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Jared Fryar wins Solid Rock Carriers Race of Champions at Carteret County Speedway

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Jared Fryar in victory lane following his victory in the Solid Rock Carriers Race of Champions Saturday at Carteret County Speedway. (Tony White Photo)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – SWANSBORO, N.C. (Dec. 11, 2022) – Jared Fryar won the war on Saturday night at Carteret County Speedway during the Solid Rock Carriers Race of Champions.

Fryar started on the pole and dominated most of the 150-lap late model stock car event, turning back multiple challenges throughout the race and leading 148 laps.

Things took a drastic turn during the final two laps when Doug Barnes Jr. used the bumper on his No. 88 to move Fryar’s No. 14 out of the way to seemingly capture the $10,000 victory at the four-tenths-mile oval.

“That was a heartbreaking way to lose a race,” said Fryar. “We had dominated up to that point and to have someone move us out of the way for the win is just devastating after a run like that.”

However, event officials later disqualified Barnes after reviewing video footage and determining that the No. 88 team had completed an illegal tire change during the race.

That handed the victory and the $10,000 prize to Fryar. It was his second triumph in his last three races following a victory in the CARS Late Model Stock Tour finale in November at Caraway Speedway and a runner-up finish in the Thanksgiving Classic at Southern National Motorsports Park.

“Obviously we don’t want to win races like that, but it is gratifying to know that we followed the rules and it paid off for us in a big way,” Fryar said. “It’s great to end the 2022 season with a victory and hopefully we can carry this momentum with us into the 2023 season and win a few more races.”

Jared Fryar would like to thank his parents, his wife Katy, Candice, Chris, Everett, Derick Jennings, Nick Baity, Daryl Smithback, Zach Darden and spotter Tony White, along with JM Racing, Brandon Gray, R&S Race Cars, Magic Maid, Hempstar Farms & Farmacy, Sterling Building Group, Solid Rock Carriers, John West Race Engines, Eatmon Mobile Home Movers, Bill’s Golf Carts, Racing Electronics, Swift Springs and MPM Marketing.

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About McCallister Precision Marketing

McCallister Precision Marketing (MPM) focuses on assisting up-and-coming race car drivers with career advancement and promotion. McCallister Precision Marketing helps drivers build confidence in front of and behind the camera, giving them the tools they need to advance to the next level. The company also provides companies with a strategic plan for their sales, marketing and promotional needs. We believe in building positive relationships with our clients so that we may provide them with the most professional, yet personal guidance they need, in order to achieve their racing goals. Our clients include race car drivers, race team owners, companies and racing series’. We also work closely with charities and charity events. For more information on McCallister Precision Marketing, visit www.MarketWithMPM.com, email TonyaMac44@MarketWithMPM.com or call 803-361-6199.

ARCA Menards Series Extends Broadcast Rights Agreement With FOX Sports Through 2024; Announces 2023 Broadcast Schedule

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2023 Coverage includes all 20 races live on FS1 and FS2 with select simulcasts on FloRacing

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Dec. 9, 2021) – ARCA and FOX Sports announced today an extension of their broadcast rights agreement through 2024 that will also expand the number of events covered. ARCA also released its 2023 broadcast schedule for the ARCA Menards Series.

For the first time in series history, FOX Sports will carry all 20 ARCA Menards Series races live on FS1 or FS2, an increase of 11 races from 2022 and 12 races from 2018-2021. All races will also be available live on the FOX Sports App to authenticated subscribers.

The new agreement extends a 26-year relationship between ARCA and FOX Sports that started in 1997.

“ARCA has a well-documented history of building long-term relationships with partners that add value to all stakeholders involved with the series. This is evidenced by our network television relationship with FOX Sports spanning more than 25 years,” said ARCA President Ron Drager. “Together, we deliver high quality motorsports content that reaches millions of homes, directly benefitting our fans, partners, race teams and tracks.”

“It’s amazing that 2023 will be FOX Sports’ 27th season with the ARCA Menards Series and Ron Drager and his team,” said Frank Wilson, VP, Event and Studio, FOX Sports. “The ARCA season opener in Daytona has always been a tentpole in our SpeedWeeks coverage, and now that we will carry the entire ARCA season, we look forward to continuing to deliver even more high-quality stock car racing all season long.”

FS1 will carry 14 ARCA Menards Series races in 2023 which is an increase of five from last year and six from 2021. All other races will air on FS2, including the series championship at Toledo Speedway.

Ten ARCA Menards Series races airing live on FS1 and FS2 will stream simultaneously on FloRacing – the OTT home of all NASCAR Roots series.

Once again, MRN will broadcast all ARCA Menards Series races that are companion with NASCAR national series events. Races will air on select MRN affiliates, MRN.com, ARCARacing.com and SiriusXM Satellite Radio.

The ARCA Menards Series celebrates its 71st anniversary season in 2023 and kicks it off with its 60th race at DAYTONA International Speedway. Click here for more highlights of the 2023 ARCA Menards Series schedule.

2023 ARCA Menards Series on FOX Sports and FloRacing

DATERACENETWORKSTART (ET)
Sat, Feb. 18DaytonaFS11:30 PM
Fri, March 10PhoenixFS28:00 PM
Sat, April 22TalladegaFS112:30 PM
Sat, May 6KansasFS12:00 PM
Fri, May 26CharlotteFS16:00 PM
Sat, June 17BerlinFS1 / FloRacing8:00 PM
Sat, June 24ElkoFS2 / FloRacing9:00 PM
Fri, July 7Mid-OhioFS1 / FloRacing6:00 PM
Sat, Jul 15IowaFS2 / FloRacing8:00 PM
Fri, July 21PoconoFS1 / FloRacing6:00 PM
Fri, Aug. 4MichiganFS1 / FloRacing6:00 PM
Fri, Aug. 11Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway ParkFS16:00 PM
Fri, Aug. 18Watkins GlenFS16:00 PM
Sun, Aug. 20Illinois State FairgroundsFS1 / FloRacing2:00 PM
Sun, Aug. 27MilwaukeeFS11:00 PM
Sun, Sept. 3DuQuionFS2 / FloRacing9:00 PM
Fri, Sept. 8Kansas 2FS16:00 PM
Thurs, Sept. 14BristolFS16:00 PM
Sat, Sept. 30SalemFS2 / FloRacing4:00 PM
Sat, Oct. 7ToledoFS2 / FloRacing4:00 PM

About ARCA

The Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA), founded in 1953 by John and Mildred Marcum in Toledo, Ohio, and acquired by NASCAR in April 2018, is the leading grassroots stock car sanctioning body in the United States. Bridging the gap between NASCAR’s top three national touring series and weekly racing all across the country, the organization administers more than 100 events annually, including the ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East, ARCA Menards Series West, plus weekly racing at Toledo and Flat Rock Speedways. For more information about ARCA visit www.arcaracing.com, or follow ARCA on Facebook (@ARCARacing) and Twitter (@ARCA_Racing).

HARRISON CONTRACTING COMPANY JOINS FULL GTD MICHELIN ENDURANCE CUP – A FIRST IN COMPANY HISTORY

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Official Release
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Atlanta, Ga. (December 9, 2022) — Harrison Contracting Company is proud to announce their title sponsorship with the No. 93 Acura NSX GT3 Evo22 for the 2023 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship Michelin Endurance Cup. Through its partnership with Wayne Taylor Racing (WTR), the Harrison Contracting Company’s red Acura will be operated by Racers Edge Motorsports in the four most prestigious endurance racing events in North America—the Rolex 24 at DAYTONA, Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, Sahlen’s Six Hours of the Glen and MOTUL Petit Le Mans. Ashton Harrison, Kyle Marcelli and Daniel Formal will pilot the GTD class entry, with decorated sports car driver Ryan Briscoe joining the lineup at Daytona.

With this program announcement, Harrison Contracting Company is expanding their presence in America’s pinnacle sports car series supported by Wayne Taylor Racing, who fields the championship-winning No. 10 Konica Minolta Acura ARX-06 in the new GTP LMDh prototype class. With a signature red Acura NSX GT3 Evo22 on the grid for every Endurance Cup event for the first time, they will be treating partners to world-class hospitality and B2B at some of the most exciting motorsports events on earth throughout the year.

Ashton Harrison is a four-year veteran of IMSA’s Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America sports car series with WTR. Accompanied by 2023 teammate Marcelli, she made her pinnacle endurance event debut with Acura, Racers Edge and WTR at the Twelve Hours of Sebring last year, finishing in the top 10 of the GTD PRO class. In addition, she became the first woman to win a championship in any category of GT World Challenge America. Harrison will look to take the momentum from her 2022 SRO title success with the Acura NSX platform to IMSA’s top category.

Marcelli and Formal are the reigning 2022 Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America PRO class Drivers’ Champions, having won the title with WTR. Marcelli has a wealth of experience at the WeatherTech and Michelin Pilot Challenge level of IMSA competition—a champion in the latter. Similarly, Formal has achieved extensive karting championships and has experience in GT racing. All three drivers, teammates within WTR, are keen to synergize in the continent’s top sports car series. Joining the stellar line-up for the Rolex 24 will be Australian-American driver Ryan Briscoe. The INDYCAR race-winner and sports car champion won a title with Ford’s legendary GT program in the late 2010’s, before conquering the Rolex in a WTR DPi in 2020.

Ashton Harrison can’t wait for the 2023 season to get going!

“I’m thrilled to be back in the IMSA paddock with the full Endurance Cup schedule alongside Harrison Contracting and Wayne Taylor Racing,” said Harrison. “It’s also very exciting to have Racers Edge back with us to tackle the season. Getting the opportunity to share our red Acura NSX GT3 Evo22 with my WTR teammates Kyle and Danny for a full season is going to be a hoot and having Ryan Briscoe join us as our fourth driver for the Rolex is very exciting. His experience and success in IMSA and at the Rolex speaks for itself. He’s a great addition to our team. We all have a great working relationship with Wayne Taylor Racing and Racers Edge and have high expectations for each other and the team going into the opening rounds at the Roar and Rolex.”

Harrison Contracting Company owners, CEO Calvin Pate and COO Chris Murphy, added their enthusiasm about this historic opportunity for the company.

“Much like Harrison Contracting, Ashton and her teammates have proven that the keys to success are being (R)eliable, continuously building their (E)xperience and being (D)iligent when times are challenging,” said Pate. “What an exciting time to be part of the growth of this team, the stellar driver lineup and the IMSA brand!”

Harrison COO Chris Murphy added, “I am excited to see our continued partnership with WTR and Racer’s Edge extend into the ‘23 Season. We look forward to success and seeing Ashton and the team continue to represent the HCC brand as we grow our exposure in this series.”

Bill Harrison, President and Co-Founder of Harrison Contracting Company, Inc., is thrilled about HCC’s increased presence in the IMSA paddock.

“It’s a very proud moment to be a part of IMSA and their high level of Sports Car racing,” said Harrison. “Being associated with HPD, WTR and Racers Edge is a really big deal, especially on this stage. Harrison Contracting and Ashton have come a long way from where we started 4 years ago. I really look forward to being a part of what we hope is history, and winning these endurance races!”

Wayne Taylor, Owner of Wayne Taylor Racing, is anticipating great teamwork from this all-star team and especially with three drivers who have all developed in IMSA under his team’s banner.

“This is a big deal for Ashton, who we have been nurturing to bring to this level,” said Taylor. “So far, she’s done a great job with Harrison Contracting Company who have put this program together by which we can run the endurance races. There will be a team of highly successful teammates with her, underlined by Ryan Briscoe, who I managed early in his career. Having him back in the stable is wonderful. Obviously, Danny and Kyle have done a great job for us this year in Super Trofeo and I truly think this is going to be the real deal for Ashton to show what she has against top-flight pro drivers, coming from two different Pro/Am entries last year. I believe that she’s ready for this and I’m happy that we’ve managed, collectively, with WTR, Racers Edge, HPD and Harrison, to put this program together for these long-distance races.”

Travis Houge, Vice President, General Manager of Wayne Taylor Racing is equally enthusiastic about the prospects of the drivers he oversees within WTR’s Driver Development Program.

“It’s exciting to see the partnership with Harrison Contracting Company go from Super Trofeo all the way into GTP and their own red GTD car,” said Houge. “It has been fantastic seeing Ashton develop over the years. Having her step in at Sebring last year and win a championship in SRO, this all ties it together. Bringing in Ryan Briscoe, he’s going to be a mentor. He’s a champion and his resume speaks for itself, so placing him with Kyle, Danny and Ashton who were already teammates in Lamborghini, is a true testament to what the Wayne Taylor Racing organization is trying to build—using the resources we have to bring people in, past, present and future and make it so they can go out and win races and sell their brand. With these four drivers, I don’t think there’s anyone out there who can say they have a much stronger lineup.”

Jon Mirachi, CEO of Racers Edge Motorsports, is bullish on his team’s increased IMSA schedule after their successful run at Sebring last year.

“This program is great!” said Mirachi. “To have the support of Harrison Contracting again for 2023 will allow for us to continue to build on our championship success from 2022. I couldn’t be more pleased to continue to work with Ashton Harrison, such a bright young talent and Kyle Marcelli, an experienced veteran, both of whom are past Racers Edge championship-winning drivers. Adding in Danny Formal, a rookie who’s coming off a championship season in an IMSA support series, then topping it off with an accomplished veteran like Ryan Briscoe for Daytona gives us a really strong lineup to take on the challenge of the full IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup Championship!”

The No. 93 Acura NSX will make its 2023 debut at the Roar Before the Rolex 24 on January 20-22. The main event, the Rolex 24 at DAYTONA weekend, runs from January 26-29. Tune into Harrison Atlanta’s, Racers Edge’s and WTR’s official social channels for content, news, updates, and further announcements.

ABOUT HARRISON CONTRACTING
Harrison Contracting Company, Inc. (HCC) is a commercial/industrial painting and facility maintenance contracting company headquartered in Villa Rica, GA with divisional offices in Florida and Texas. HCC provides painting program expertise to help maximize painting lifecycles and brand image! We have nationwide reach for repainting/reimaging and facility maintenance services, and new construction painting across the southeastern US. At HCC, red is more than our company color, it represents our Reliable, Experienced and Diligent (RED) culture. We are more than just your painter; we are your partner.

Follow @harrison_atlanta, @waynetaylorracing, @racersedgems on Instagram, @HarrisonContrCo, @WayneTaylorRcng, @RacersEdgeMS on Twitter, and all of our pages on Facebook!

How ABT CUPRA XE claimed a maiden victory in Uruguay

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Official Release
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ABT CUPRA XE collected their maiden Extreme E victory in style at the Uruguay Natural Energy X Prix, with Klara Andersson and Nasser Al-Attiyah claiming top spot at the Season 2 finale. It was the perfect end to a campaign of ups and downs.

The pairing of Andersson and Al-Attiyah have proven to be a success from the outset – after taking ABT CUPRA’s XE first Season 2 podium at the previous round in Chile. Andersson was retained for the finale in Punta del Este as Jutta Kleinschmidt continued her recovery following an accident at the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix in September.

The Swedish-Qatari pair were amongst the frontrunners throughout in Uruguay. What’s more, despite her minimal experience with the team, Andersson’s times in each session were among the fastest among the female drivers.

Nasser Al-Attiyah, ABT CUPRA XE, said: “I’m just happy that we finally have our first win under our belt. We’ve been fast all season, but it has never all come together. Klara did a fantastic job, was fast, aggressive at the right moments and always stayed cool.”

However, the road to victory in Punta del Este was not without challenges. This began on Saturday; while Andersson and Al-Attiyah finished both qualifying sessions in first place, post-session time penalties dropped them back to fifth place in overall qualifying classification.

Nevertheless, ABT CUPRA XE remained in a strong position to reach the Final as they were to take on Veloce Racing and No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing in Semi-Final 1.

In a closely-fought race, ABT CUPRA XE were classified third on course. However, multiple penalties accrued by No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing throughout their run ensured that so long as Andersson and Al-Attiyah kept out of trouble they would compete in their third Final in succession. That they did, thus entering the Uruguay Natural Energy X Prix Final as one of the favourites for victory.

As the lights went out in the Final, Al-Attiyah stormed to the front and into the lead of a race that neither he nor Andersson would surrender. The pair comfortably managed a gap over nearest challengers NEOM McLaren Extreme E to take ABT CUPRA XE’s first win in the series.

Klara Andersson, ABT CUPRA XE, said: “Today is a day full of emotions for me. I’ve been following Extreme E for a long time and was hoping for my chance – now I’ve got it in this great team, and I’ve given everything to make the most of it. The success belongs to the entire team, who welcomed me so warmly and supported me together with Nasser.”

Thomas Biermaier, ABT CEO, added: “Congratulations to Klara, Nasser and the entire team in Uruguay. This triumph was overdue and highly deserved. Our whole company watched the race at home and cheered along. This was the perfect conclusion to our second Extreme E season. It’s nice to see how the series is always evolving, breaking new ground and attracting more and more attention.”

To learn more about Extreme E, visit – www.Extreme-E.com

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation Passes Milestone of Five Million Vehicles Exported from Thailand

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Official Release
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TOKYO, Dec 9, 2022 – (JCN Newswire) – Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (hereafter, Mitsubishi Motors) announced today that it had passed the milestone of exporting five million vehicles from Thailand.

The local production and sales company, Mitsubishi Motors (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (hereafter, MMTh), currently has three production plants and one engine plant in Laem Chabang, Chonburi Province. This makes it Mitsubishi Motors’ largest production base outside of Japan.

Mitsubishi Motors established a sales company in Thailand in 1961 and began production in 1964. In 1988, the company became the first automotive manufacturer to start exporting from Thailand. Currently, MMTh has grown to export vehicles to more than 120 countries around the world, and in 2021, approximately 90 percent of the 340,000 vehicles* produced in Thailand were for export.

“Thailand is one of our most important bases, and its importance will continue to increase in the future,” said Takao Kato, president and chief executive officer, Mitsubishi Motors. “Reaching an export volume of five million vehicles is a step to the continuous growth and expansion of production volume in Thailand. We will continue to focus on Thailand as the main region that drives our activities in ASEAN countries, which are the foundation of our business. At the same time, we will contribute to the development of the automobile industry in Thailand.”

*Includes knockdown units.

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/.

Mitsubishi Motors’ All-New eK X EV Wins 2022-2023 Japan Car of the Year and K Car of the Year

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Official Release
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TOKYO, Dec 9, 2022 – (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), has won the 2022-2023 Japan Car of the Year and the K Car of the Year(2),(3).

In awarding the Japan Car of the Year, the organizing committee recognized the eK X EV for adopting Japanese kei-car standards, lowering the hurdle to owning a battery electric vehicle (EV) at a realistic vehicle price, and increasing the potential for battery EVs to spread in Japan. Also, before the full-fledged decarbonization era, the combination of kei-car and battery EV not only ensures freedom of mobility for many people including the elderly, but also shows the possibility of solving social issues in a situation where gas stations and public transportation are expected to decline. In terms of driving performance, many commented that its handling and dynamic performance surpass those of conventional kei-cars. It was also highly evaluated for its safety equipment including the 360 degree safety assist (all-around driver assistance system), which provides driver assistance features comparable to those of a luxury car.

In awarding the K Car of the Year, the organizing committee acclaimed the eK X EV as good value for money as an entry-level battery EV even within the category of kei-cars. It was also highly recognized for its driving range of 120 to 150 kilometers (km) in real terms, considering the expected usage environment, as well as for balancing handling stability and quietness at a high level, which many members of the selection committee also pointed out as the reasons for the Japan Car of the Year award.

This is the fifth time4 that Mitsubishi Motors has won the Japan Car of the Year, following the Galant and Legnum in 1996, and the third time5 that it has won an award in the kei-car category, following the eK X space and eK space in 2020.

“We are truly honored to receive the prestigious Japan Car of the Year awards,” said Takao Kato, president and chief executive officer, Mitsubishi Motors. “The electrification technology that we have honed over the years and our underlying strength in car manufacturing have been highly evaluated. We will continue to deliver vehicles that embody Mitsubishi Motors-ness – a combination of safety, security, comfort and environmental-friendliness – and that make driving even more fulfilling for our customers, while contributing to the realization of a carbon-neutral society.”

The eK X EV is a new EV model in the eK X series6, Mitsubishi Motors’ kei-car series with an SUV flavor, offered at an affordable price yet with a driving range of 180 km (in WLTC mode)(7), (8) on a single charge that is sufficient for everyday use. It has been well received for its spacious and pleasant cabin, user-friendliness, the smooth and powerful driving experience of EVs, a quiet and comfortable ride, advanced driver assistance systems, and connectivity. Since the premiere in May this year, around 7,500 orders have been received as of the end of November 2022.

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

About the 2022-2023 Car of the Year Japan

The awards of the 43rd Car of the Year Japan were given to models which premiered or started sales in the Japanese market from November 1, 2021 to October 31, 2022. This year, the 10 Best Cars were selected on November 4, and after the 10 Best Test Drive on November 24, the jury voted for each award. The results were announced on December 8, and winners were selected for the 2022-2023 Japan Car of the Year, Import Car of the Year, Design Car of the Year, Technology Car of the Year, Performance Car of the Year, and K Car of the Year.

(1) Kei-car is a vehicle category in Japan for microcars.
(2) Both awards are also won by the Nissan Sakura.
(3) Held by the Car of the Year Japan steering committee
(4) Previous winners include the Galant (1987), Diamante (1990), FTO (1994), and Galant and Legnum (1996).
(5) Previous winners include the eK X and eK wagon (2019), and eK X space and eK space (2020).
(6) Lineup includes eK X, a height-wagon kei-car, and eK X space, a super height-wagon kei-car.
(7) 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.
(8) 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/.

Professional MotorSport World Expo 2023

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SM
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Photo by Ralfs Blumbergs on Unsplash

Professional Motorsport World Expo is one of its kind event organized explicitly for motorsport enthusiasts. Although it is a niche market and not as big as other sports, its global fanbase is incredible.

It is also considered one of the biggest celebrations of motorsport. With the rise of sustainable powertrains and increasing access to advanced technology across the board, racing is undergoing a technological shift, which calls for events like these. 

Whether you are a team, manufacturer, dealer, or distributor, Professional MotorSport World Expo keeps you up-to-date with the latest solutions for your racing operation.

The first event was held in 2006, and since then, every November, the stage is set for hundreds of international exhibitors to showcase their innovations, attracting thousands of visitors annually.

What to expect in 2023?

The dates for the expo have been confirmed for 2023, and it will take place from 8 to 10 November 2023 at Messe Cologne. Eight themed segments will display premium products and services from top motor racing brands, suppliers, and influencers. Moreover, there will be a trade show featuring advanced technologies, accessories, gear, and equipment.

You can meet many individuals from various categories, including karting and drag racers, manufacturers, race managers, and crew members. Besides meeting professionals, the expo will host several events like onsite demonstrations, practical and educational tours, workshops, seminars, etc.

Why is it so special?

Conferences, live demonstrations, and technical workshops are key features of the Professional MotorSport World Expo. In addition, many activities will be available for attendees, including Testing & Development, Safety, Paddock Equipment, Logistics and Transportation, and Motorsport Business. 

The segments include engines, transmissions, components for race engines, tools, and accessories. In addition, each segment allows participants to network and discover new motorsport products and technologies.

The highlights of the event also include the Professional MotorSport World Expo Awards. The nominees compete for various tiles, such as Motorsport Facility of the Year, Powertrain Innovation of the Year, and Race Car of the Year.

Major motorsport events

The popularity of the professional motorsport World Expo is interrelated with exposure to motorsport events. Many people develop an interest in the sport after experiencing the thrill of motor races.

The following are major racing events that take place worldwide.

Monte Carlo rally

Every year, Club de Monaco organizes a rally along the French Riviera. Despite the occasional unpredictable weather, this race is exhilarating. At one point,  cars must race over a steep mountain road with several turns. 

Pikes Peak Hill Climb

It is the second oldest racing event in the U.S. and is also known as the Race to the Clouds. The race is 12.42 miles and finishes at Pikes Peak, 14,000 feet high. The race requires extra training from racers to stay focused and finish the track.

24 hours of Nurburgring

The first race was held in 1970. It is a 24-hour racing event, one of the most challenging races that take place in central Germany. It takes 200 cars and 700 race drivers to complete a 25 km long track. The race is packed with action and is considered a test of humans and cars.

Dakar Rally

It is an off-road-style rally race with multiple classes, including motorcycles, trucks, and cars. The Dakar Rally allows you to bet on sports that excite you. The race lasts two weeks, so you have a chance of winning big.

Monaco Grand Prix

It is one of the oldest races in Formula 1. The race takes place in Monte Carlo, and the track tests the driver because of its tight turns and plethora of twists, along with concrete barriers on both sides. The difficulty level of the race track makes it a popular race in F1.

Northern Tool + Equipment and Richard Petty Partner to Donate Tools to School

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Official Release
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Photo Credit: Northern Tool + Equipment

The donation from Petty and Northern Tool + Equipment’s Tools for the Trades™ program will help hundreds of students at Randleman High School for years to come

Randleman, North Carolina, December 8, 2022 — Northern Tool + Equipment and Richard Petty are launching a partnership and providing a significant donation of professional-grade tools to Petty’s alma mater, Randleman High School. The donation is taking place on December 8th with the help of Lincoln Electric and Ingersoll Rand. The donation is part of Northern Tool + Equipment’s Tools for the Trades™ program which is dedicated to making tool donations to schools to ensure they can expand their trade learning options and show students the valuable option of working in the trades. 

The partnership between Northern Tool + Equipment and Petty is fueled by Petty’s enthusiasm for the trades, particularly welding. Petty is joining Northern Tool + Equipment’s CEO, Suresh Krishna, to present the tools and gift cards to students in automotive and metals classes. 

“We started the Tools for the Trades™ program in 2021 to give instructors the proper tools to effectively teach the trades and ignite excitement and curiosity for the trades in students,” Krishna explains. “We work with men and women in the trades every day. We know there is a skilled labor shortage. This program can help address the labor shortage.” 

“Most people know about my NASCAR career, but welding has been a passion of mine since a young age,” said Petty. “Arming myself with a trade served me well in my post-racing days and is still an important part of the work we do at Petty’s Garage. Through this partnership, I hope more students will find a passion for the trades.” 

Together with Petty and Lincoln Electric, Northern Tool and Equipment’s Tools for the Trades™ program will be donating pallets full of tools that will help hundreds of students for years to come in the school’s Career and Technical Education programs, including a Lincoln Electric welder, Ingersoll Rand compressor and equipment ranging from hand tools to inverters to air hoses.

About Northern Tool + Equipment:

Northern Tool + Equipment is a family owned company serving both DIYers and trades professionals tackling the tough projects. A leading supplier of high-quality tools and equipment for 40 years, they have 130 U.S. retail locations and provide a deep selection of more than 110,000 products online. Northern Tool + Equipment’s highly trained Parts Service Repair team at many of their locations offers product maintenance and repair and has the professional and industry knowledge to support customers. With a passion for both giving back and helping to fill the trades labor shortage, the company’s Tools for the Trades™ program donates high-quality tools directly into school classrooms, helping teachers show students the value of working in the trades. Learn more about Northern Tool + Equipment at www.NorthernTool.com and stay connected to Northern Tool through social media: Facebook (@northerntool), Instagram (@northern_tool), Twitter (@northerntool), YouTube, Pinterest

About Lincoln Electric:

Lincoln Electric is the world leader in the engineering, design, and manufacturing of advanced arc welding solutions, automated joining, assembly and cutting systems, plasma and oxy-fuel cutting equipment, and has a leading global position in brazing and soldering alloys. Lincoln Electric is recognized as the Welding Expert™ for its leading material science, software development, automation engineering, and application expertise, which advance customers’ fabrication capabilities to help them build a better world. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Lincoln has 56 manufacturing locations in 19 countries and a worldwide network of distributors and sales offices serving customers in over 160 countries. For more information about Lincoln Electric and its products and services, visit the Company’s website at https://www.lincolnelectric.com. 

About Ingersoll Rand Inc.:

Ingersoll Rand Inc. (NYSE: IR), driven by an entrepreneurial spirit and ownership mindset, is dedicated to helping make life better for our employees, customers, and communities. Customers lean on us for our technology-driven excellence in mission-critical flow creation and industrial solutions across 40+ respected brands where our products and services excel in the most complex and harsh conditions.

Our employees develop customers for life through their daily commitment to expertise, productivity, and efficiency. For more information, visit www.IRCO.com.

NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team announces Emma Gilmour and Tanner Foust for 2023

By
Official Release
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8 December 2022, London: The NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team has announced that Emma Gilmour and Tanner Foust will drive for the team in Extreme E Season 3.

Gilmour and Foust joined the team for its inaugural season in the series in 2022. The pair helped NEOM McLaren Extreme E secure its first podium, finishing second in the final round of the Extreme E Season 2 campaign, the Uruguay Natural Energy X Prix in Punta del Este.

Gilmour, from New Zealand, is known for her vast experience in rallying, rallycross, cross-country rallying, and most recently competing in the first two seasons of Extreme E. In 2016 she became the first and only female to win a New Zealand Rally Championship event. She also won the FIA Women in Motorsport and Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) crosscountry rally selection in 2015. Emma is the first female driver to score a podium for McLaren, and also drove two rounds for Veloce Racing in Extreme E Season 1.

Foust is a four-time US rallycross champion (2019, 2012, 2011, 2010), has won four X Games gold medals (2013, 2010, 2007) and two Formula Drift championships (2008, 2007). The American also has a plethora of experience in stunt driving, ice racing, time attack and hill climb competition.

Emma Gilmour, NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team, said: “I’ve had an incredible first season with McLaren in 2022. We’ve really grown as a team, and it was lovely to be rewarded with a podium finish in Uruguay! I’m excited to be staying with McLaren for 2023 and can’t wait to get stuck into some new races while educating our audiences about the damaging effects of climate change.”

Tanner Foust, NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team, said: “It’s been awesome to be part of McLaren and Extreme E in 2022 and I’m thrilled to be racing again for the team in 2023! It’s been so much fun to race in some exciting locations with Emma and the team, while educating and inspiring sustainable action. I’m excited to see what 2023 holds.”

The NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team will be looking to build on their debut campaign in 2023, which begins in Saudi Arabia on 11-12 March.

Ian James, Managing Director, NEOM McLaren Electric Racing and Team Principal, NEOM McLaren Formula E Team, said: “It’s great to be able to announce Emma and Tanner as our Extreme E driver pairing for next season. They have shown their pace, dedication and drive during the team’s debut season, and have been two driving forces in the team’s learning and development during that period.

“Next season we are hoping to captitalise on the foundations we have put in place over the last year. Having Emma and Tanner remain with the team will prove invaluable as we will aim to stay on that upward trajectory as the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team.”

Zak Brown, CEO, McLaren Racing, said: “I am delighted that Emma and Tanner will remain with McLaren for 2023. The pair have proven themselves to be strong teammates both on and off the track, which culminated in a second-place finish during the Energy X Prix.

“With a season of Extreme E under our belt, I am excited to see how the team develops during 2023.”

To learn more about Extreme E, visit – www.Extreme-E.com

Sam Hunt Racing adds Grala, Mosack to driver lineup for 2023 Xfinity season

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Ted Seminara for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Sam Hunt Racing will be fielding two full-time entries while also introducing Kaz Grala and Connor Mosack as the team’s key competitors for the 2023 NASCAR Xfinity Series season.

The 23-year-old Grala from Boston, Massachusetts, will be piloting the team’s No. 26 Toyota Supra on a full-time basis while the 23-year-old Mosack from Charlotte, North Carolina, will be driving the No. 24 Toyota Supra in 20 Xfinity events for the upcoming season.

The news comes as Sam Hunt Racing based in Mooresville, North Carolina, prepares to enter its fifth season with at least one start in the Xfinity circuit. The team, which debuted as DRIVE Technology in 2013 and originally competed in the ARCA Menards Series East, made its inaugural presence in the Xfinity Series during the 2019 season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway with Colin Garrett piloting the team’s first entry. The team returned on a part-time basis in 2020 before fielding the No. 26 entry on a full-time basis in 2021 piloted by multiple competitors.

This past season, Sam Hunt Racing fielded the No. 26 entry on a full-time basis for a second consecutive season as the car was piloted by multiple competitors. The team also introduced a second entry, the No. 24 Toyota, for select events. Throughout the 2022 season, the No. 26 team finished in the top 10 five times with their best runs being fourth at Darlington Raceway in May and fifth at Phoenix Raceway in March. The No. 24 team made a single start at Daytona International Speedway in February, where Jeffrey Earnhardt piloted the entry to a 15th-place result.

Through a combined 78 career starts in the Xfinity Series made between 17 different competitors, Sam Hunt Racing has achieved three top-five results and seven top-10 results. Their best on-track result to date remains a third-place run at Richmond Raceway in September 2021 made by John Hunter Nemechek. The 2023 season will mark the team’s first opportunity to contend for the driver’s title with Grala.

“Timing and patience have been pivotal components of our growth process at SHR. Expanding to two full-time teams in 2023 brings an excitement level only matched by the responsibility and expectation to compete at a high level every week,” Sam Hunt, owner of Sam Hunt Racing, said. “It goes without saying that having a full-time driver in the No. 26 for the first time is a blessing to our organization and an important component of our growth. Kaz is a highly talented and experienced driver and has strived for an opportunity like this for a long time. Having Connor anchor the No. 24 team is something we are also really looking forward to. He is a very talented young man and has every trait and characteristic I look for in a young driver. We’re heading into 2023 with confidence in both teams and drivers, and I’m excited to continue to build this program with each of them.”

For Grala, the 2023 season will mark his first opportunity competing in the Xfinity circuit on a full-time basis. It will also mark his second full-time campaign overall within NASCAR’s top three national touring series after competing in the Craftsman Truck Series on a full-time basis in 2017 with GMS Racing. During the season, Grala notched his lone career victory at Daytona and became the youngest NASCAR winner at Daytona at age 18 years, one month and 26 days. He went on to make the 2017 Truck Playoffs before finishing in seventh place in the final standings.

This past season, Grala competed in a combined 25 starts across NASCAR’s top three national touring series, 10 of which occurred in the Xfinity Series. His best run occurred at Watkins Glen International in August, where he finished fifth while driving for Big Machine Racing. He made his first start with Sam Hunt Racing during the 2022 Xfinity Series finale at Phoenix Raceway in November, where he finished 23rd.

Through 44 career starts in the Xfinity Series, Grala has achieved five top-five results, 10 top-10 results, 18 laps led and an average-finishing result of 18.6. His highest result in the series are a pair of fourth-place finishes at Daytona in 2018 and at Road America in 2020.

“I’ve scratched and clawed for each opportunity over the past several seasons, and while it hasn’t been easy, it’s made me appreciate this sport and its difficulty more than I ever could have if things had been easy,” Grala said. “I feel like everything has finally come together at the perfect time in my life with the right team around me to start that next chapter in my career. I couldn’t be more proud and hopeful heading into 2023 with Sam Hunt Racing with a chance to compete for a championship. I’ve worked my whole life to get to this point, and I intend to make the absolute most of it next year and beyond.”

Mosack, the 2020 CARS Tour Rookie of the Year and a Trans Am TA2 class competitor, made his NASCAR national touring series debut in June 2022 at Portland International Raceway, where he piloted Joe Gibbs Racing’s No. 18 Toyota Supra to a 28th-place finish. He returned at Watkins Glen with Sam Hunt Racing, where he finished a season-best 15th. He also made two starts in the Truck Series and eight starts in the ARCA Menards Series, both with Bret Holmes Racing.

Mosack’s first Xfinity start in 2023 will occur at Phoenix Raceway in March with the rest of his schedule yet to be determined.

“Being able to run 20 races in the Xfinity Series next year is a really big deal to me,” Mosack said. “Two years ago, I didn’t really know where I was going or how I was going to get there. Racing in this series is a big step toward where I want to go, and I’m excited it is with a team like Sam Hunt Racing. With SHR being a growing team, I know I can develop relationships with everyone involved and continue to learn from them. I’ve enjoyed getting to know Sam and trust that his team and values will help to develop me as a driver.”

In addition to the new driver lineup, Sam Hunt Racing welcomes Kris Bowen, formally from Our Motorsports, as the crew chief of the No. 24 entry. Allen Hart is expected to remain as Grala’s crew chief for the 2023 season.

The rest of the team’s driver lineup for the No. 24 “all-star” entry, including one for the season-opening event at Daytona in February, will be announced at a later date.

With their plans for the upcoming season announced, Sam Hunt Racing’s 2023 season is set to commence at Daytona on February 18. The event is slated to occur at 5 p.m. ET on FS1.

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