional NASCAR Driver and continuing to compete at the highest level, we too have extended our product line to include AUTODockit for boat storage, AUTOStorit for mixed-use personal storage, and AUTOChargit for automated EV Charging solutions to grow our brand. Our sponsorship relationship with Lawless Alan continues to be strengthened with each opportunity to compete. As we are often reminded at each race that steel sharpens steel.”

Alan won the 2018 Track Championship at Irwindale Speedway in the NASCAR WHELEN Late Model Series. In 2019 Lawless won Rookie of the Year honors in Trans Am’s TA2 Series and most recently won the 2020 Silver State Road Course Winter Series at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Alan has also won the Late Model Winter Showdown at Kern County Raceway, where he qualified on the pole and set a new track record in the process.

The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season will kick off at Daytona International Speedway, with the NextEra Energy 250 on Friday, February 17 at 7:30 p.m. ET. The race will air live on FS1, MRN, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

About Niece Motorsports:
Niece Motorsports is owned by United States Marine Corps Veteran Al Niece. In 2023, Niece Motorsports enters its eighth season in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Niece also owns Niece Equipment, which has for over 40 years provided clients with reliable products at competitive prices. Niece Equipment’s reputation is built on service, integrity and dependability. The company provides water and fuel/lube trucks that are engineered with quality and durability in mind for the construction and mining industry. Follow the team on Facebook and Instagram @NieceMotorsports as well as Twitter @NieceMotorsport.

About AUTOParkit:
-AUTOParkit™ designs, manufactures, and constructs fully automated parking systems for new and existing buildings. AUTOParkit system structural steel and modular design can provide double the capacity of a traditional parking garage, providing up to 17 LEED points and drastically reducing construction time.

-AUTOParkit automated systems are 40 percent less expensive to operate, safer for the user and reduces carbon emissions associated with parking by more than 80 percent. AUTOParkit’s charging pallets provided by AUTOChargit, are a fast and convenient way of charging EVs and Hybrids. AUTOChargit’s patented technology allows for shuffling charged vehicles cutting infrastructure costs by up to 80 percent.

For more information on AUTOParkit, visit www.autoparkit.com.

About AUTOChargit:
AUTOChargit designs, manufactures and installs EV charging systems for automated and conventional parking applications. AUTOChargit can decrease capital expenditures by up to 75 percent by providing automated coupling and decoupling of EV charging stalls from the power source. For conventional parking applications, a single 40-AMP circuit coupled with a single AUTOChargit System can be multiplexed to four, eight, or 12 stalls. Each charging stall is individually metered for the exact tracking of electricity usage. The AUTOParkit Mobile APP provides a touchless experience for the user.

For more information on AUTOChargit, visit www.autochargit.com

Follow Lawless Alan on Instagram and on the web: @lawless_alan / www.lawlessalanracing.com

All-New eK X EV Earns Top Rating in Vehicle Safety Performance 2022 Car Assessment by JNCAP

TOKYO, Jan 26, 2023 – (JCN Newswire) – Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (hereafter, Mitsubishi Motors) announced that the all-new eK X EV (pronounced “eK ‘cross’ EV”), an all-electric kei-car(1),(2), has earned the Five Star Award, the highest rating, in the Vehicle Safety Performance 2022 car assessment by Japan New Car Assessment Program (JNCAP)(3).

Mitsubishi Motors remains committed to its safety-oriented philosophy of achieving a mobility society with zero traffic accidents through continued efforts to develop and spread safety technology, and to spread knowledge about traffic safety.

In order to make it easier for buyers to choose cars with better safety while also promoting the development of safe vehicles by automakers, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) and the National Agency for Automotive Safety & Victims’ Aid (NASVA) perform various assessment tests each year for car safety performance mainly on high sales volume cars and publish the results. Only the cars that earn the highest evaluation (A rank) in both collision safety performance and preventive safety performance, and are equipped with an automatic accident emergency call system subsequently receive the Five Star Award, representing the highest assessment.

Website of the NASVA
www.nasva.go.jp/mamoru/en/
www.nasva.go.jp/mamoru/en/assessment_car/detail/249

Collision safety performance
The eK X EV comes standard equipped with driver and passenger SRS airbags, front seat-mounted side SRS airbags, and side curtain SRS airbags, as well as driver SRS knee airbag that cushion the driver’s lower body to mitigate leg injuries while improving protective efficiency by holding the body in position. The seven airbags enhances collision safety performance.

Preventive safety performance
Active safety technologies are standard equipped on all vehicles, combining nine advanced driver assist features including the Forward Collision Mitigation system (FCM) that alerts the driver and applies the brakes to assist in avoiding collisions or mitigating collision damage whenever it detects vehicles, pedestrians and bicyclists ahead and determines a risk of collision, as well as Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) that alert the driver if the vehicle is about to drift from its lane and support in returning the vehicle by applying the brakes in a short period of time, and Emergency Assist for Pedal Misapplication (EAPM) that alerts the driver and applies the brakes to assist in avoiding collisions or mitigating collision damage whenever it detects obstacles ahead such as vehicles, pedestrians and walls, and the driver applies the wrong pedal.

Automatic accident emergency call system
The eK X EV is equipped with emergency call system (with automatic emergency notification feature when airbags deploy)(4) to connect with HELPNET operation center at the press of a button during a medical emergency or when seemingly in danger. Additionally, if an accident does occur, it automatically connects to a call center in conjunction with the deployment of the airbags and is also compatible with the D-Call Net system that makes early-stage decisions on mobilizing rescue services such as Doctor Helicopters, or air ambulance.

Special website for eK X EV (in Japanese only):
https://www.mitsubishi-motors.co.jp/lineup/ek_x_ev/special/
Product website for eK X EV (in Japanese only):
https://www.mitsubishi-motors.co.jp/lineup/ek_x_ev/index.html

The eK X EV is a new EV model in the eK X series(5), Mitsubishi Motors’ kei-car series with an SUV flavor and a driving range of 180 kilometers (km, in WLTC mode)(6),(7) on a single charge that is sufficient for everyday use. It also combines spacious and pleasant cabin space and user-friendliness with the smooth, powerful driving experience of EVs, a quiet and comfortable ride, as well as advanced driver assistance systems and connectivity.

(1) Kei-car is a vehicle category in Japan for microcars.
(2) The eK X EV is a model designed under planning and development management by NMKV Co., Ltd., a joint venture of Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors. The results of the Nissan Sakura were used in this evaluation, while some of the evaluations were conducted using the eK X EV. The Nissan Sakura also received the Five Star Award.
(3) JNCAP is a joint project by the MLIT and NASVA.
(4) Installation of the smartphone application My MITSUBISHI CONNECT and user registration are required to use the service. Emergency call system is an emergency calling service (HELPNET) provided by Japan Mayday Service Co., Ltd. D-Call Net is a registered trademark of Emergency Medical Network of Helicopter and Hospital (HEM-Net), a certified non-profit organization. Doctor Helicopters might not be able to mobilize depending on circumstances such as location, time of day, or weather.
(5) Lineup includes eK X, a height-wagon kei-car, and eK X space, a super height-wagon kei-car.
(6) In Japan, approximately 80 percent of users of kei-cars and compact cars drive 50 km or less per day (Mitsubishi Motors’ survey). Accordingly, it is estimated that most users can drive for two days without recharging.
(7) WLTC, or Worldwide harmonized Light duty Test Cycle, is an internationally recognized test cycle that is composed of urban, suburban, and highway driving modes with average usage ratios.

About Mitsubishi Motors

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (TSE:7211), a member of the Alliance with Renault and Nissan, is a global automobile company based in Tokyo, Japan, which has about 30,000 employees and a global footprint with production facilities in Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, mainland China, the Philippines, Viet Nam and Russia. Mitsubishi Motors has a competitive edge in SUVs, pickup trucks and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and appeals to ambitious drivers willing to challenge convention and embrace innovation. Since the production of our first vehicle more than a century ago, Mitsubishi Motors has been a leader in electrification — launched the i-MiEV – the world’s first mass-produced electric vehicle in 2009, followed by the Outlander PHEV – the world’s first plug-in hybrid electric SUV in 2013. The company announced a three-year business plan in July 2020 to introduce more competitive and cutting-edge models, including the Eclipse Cross (PHEV model), the all-new Outlander and the all-new Triton/L200.

For more information on Mitsubishi Motors, please visit the company’s website at www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/

Shipping Success: A Guide to Finding the Top Trucking Companies in the United States

Photo by Josiah Farrow on Unsplash

America runs on trucks. When it comes to shipping goods, choosing the right trucking firm is vital to the success of your business. With so many options available, it can be challenging to decide which one to go with. However, by conducting research and reading customer feedback, you can identify some of the top trucking companies in the industry. In this article, we’ll be highlighting a few top-performing firms based on customer reviews and ratings.

It’s important to note that the best trucking firm for your business may vary based on your specific needs and requirements. Therefore, it’s recommended to conduct your own research and read customer feedback to find the right firm for you. A great resource for this is ratetrucker.com, a platform that allows users to rate and review trucking companies, making it easy for you to compare and find the best trucking companies in the US.

One of the most highly-regarded trucking companies in the United States is J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. This publicly-traded firm offers transportation and logistics services across North America, including intermodal, dedicated, and final mile delivery. J.B. Hunt is renowned for their punctual delivery and exceptional customer service.

Another reputable trucking firm in the United States is Schneider National, Inc. This privately-held company provides transportation and logistics services throughout North America, including truckload, intermodal, and logistics. Schneider is recognized for their safety record and their focus on sustainability.

Swift Transportation Co is another firm that excels in the industry. This publicly-traded company offers transportation and logistics services across North America, including truckload, intermodal, and logistics. Swift is known for their commitment to safety and their dedication to their drivers.

YRC Worldwide Inc and XPO Logistics, Inc are also among the top trucking firms in the United States. Both are publicly-traded companies that provide a wide range of transportation and logistics services throughout North America. YRC is known for their on-time delivery and their focus on sustainability, while XPO is recognized for their commitment to safety and their dedication to their employees.

Another top trucking company in the United States is Werner Enterprises, Inc. Werner is a publicly traded company that provides transportation and logistics services throughout North America. They offer a wide range of services, including truckload, LTL, and logistics. Werner is known for their commitment to safety and their dedication to their drivers. They also have a strong focus on technology and innovation, constantly updating their fleet and implementing new technologies to improve the shipping process for their customers.

Another reputable trucking company is Con-way Inc. Con-way is a publicly traded company that provides transportation and logistics services throughout North America. They offer a wide range of services, including truckload, LTL, and logistics. Con-way is known for their strong commitment to sustainability and their efforts to reduce their environmental impact. They have implemented various initiatives to reduce emissions and fuel consumption in their fleet, making them a great choice for those who prioritize environmental concerns.

A seventh top trucking company in the United States is Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. Old Dominion is a publicly traded company that provides transportation and logistics services throughout North America. They offer a wide range of services, including truckload, LTL, and logistics. Old Dominion is known for their on-time delivery and their commitment to customer service. They have a strong focus on providing personalized service and working closely with their customers to understand their specific needs and requirements.

In addition to the trucking companies listed above, there are many other reputable firms in the industry. When selecting a trucking company, it’s important to consider not only the services they offer, but also their reputation, safety record, commitment to sustainability, and overall customer service. Additionally, it’s important to compare pricing and shipping options to find the best fit for your business.

When researching trucking companies, it’s also important to consider their equipment and fleet. Look for companies that have well-maintained equipment, as this can have a major impact on the safety and efficiency of the shipping process. Additionally, consider the size and type of their fleet, as this will determine their ability to handle different types of cargo and shipping needs.

Another important factor to consider is the company’s driver retention rate. A company with high driver retention rates is an indication that they treat their drivers well, and that they are committed to providing a positive work environment. This can also have a direct impact on the safety and efficiency of the shipping process.

In conclusion, choosing the right trucking company is vital to the success of your business. By conducting research, reading customer feedback, and considering the factors mentioned above, you’ll be able to identify and select the best trucking company for your needs. Remember to check out ratetrucker.com to easily compare and find the best trucking companies.

McAnally-Hilgemann Racing adds Chase Elliott for Daytona Truck Series race, finalizes driver-crew chief pairing

Photo by Kirk Schroll for SpeedwayMedia.com.

McAnally-Hilgemann Racing solidified its driver-crew chief lineup for the 2023 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season while also unveiling a special name that will be joining the organization to commence a new season of competition.

For the Truck Series’ season-opener at Daytona International Speedway that is scheduled to occur on February 17, Chase Elliott will be piloting the No. 35 McAnally-Hilgemann Racing Chevrolet Silverado RST sponsored by Gates Hydraulics and NAPA Auto Care. The 2020 NASCAR Cup Series champion will be driving the entry in place of Jake Garcia, who will not be competing in the event due to age restrictions. Garcia, who was announced as the driver of the No. 35 Chevrolet for this upcoming Truck season on December 6, will make his first start of the season at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on March 3, which marks his 18th birthday.

The 2023 Truck opener will mark Elliott’s first series start at Daytona and 18th overall, with his latest occurring at the Bristol Motor Speedway Dirt Course last April, where he finished seventh while driving for Spire Motorsports. Making his Truck debut at Martinsville Speedway in April 2013, Elliott has achieved three career victories in the Truck circuit. His first occurred at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park in September 2013 while driving for Hendrick Motorsports and following a last-lap run-in with Ty Dillon. He went on to win at Martinsville Speedway in April 2017 and at Charlotte Motor Speedway in May 2020, both while driving for GMS Racing.

“This will be the first time I’ve driven a truck at Daytona, let alone a superspeedway,” Elliott, who finished fourth in the 2022 Cup Series final standings, said. “There’s no better team owner than Bill McAnally to do it with, as he’s been involved in racing and been associated with NAPA for a long time.”

Following the season opener at Daytona, Garcia, who made his first five career starts in the Truck circuit with McAnally-Hilgemann Racing this past season and notched a career-best 16th place at Phoenix Raceway in November, will take over the No. 35 entry and compete for the rookie title. Mark Hillman, who spent the previous season at McAnally-Hilgemann Racing as a crew chief for Colby Howard and the No. 91 entry, will remain with the organization to navigate both Elliott and Garcia throughout the season.

“I think there’s an incredible amount of potential for our team to make a lot of noise this year, and we have the people to make it happen,” Bill McAnally, owner of McAnally-Hilgemann Racing, said. “We’re thrilled to have Chase step in and drive our No. 35 Gates Hydraulics Chevrolet at Daytona and everyone involved in our program is excited and glad that he’s able to do so. I think his presence at Daytona will benefit Jake (Garcia) and our entire group.”

Meanwhile, Charles Denike, who joined McAnally-Hilgemann Racing midway into the 2022 Truck season and served as a crew chief for the team’s No. 19 entry piloted by Derek Kraus, will be remaining with the organization to lead the No. 19 Chevrolet Silverado RST team for a full season. On this occasion, the No. 19 entry will be piloted by Christian Eckes, who joined the organization on December 6. The 22-year-old Eckes from Middletown, New York, spent the previous Truck season competing for ThorSport Racing, where he notched eight top-five results, 15 top-10 results and qualified for the 2022 Truck Playoffs before finishing eighth in the final standings. He also notched his first career victory at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in September 2021.

Photo by Chad Wells for SpeedwayMedia.com.

On the competition side, veteran Chad Norris will be serving as the team’s general manager and will oversee the truck operation at the team’s base in Statesville, North Carolina. Norris, who spent the previous season as Garcia’s crew chief in the Truck competition, joins McAnally Hilgemann Racing with an extensive racing resume that includes four victories in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and one in the Truck circuit, which occurred at Kansas Speedway in October 2020 with Brett Moffitt. Norris also previously served as a competition director for GMS Racing before filling in as a Cup Series crew chief for Petty GMS Motorsports and driver Ty Dillon midway through this past season.

“Mark [Hillman] and Charles [Denike] had good seasons last year and are motivated to elevate the performance of both teams,” McAnally added. “Having Chad [Norris] come on board is a good boost for us also. He’s been around the Chevrolet team, has crew chief experience, and worked with Jake last season. I feel like we have a lot of talented people in our team, and we’re looking forward to putting it all together in our 33rd season with NAPA and NAPA Auto Care.”

With their full roster set, McAnally-Hilgemann Racing’s 2023 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season is scheduled to commence at Daytona International Speedway on February 17 at 7:30 p.m. ET on FS1.