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Gragson Poised to Turn Luck Around This Weekend at the Brickyard

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Official Release
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Ford Performance Notes and Quotes
NASCAR Cup Series
Indianapolis Media Availability
Wednesday, July 23, 2025

Noah Gragson, driver of the No. 4 Front Row Motorsports Ford Mustang Dark Horse for Front Row Motorsports, talked about this weekend’s upcoming race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway during Ford’s weekly media call.

NOAH GRAGSON, No. 4 Front Row Motorsports Ford Mustang Dark Horse – IT’S BEEN A FRUSTRATING COUPLE OF WEEKS, BUT THE GOOD THING ABOUT THIS SPORT IS THERE’S ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY EVERY WEEK, SO HOW ARE YOU LOOKING AT THIS WEEKEND IN THE BRICKYARD 400? “We’re excited for it. I think Indy is an awesome place. I had a lot of fun there last year, so that being said, I’m excited. It’s another week to get onto the racetrack and try to have a good run. We’ve had good speed pretty much all year, just have had atrocious, atrocious luck getting collected in wrecks. It’s been a bummer, but we’re looking forward to the positives and that’s the opportunity that’s ahead.”

YOUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL IS VERY ENTERTAINING. WHAT IS YOUR PHILOSOPHY OF POSTING THE KIND OF THINGS YOU DO? “I probably have a bolder personality than other guys in the field that I show, and I want to give some behind the scenes on what the race weekend is like, what I do and it will be good memories to look back at one day. The YouTube videos and stuff, there’s Legend Car races on there from back in the day. I’ll go back and watch those every once in a while and it will be something cool to show my kids one day.”

DOES IT HELP TO KNOW YOU HAVE A MULTI-YEAR CONTRACT AND AREN’T IN THE SITUATION YOU WERE A YEAR AGO? THERE’S SOME STABILITY NOW. “It’s great knowing that Bob Jenkins and Jerry Freeze ultimately have everyone’s best interests. It’s definitely been a wild ride in my Cup career, but I’m very grateful for the opportunity to run at Front Row Motorsports. It’s been a home for me there, so I hope to race there for many more years.”

WHAT IS THE DYNAMIC LIKE AT FRM WITH YOU AND YOUR TEAMMATES BEING SO YOUNG? “I think it allows us, because we’re all friends and it’s not a forced relationship. Sometimes you have teammates where it’s a forced relationship and we naturally get along really well, so I think we all have each other’s best interest in mind. We want what’s best for the organization and we work together really well. I’ve been really pleased to see how Todd and Zane and I have been as teammates. We help each other on the track. We help each other off the track. I think having young guys, this question came up last year. We had a pretty young roster over at Stewart-Haas as well and when you get a veteran in the room you almost become hesitant to talk. You more want to listen and take in all of the information. Now, I think we have really open dialogue conversations and we’re able to speak what we really feel, where sometimes you might be hesitant when there’s a veteran in the room and you really don’t want to open your mouth. So, I think that’s a positive. We’re all pretty honest with each other. If we see something out of each other, we help each other grow and that’s probably the most important thing is having each other’s backs. I feel really good having Todd and Zane as teammates. I think we can keep on growing Front Row Motorsports and build it up to an organization that just raises the standard each and every year. I’m really confident with what we’ve got right now and can’t wait to see what the future looks like.”

WHAT KIND OF CONVERSATIONS HAVE YOU AND DREW HAD WITH ALL OF THIS BAD LUCK OF LATE? HOW DO YOU HANDLE THOSE SITUATIONS GOING INTO INDY? “I think the beginning of the year, the thing we’ve kind of banked in is our speed when we show up. We started last this past weekend because we got spun out twice at Sonoma. The second time it took us out of the race, so we started last or second-to-last and drove up within the top 15. We just kept chipping away at it all day and put ourselves in a decent opportunity up in the top 10 at the end of the race this past weekend. That’s kind of been the story of the year. The 54 hit us and wheel-barrowed us down the front straightaway and wrecked. I’ve just gotten collected in a lot of wrecks and it’s pretty frustrating. I think the speed of our race cars keep us focused and confident when we go to the track. If you don’t have the speed and you’re getting in wrecks, you’re like, ‘Man, I can’t catch a break.’ But, right now, it goes up and down. The beginning of the year we were just kind of trying to sell blue sky. It’s gonna be OK. This is eventually gonna turn, and maybe more than ever we’re telling ourselves that, but we have the speed. The speed is not a huge issue. It doesn’t matter if we’re 30th or fifth or anywhere in between, it seems like we just get caught up in a wreck. I look at this year. At the Daytona 500, we’re up in the top six or seven in the closing laps and Stenhouse and Logano get into each other and we get collected in that. Then we go to Atlanta and the 99 spins up the racetrack and clips us in the left-rear. We go to Vegas and Phoenix and get collected and wrecked there. I mean, we’re running seventh at Vegas with Blaney at the start of stage three, drove up there and had good cars. It’s just like, ‘Man.’ We’ve just got to finish these things. Never in my career in anything has, I’m not a big believer in luck, but maybe I am now because I don’t know who I pissed off or what happened, but it’s definitely not going our way this year. We just try to look forward to the next week and work as hard as possible and focus on the future and just take it one week at a time. We just said, ‘Hey, we’ve got an opportunity this weekend at Indy. Let’s prepare like we’re gonna try and win the race.’ No matter what happens, it’s definitely degrading I would say to wreck. It’s almost like you don’t know which way is up at times, but you just have to try and keep the confidence and stay focused, and I feel like for as bad as it’s gone this year result-wise, we’ve kept a pretty level head in the grand scheme of things. I’m proud of the team we’ve got. I’m proud of Drew. It’s almost to the point right now where we’re frustrated, but we just laugh. We’ll be like, ‘Come on, man. Dude, I don’t know what to tell you.’ It’s just one of those years. We keep believing in each other. If we trust each other, it’ll turn around eventually. It’s kind of like roulette. If you keep betting on black and it’s hitting red, eventually it’s gonna turn. We’ll see. It’s not a question of if, it’s just when.”

WHAT WAS YOUR MENTALITY GOING INTO LAST WEEK KNOWING THE LAST THING YOU NEED TO DO IS GET CAUGHT UP IN A WRECK, AND THEN TO SEE IT UNFOLD LIKE IT DID AT THE END? “You’ve got to be aggressive. In 2023, I wrecked a lot on my own and tore up a lot of stuff. I feel like it’s different this year. I have definitely made mistakes, but a majority of the instances I’ve been an innocent bystander in the situation, in my opinion. For those that pay attention, I feel like they probably agree, but like we chipped away at it this weekend. We started 36th and worked our way up in the top 15. We were running eighth when we got involved in that crash. It’s challenging because you don’t want to be tearing up stuff. It would be one thing if I was spinning out and wrecking every weekend. I think that’s a little more challenging of a situation, but I feel like I’m in pretty good control. You just try and take it week by week and prepare like it’s gonna be a smooth, solid race and a clean race, but obviously stuff happens and we’ve seen examples of that this year.”

DO YOU FEEL LIKE AS YOU MATURE THESE CHALLENGES ARE WHAT A LOT OF PEOPLE GO THROUGH AND THE ONES WHO SUCCEED ARE THE ONES THAT DON’T LET THOSE THINGS TEAR THEM APART? “Yeah, that’s what they say, I guess. The great ones go through challenges, but, I don’t know, I’m kind of over it. I just want a week to go good, but I know that it does definitely build you up during these times. You definitely work on yourself and focus on yourself and just try to become better. When you’re winning every race and you’re on top of the world, you don’t feel like you need a lot of improvement, but it’s times when you’re in the trenches where you really get down in the weeds and look at yourself in the mirror and have a lot of reflection. It’s tough, but we’ll get through it.”

FRM HAS BEEN QUALIFYING WELL ON OVALS. WHAT DOES THE TEAM NEED THIS WEEKEND SPECIFICALLY AT INDY? “Having a fast car. That’s every week. Having a fast car and having track position and driving as fast as you can.”

HOW DO YOU FEEL THE IN-SEASON CHALLENGE HAS GONE? WOULD YOU CHANGE ANYTHING? “I like it. It’s all good. I have no complaints.”

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT STREET RACES IN THE FUTURE? “I don’t know. I haven’t seen the schedule yet, so I can’t really comment on any of that, but the street races are fun.”

HAVE YOU PAID ATTENTION TO THE FACT BRISTOL IS GOING TO HAVE AN MLB GAME INSIDE THE TRACK NEXT WEEK? “I think it’s really cool that they’re doing that. It’s out of the ordinary. I remember when, who was it? Virginia Tech and Tennessee played. That was super cool how they’re able to transform the track. It’s just a completely different atmosphere. It’s almost like when they play basketball on the aircraft carrier. or the Winter Classic in the outdoor stadiums for hockey. It’s just a different atmosphere, and I think it’s really cool, and I think people want to be a part of it. I don’t know what the ticket sales are, but I imagine they’re probably really good. I know when they announced it I was like, ‘OK, I want to go to that,’ but I don’t think that’s in the forecast, unfortunately. It’s definitely gonna be cool just being able to race there and being a driver that’s raced there and won there, knowing what that place means to me. Having a different sport there and demographic, a different fan base I should say, I think it’s definitely good for the sport of NASCAR because people will go to the track and say, ‘Wow, look at this place. This is incredible,’ and maybe they might come to a race. I think it’s a great cross-promotion between MLB and NASCAR because it will get some NASCAR fans out to the baseball game when they might not go to a baseball game, or they don’t have a baseball team near them in Bristol, Tennessee, so it’s definitely super, super unique and very exciting, I think. I like Elly De La Cruz, so I’ll be cheering him on. It’ll be cool.”

IF YOU HAD TO MAKE A ROSTER OUT OF NASCAR DRIVERS BESIDES THE DILLONS, WHO WOULD YOU WANT ON A TEAM? “I’d probably take Ricky Stenhouse, just because we’ve got good chemistry together. Probably Austin. Ty might be decent. I’d probably take Denny. He’s an athletic guy. He could do a lot of sports – kind of the guys with hand-eye coordination. You’re talking guys who can throw a football or shoot a basketball, maybe golfers – so probably a Chase Elliott and Bubba and Ryan Blaney, but maybe Briscoe. Briscoe has been throwing a lot of first pitches out at these games, trying to collect these DAP points, so he’s been on the mound a lot lately, so he might be our pitcher, or he might be in the bullpen. I would probably say those guys.”

IOWA FOLLOWS INDIANAPOLIS. I KNOW THERE ARE SOME PATCHES IN THE TURNS AND IT’S A ROUGH SURFACE, SO WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ABOUT THAT TRACK? “I used to love that place. It’s still alright. It’s just like a racetrack now, but it used to be super cool. I don’t know why they only repaved sections of the corners, like the bottom half of the corners. They should have just either repaved the whole track or repaved the whole corners, so you could move around. It’s kind single lane, so I don’t know whose thought process that was, other than the only reason would be they didn’t have the money to do it. It’s kind of just another track for us now. I think all of us in the field will probably say that it was the best track ever. Before, I raced in Xfinity cars and Trucks and in the K&N Series back in the day, ARCA now, we all loved it and now it’s kind of just running around the bottom. It’s just another track, unfortunately, but I still love going out there. The people and the fans are great. Iowa is super cool. It’s what we’ve got, but I wish they would have repaved the whole entire corner, so you could run the top, the middle, the bottom. That’s what made that track so great is you had four different lanes. You could run and they were all pretty fast, and wherever you got your car set up, you could run there. It was the perfect racetrack, but I think a common theme between racetracks these days is you’ve got to appreciate them when they’re good because you don’t know how long they’ll stay good.”

HOW IS THE GOLF GAME GOING? “I haven’t really played a whole lot. It’s been way too hot out. I haven’t played a ton, but I hope to play more when it cools down, for sure. It’s decent. I’m like a 13.5 handicap – not great.”

Front Row Motorsports: Indianapolis Motor Speedway Competition Notes – Noah Gragson

By
Official Release
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Noah Gragson and the No. 4 Rush Truck Centers Ford Team
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Competition Notes
Brickyard 400

Date: Sunday, July 27, 2025
Event: Race 24 of 38
Series: NASCAR Cup Series
Location: Indianapolis Motor Speedway (2.5-miles)
#of Laps: 160
Time/TV/Radio: 2:00 PM ET on TNT Sports/SiriusXM channel 90

Noah Gragson Notes

Following Sunday’s race at the Dover Motor Speedway, the NASCAR Cup Series heads to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the famed Brickyard 400. For Noah Gragson and Crew Chief Drew Blickensderfer, the duo heads into the weekend looking to top last year’s ninth-place finish.

Rush Truck Centers returns this weekend with Gragson and the No. 4 Ford Mustang Dark Horse team. Cummins also joins Rush Truck Centers for the 160-lap race. Cummins Inc., a global power solutions leader, is comprised of five business segments – Components, Engine, Distribution, Power Systems and Accelera by Cummins – supported by their global manufacturing and extensive service and support network, skilled workforce and vast technological expertise. From buses that transport kids to and from school to the trucks that carry essentials, to construction, mining equipment, trains and ships, and critical backup power for places like data centers and hospitals, Cummins powers the future through innovations that make people’s lives better. Cummins is committed to its Destination Zero strategy – the company’s commitment to sustainability and helping its customers successfully navigate the energy transition with its broad portfolio of products. Learn more at cummins.com.

“This season hasn’t gone the way we hoped, but we’re staying optimistic heading into Indy,” said Gragson. “Finishing ninth there last year gives the team and I some added confidence going into the weekend. It’s great to have Rush Truck Centers and Cummins with us—we’re hoping to put together a solid run for them.”

Road Crew

Driver: Noah Gragson

Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada

Crew Chief: Drew Blickensderfer

Hometown: Decatur, Illinois

Car Chief: Joey Forgette

Hometown: Iron Mountain, Michigan

Engineer: Dillon Silverman

Hometown: Chico, California

Engineer: Scott Bingham

Hometown: Lawrenceville, Georgia

Mechanic: Chris Trickett

Hometown: Grafton, West Virginia

Mechanic: Tony Infinger

Hometown: Fort Valley, Georgia

Tire Specialist: Chris Aunspaw

Hometown: Zelienople, Pennsylvania

Engine Tuner: Matt Moeller

Hometown: Monroe, New York

Spotter: Nick Del Campo

Hometown: Blauvelt, New York

Transporter Co-Driver: Nate “Cookie” Eller

Hometown: Granite Falls, North Carolina

Transporter Co-Driver: Matt Murphy

Hometown: Augusta, Georgia

Pit Crew

Front Tire Changer: Thomas Hatcher

Hometown: Middleburg, Florida

Rear Tire Changer: Adam Riley

Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia

Tire Carrier: Jarren Davis

Hometown: Jacksonville, Florida

Jackman: Nate McBride

Hometown: Vidalia, Georgia

Fueler: Ray Hernandez

Hometown: Orlando, Florida

ABOUT RUSH TRUCK CENTERS

More than a dealer network, Rush Truck Centers is the premier solutions provider for the commercial vehicle industry. With more than 150 Rush Truck Centers dealerships across the U.S. and Ontario, Canada, no one can match our network reach and scale. We provide our customers an integrated, one-stop approach to the service and sales of new and used trucks and commercial vehicles, aftermarket parts, service and collision repair capabilities, alternative fuel systems, vehicle technology solutions, and a range of financial services including financing, insurance, and leasing and rental options. Since 1965, we’ve earned our reputation for excellence, fairness, positive attitude and solutions that exceed customer expectations. That’s why we can say with confidence; when it comes to trucking, no one offers you more. Visit rushtruckcenters.com or follow us on social media: X @rushtruckcenters, Instagram @rush_truck_centers and facebook.com/rushtruckcenters.

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. 4, No. 34, and the No. 38 NASCAR Cup Series teams along with the No. 34 and No. 38 Craftsman Truck Series teams from its Mooresville, N.C. headquarters. Visit teamfrm.com and follow FRM on social media: Twitter at @Team_FRM, Instagram at @teamfrm and Facebook at facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

Toyota GAZOO Racing Weekly Preview 07.23.25

By
Official Release
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This Week in Motorsports: July 21 – 27, 2025

· NCS/NXS: Indianapolis Motor Speedway – July 25-27

· NCTS/ARCA: Indianapolis Raceway Park – July 25

· NHRA: Sonoma Raceway – July 25-27

PLANO, Texas (July 23, 2025) – NASCAR and NHRA remain in action this weekend, stretching from coast-to-coast as Team Toyota searches for more victories. The NASCAR Cup and Xfinity Series take on the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway, culminating with the Crown Jewel Brickyard 400, while the Truck and ARCA Menards Series race at nearby Indianapolis Raceway Park (IRP). NHRA stays out west and returns to Sonoma Raceway with just three races remaining before the Countdown to the Championship.

NASCAR National Series – NCS/NXS/NCTS

Gibbs with a shot at $1 million … This weekend’s Brickyard 400 marks the finale of NASCAR’s inaugural In-Season Challenge for the Cup Series, where Ty Gibbs is the lone Toyota Camry XSE remaining. The Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) driver has defeated Justin Haley, AJ Allmendinger, Zane Smith and Tyler Reddick on his road to the finals, and will take on Ty Dillon on Sunday for a chance to win $1 million.

Hamlin now series leader in wins … Another triumph by Denny Hamlin at Dover Motor Speedway last weekend gave the JGR driver four wins in the 2025 Cup Series season, the most in the series through 21 races. Hamlin is now halfway to his career-best mark of eight wins in a season, which he accomplished in 2010, and heads to Indianapolis Motor Speedway where he chases an elusive Brickyard 400 win. Last weekend’s victory also pushed Hamlin up to fourth in the Cup Series points standings, as he now leads the Toyota Camry XSE contingent.

Almirola looks to continue strong 2025 … In eight Xfinity Series starts this season, Aric Almirola has driven the No. 19 Toyota GR Supra to six top-10-or-better finishes, including his win at Phoenix in March. Almirola returns to Indianapolis Motor Speedway this weekend where he nearly missed out on victory one year ago, coming home in third in a dramatic finish.

Friesen makes 200th career start … Friday night’s Truck Series race at IRP will be the 200th in the career of Stewart Friesen. In his previous 199 starts, the Canadian has accrued four career victories, including last month at Michigan International Speedway, 51 top-fives and 91 top-10s. Friday night will be his fourth career start at IRP, with a career-best finish of fourth in 2022.

Heim with a chance to clinch regular season title … Corey Heim has had a dominant 2025 season in the NASCAR Truck Series with five wins, nine top-fives and 11 top-10s, as well as three pole positions, in 15 races so far this season. The Toyota Development Driver currently holds a 144-point lead in the series points standings and needs 39 points on Friday at IRP to clinch the regular season championship. Friday will also be the 80th career start in the Truck Series for Heim and his fourth at IRP, where he looks to improve upon a career-best result of fifth in 2022.

NASCAR Regional Series – ARCA Menards Series National/East

Crews takes on double duty … Toyota Development Driver Brent Crews is set to have a busy Friday at IRP, running both the ARCA Menards Series (No. 18 Toyota Camry with JGR) and Truck Series (No. 1 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro with TRICON Garage) races at the 0.686-mile short oval. Crews is making his fifth ARCA start this season with JGR, where he has two victories – Phoenix (National) & Rockingham (East). In Trucks, Friday is his third start of the season after running North Wilkesboro and Lime Rock Park earlier this year.

Corry makes ARCA debut … Chicago-native Sam Corry will pilot the No 70 Toyota Camry for Nitro Motorsports this weekend at IRP, his debut in ARCA competition. The 17-year-old has raced in and been victorious in a variety of motorsport categories already in his young career, including a win in the TransAm TA2 Series with Nitro Motorsports at Lime Rock Park in May.

NHRA – Top Fuel/Funny Car

Toyota aims to continue Top Fuel streak … After Shawn Langdon’s victory in Seattle last weekend, Toyota has now won four consecutive Top Fuel races entering Sonoma Raceway. Langdon’s triumph, which put him in the Top Fuel points lead, follows Steve Torrence’s victory at Bristol and Justin Ashley’s wins at Richmond and Norwalk in June. Toyota also now holds a more than 1,000-point lead in NHRA’s Manufacturer’s Cup, seeking to repeat its maiden title from last season.

Brown looks for Sonoma repeat … Defending Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown is back at Sonoma Raceway where he aims to repeat his victory from a season ago. The victory was the third of six race wins for the four-time champ last season and his fifth career win at Sonoma. Another victory at the California dragstrip will be paramount for Brown to repeat his world championship with the Countdown to the Championship just around the corner.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for nearly 70 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs nearly 64,000 people in North America who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 49 million cars and trucks at our 14 manufacturing plants. In spring 2025, Toyota’s plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 32 electrified options.

For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

What Is Color Temperature — And How It Affects the Mood in a Room

By
SM
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Photo by depositphotos at https://depositphotos.com/

Color temperature is one of those things most people don’t think about — but it has a big impact on how a room feels. We focus on wall colors, furniture, layout… and forget that lighting has a personality too. Its tone can make a space feel warm and calm, or bright and focused. And all of that comes down to color temperature.

What Does Color Temperature Actually Mean?

It’s the shade of the light — not how strong it is, but what color it leans toward. This is measured in Kelvins (K).
A lower number = warmer, more yellow light. A higher number = cooler, bluish-white light.

Here’s the breakdown:

  • 2700K–3000K: soft and warm. Think table lamps, fireplaces, evening light.
     
  • 3500K–4000K: neutral white. Clear but not cold. Often used in kitchens or bathrooms.
     
  • 5000K–6500K: cool, bright, close to daylight. Used in workspaces, garages, or anywhere focus is important.
     

It’s not about brightness. It’s about how the light feels in the room — and how it makes you feel.

How It Affects Mood

Color temperature can change how we react to a space.

Warm light makes a room feel relaxed and calm. That’s why it works so well in bedrooms and living rooms — spaces where you want to slow down, unwind, and disconnect.

Cool light helps with concentration. It feels sharper, cleaner — good for offices, kitchens, or task-heavy areas where visibility and alertness matter. Even subtle differences in temperature can affect how productive or restful we feel.

The temperature you choose tells your brain what the room is “for.” Want to wind down? Use warm tones. Need energy? Go cooler.

Making It Work at Home

You don’t need to guess. Most lightbulbs now show the Kelvin rating on the box, so you can pick what fits each space.

Some lighting fixtures even let you adjust color temperature depending on the time of day or what you’re doing — warm for the evening, cooler for working. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in your daily routine and comfort.

The best approach? Think of lighting the way you think of furniture or paint — not as a final touch, but as part of the design from the start.

At union lighting, you’ll find lighting designed with both function and mood in mind. Their range includes everything from ceiling lights to floor lamps, many with dimmable or adjustable settings to suit your space.

Take a look at their full collection here: https://unionlighting.com

Because light isn’t just for seeing — it’s part of how a room feels, works, and lives with you.

Is Auto Mechanics a Dying Profession?

By
SM
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Photo by depositphotos at https://depositphotos.com/

You’ve likely heard the whispers: “The auto mechanic industry is changing fast.” Electric vehicles, mobile services, and advanced tech are rewriting the playbook.

But hold on. Does this mean traditional auto repair is becoming obsolete? Or is it simply evolving?

Have you noticed fewer cars pulling into your shop? Or maybe you’re struggling to keep up with tech-savvy competitors offering on-the-go services, all made easier by mobile mechanic software.

It’s fair to wonder: does the auto mechanic profession have a future as we know it?

Let’s take a closer look at what’s really happening in the industry and what repair shops can do to stay ahead.

What’s Happening to the Auto Mechanic Industry?

With so many changes, it’s natural to wonder what’s really going on in the auto mechanic industry.

Let’s break down what’s actually driving change in the auto repair world.

1. Tech Evolution = Industry Overhaul:

Today’s cars aren’t just mechanical; they’re digital machines packed with sensors, chips, and onboard computers.

2. Rise of Electric Vehicles (EVs):

EVs have fewer moving parts, which translates to less frequent repairs. But they bring new challenges, like battery diagnostics and electric drivetrains.

3. The Mobile Mechanic Boom:

Today’s consumers value convenience. Mobile mechanic software allows pros to perform precise diagnostics and repairs on-site. This shift creates intense competition for traditional shop setups.

4. Labor Shortages and Skill Gaps:

Fewer young techs are entering the trade. And those already in it need constant training to handle new tech.

The real challenge isn’t that the profession is dying. It’s about adapting to these significant changes.

The Problems Auto Repair Shops Face

Imagine a customer pulling up. Frustrated that they can’t get an appointment. You’re already on your way to their driveway, thanks to your mobile scheduling software.

These changes are hitting shop owners hard. Let’s break down the specific problems they’re facing every day.

1. Keeping Up with Vehicle Technology

Modern cars feature adaptive cruise control, AI-powered diagnostics, and auto-parking systems. For mechanics, handling these systems requires significant upskilling and investment in high-tech tools. Meanwhile, customers expect you to figure it out overnight.

Solution: Start small by training your team on diagnostic tools and investing in scalable tech solutions. The software can help simplify your workflow, saving precious time and resources.

2. Declining Walk-Ins

Ever wondered why your waiting area feels quieter?

Since mobile mechanics offer repairs right in customers’ driveways, fewer people are making shop appointments. The convenience factor is hard to beat.

Solution: Fewer people are walking into your shop, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need help. The software lets you meet customers where they are. You can schedule jobs fast and send reminders automatically from a single platform. You don’t lose the job, you just deliver it differently.

3. Staffing Issues

You can’t run a repair shop without skilled techs. But finding and keeping talent is harder than rebuilding a seized engine. Younger generations often see mechanics as outdated, adding to the labor shortage.

Solution: Showcase the high-tech side of the profession. Share stories of how your shop embraced EVs and digital processes to attract talent who are excited about the fusion of mechanics and tech.

4. Customer Expectations

Today’s customers demand speed, accuracy, and transparency. They expect real-time updates, worry-free repairs, and zero mistakes.

Solution: Tech tools like job-tracking systems can keep customers in the loop. The automation software enables diagnostic accuracy to hit professional benchmarks every time.

Each of these challenges might feel overwhelming, but with the right tools, you can set the pace.

Why Mobile Mechanic Software Is Becoming a Lifesaver?

A powerful way to tackle these challenges is through modern software.

For instance, Torque360 offers tools that simplify scheduling, diagnostics, and customer communication, making it easier for shops to adapt to modern demands.

Here’s why:

1. On-the-go diagnostics:

Customers love repairs done on their turf. The software equips your team to handle advanced diagnostics right at the customer’s location.

2. Simplified bookings:

With scheduling tools, you can manage bookings and technician assignments seamlessly.

3. Cost efficiency:

More accurate diagnostics mean fewer wasted hours, parts, and reduced overhead.

4. Customer trust:

Real-time updates and transparent estimations improve the customer experience.

Whether you’re solo or running a team, auto repair shop management software helps you stay ahead.

What’s the Future of Auto Mechanics?

So, what does the road ahead look like for auto mechanics?

Here’s the deal:

Auto mechanics aren’t vanishing in the rearview mirror. Instead, the industry is undergoing a thrilling transformation. Shops that cling to outdated ways will struggle, but those that adapt will thrive. 

Want to thrive in this high-tech landscape?

Start by exploring tools, focus on training, and offer flexible service models. It’s time to shift gears and steer your business into the future.

Conclusion

The auto repair industry isn’t dying, it’s being reborn. Sure, the emergence of EVs, on-demand repairs, and labor gaps presents unique challenges.

Each challenge is a chance to evolve. Whether you run a traditional shop or a mobile service, using mobile mechanic software can make all the difference.

Ready to take your shop into the future? Start exploring these tools today.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What skills should modern auto mechanics focus on?  

Mechanics should focus on electric vehicle servicing, diagnostic software, and digital tools. EV-specific training and coding knowledge can also set you apart. 

2. Can traditional shops compete with mobile mechanics?  

Absolutely! By integrating mobile services and adopting efficient tools, traditional shops can still cater to convenience-loving customers.

3. Is EV maintenance really simpler?  

EVs have fewer moving parts, so less frequent repairs, but their complex battery, sensor, and software systems require specialized expertise.

4. Will auto mechanic jobs disappear because of self-driving cars?  

Not at all. Autonomous vehicles will add layers of complexity that only skilled professionals can manage, such as lidar calibration, software debugging, and advanced diagnostics.

5. How can auto repair shops future-proof their business?  

Use smart tools, train your team right, and give your customers a stress-free experience from start to finish. Don’t shy away from promoting your ability to service EVs and hybrids, too.

New Hampshire Motor Speedway Goodyear Tire Test Media Package

By
Official Release
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Defending New Hampshire Motor Speedway NASCAR Cup Series race winner, Christopher Bell, driver of the No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota, drives through turn three during a Goodyear Tire Test at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on Tuesday. Photo Credit: NHMS/Jill Torres

Christopher Bell, Joey Logano and Ross Chastain gear up for an action-packed NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs weekend at “The Magic Mile” during a Goodyear Tire Test Tuesday.

LOUDON, N.H. – With only five races remaining in NASCAR’s 2025 regular season, drivers and fans will soon turn their attention to New Hampshire Motor Speedway (NHMS) for New England’s only NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) Playoffs race on Sept. 21. Christopher Bell, Joey Logano and Ross Chastain visited “The Magic Mile” on Tuesday for a Goodyear Tire Test.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING

Christopher Bell | Driver of the No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota

“Well, I definitely like it being in the playoffs, for sure. … I love this racetrack. It’s statistically, I think my best track on the schedule, and with it being later on in the year, putting it in the playoffs is really, I mean, it’s good for me, so I’m all for it. Let’s crown a champion here.”

Joey Logano | Driver of the No. 22 Team Penske Ford

“Coming here for a race weekend, I love it. I always say I feel like Dale Jr. when I come up here ’cause it’s about the only track I don’t get booed, and it’s freaking awesome. It is cool to see a lot of red and yellow out there. You know, you look at some of these photos of a packed house. It’s great to see. I watched my first race here back in ‘95 or ‘96 as a child, and this is where I fell in love with the sport. It was right here. So, as you can imagine, there’s a lot of really special memories for me here, whether it’s sitting in the grandstand, starting my first race, winning my first race, it’s all happened here in Loudon. I don’t think there’s any more core memories of at least motorsports to me than what is here in New Hampshire. I absolutely love coming up here for all those reasons. I look forward to coming back. Wish we had two races up here. Can we bring that back? You working on that? Keep working. Can I help?”

Ross Chastain | Driver of the No. 1 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet

“Yeah, it’s big, I mean, I got to my crew chief now, Phil Surgen, for the 2021 Cup Series season and told him ahead of the season that New Hampshire was my worst track. I’d had one of my biggest crashes to date here with a popped right front tire a long time ago in the Xfinity Series, and I just didn’t feel ever confident with any of the cars. I drove here, and he said he was gonna fix that, and he did, and we’ve had top-10-esque runs a couple times, but never in contention for a win, so was fortunate and glad to draw this test outta the Chevy camp for our team and get to have two days to just rip laps and them work on the car and them work on me because they can get as much out of me as they can the car. So big priority on the car and me for these two days as well as just capturing all the data for all the engineers to figure out.”

New England’s only NASCAR Playoffs weekend is Sept. 19-21 at NHMS. On-track action kicks off Friday with NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour (NWMT) practice sessions, NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) practice and qualifying plus SIG SAUER Academy Dirt Duels at The Flat Track. The action continues on Doubleheader Saturday with NWMT qualifying, the Mohegan Sun 100 NWMT race, the Team EJP 175 NCTS playoff race and NCS practice and qualifying. The on-track action culminates Sunday with the NCS taking on “The Magic Mile” to kick off the Round of 12. Don’t miss all of the exciting off-track action including “The Magic Mile” Happy Hour Show, Trackside Live, The Groove fan hangout, concerts from Draw the Line and Being Petty: The Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers Experience, Family Movie Night featuring “Captain America: Brave New World,” driver appearances, a variety of live performances, fireworks and much more.

For a full NASCAR weekend schedule, visit NHMS.com/Events/NASCAR-Cup-Series/Schedule/.

Tickets:

For tickets and camping for New England’s only NASCAR Playoffs weekend, featuring the NCS and Team EJP 175 NCTS playoff races, Mohegan Sun 100 NWMT race and SIG SAUER Academy Dirt Duels, fans should visit NHMS.com or call 833-4LOUDON. Tickets for kids 12 and under are just $10 on Sunday, free on Doubleheader Saturday and start at $10 on Friday.

Follow Us:

Keep track of all of New Hampshire Motor Speedway’s events by following on Facebook (@NHMotorSpeedway), X (@NHMS) and Instagram (@NHMS). Keep up with all the latest information on the speedway website (NHMS.com) and mobile app.

Spire Motorsports TSport 200 Race Advance

By
Official Release
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  • In five NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts at Indianapolis Raceway Park (IRP), Spire Motorsports has earned one top-five and three top-10 finishes. Layne Riggs claimed a team-best third-place finish in 2023 event. The Mooresville, N.C., organization fields the Nos. 07, 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolets full time in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The Nos. 07 and 7 entries will see a rotating roster of all-star caliber drivers throughout the season, while Rajah Caruth and Sunoco Rookie of the Year contender Andres Perez de Lara will pilot the Nos. 71 and 77, respectively, for the full slate of races.
  • The TSport 200 will be televised live on FS1 Friday, July 25 beginning at 8 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). The 16th of 25 races on the 2025 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series calendar will be broadcast live on the NASCAR Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Channel 90.

Brenden Queen – Driver, No. 07 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Brenden “Butterbean” Queen will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 07 Best Repair Company Chevrolet Silverado in Friday’s TSport 200 at Indianapolis Raceway Park.
  • Queen competes full time in the ARCA Menards Series behind the wheel of the No. 28 Chevrolet SS for Pinnacle Racing Group. The current ARCA Menards Series points leader will pull double duty on Friday, competing in the LiUNA 150 presented by Dutch Boy prior to the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race.
  • The short track ace will compete in his fourth CRAFTSMAN Truck Series event and first with Spire Motorsports. In his series debut at North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway last May, “Butterbean” secured a career-best fourth-place finish.
  • The leader of the ARCA Bounty Rookie Challenge has captured three General Tire pole awards, four wins, eight top fives and a 5.5 average finish, all of which lead the series. He tallied victories at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway, Phoenix Raceway, Kansas Speedway and Dover (Del.) Motor Speedway.
  • Last Friday at Dover, the Chesapeake, Va., native started on the pole and went wire-to-wire, leading all 150 laps en route to the dominant 7.130-second win, his fourth of the season. To add to his impressive day, Queen managed a broken track bar during the second segment of the race until the team could make repairs during the scheduled Lap-100 race break. After the 10th of 20 races on the ARCA calendar, he extended his series points lead to 26 points over his next closest competitor.
  • The 2024 CARS Late Model Stock Car Tour champion owns seven victories and 25 top 10s in 36 series starts. His tour championship followed three consecutive Langley (Va.) Speedway track championships between 2020-2022.
  • The decorated Late Model Stock Car driver has collected crowns in some of the biggest races for the short track division including the Hamptons Heat 200 at Langley (2020, 2023-24), the South Carolina 400 at Florence (S.C.) Motor Speedway (2022), the Battle of the Stars at New River All-American Speedway (2023) and the Thanksgiving All-Star Classic at Southern National Motorsports Park (2023).
  • Best Repair Company, Inc. is a locally-owned full-service mechanical and electrical repairs & maintenance service provider in Norfolk, Va. With over 60 years of experience, Best Repair Company has proven to be a reputable and highly competent commercial, industrial, and marine service provider. As a leading motor repair shop, its highly qualified experts specialize in a broad spectrum of services including electric motor repair alongside industrial pump, shaft, and centrifugal blower repairs.
  • Queen will race Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-058 this weekend. The truck has made 28 starts, reaching Victory Lane four times with Kyle Busch (Charlotte, May 2019) and John Hunter Nemechek (Las Vegas, Feb. 2021; Richmond, April 2021; Charlotte, May 2021) in the cockpit.

Brenden Queen Quotes
How are you approaching your fourth CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start differently than your first starts last year?
“It’s obviously a different opportunity being with Spire Motorsports, a different team than I raced the other three with. I feel a lot more confidence and experienced at this level from racing with the ARCA Menards Series all year. I’m going to different tracks and learning how different the schedules are at this level compared to late model racing. Being a member of the Josh Wise program through GM and Chevrolet has helped me get all the extra help for my pre-race preparation. I’m more prepared when I get to the track than I’ve ever been. I will be ready to attack as soon as practice starts Friday afternoon.”

Your short track resume is one that speaks for itself. How does racing the Late Model Stock Car compare to the No. 07 Chevrolet compare?
“I think they drive differently, mainly with the trucks having a long bed and more downforce. You also have live pit stops and have to maximize and maintain pit road speed, which is all new to me. But, I definitely lean on my late model career going to different short tracks and adapting. I enjoy low grip racing. To pass at IRP, you have to move around. Someone is going to be running up by the wall and you’re going to have to find a way around them. For me, just having the experience over the last 10 or 11 years of my life is going to give me ideas of what to try while I’m out there. I know I won’t be afraid to move around and search for speed. It definitely doesn’t hurt being a late model guy.”

Atop the No. 07 Box – Crew Chief Allen Hart

  • Allen Hart calls the shots for the No. 07 team, an entry that has seen a rotating roster of drivers throughout the 2025 campaign.
  • As a race engineer at JR Motorsports, the Midland, Mich., native participated in Justin Allgaier’s 2018 victory at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. After starting second, Allgaier led 41-of-100 laps and held off Tyler Reddick, Ryan Blaney and Chase Elliott in the closing laps to secure the win.
  • Last time out at Lime Rock Park, road racing specialist Thomas Annunziata survived a physical late-race restart to finish 15th in his CRAFTSMAN Truck Series debut.
  • The 43-year-old earned his first career win in a crew chief role in March’s Baptist Health 200 at Homestead-Miami Speedway. After a spin midway through the Final Stage, Kyle Larson made an impressive run through the field over the event’s final 40 circuits, chasing down the leaders with two laps remaining to make the winning move.
  • Through 15 races, No. 07 team sits 10th in the division’s owner’s championship point standings on the strength of one win, four top-five and five top-10 finishes.

Corey Day – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Corey Day will race Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet Silverado in Friday’s TSport 200 at Indianapolis Raceway Park.
  • The 200-lap event will mark the Clovis, Calif., native’s 11th CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start and seventh with Spire Motorsports. Last time out with the No. 7 team, Day secured a series-best fifth-place finish at Nashville (Tenn.) Superspeedway in May. In his season debut at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, he secured his first-career Kennametal Pole Award.
  • Day earned his first USAC NOS Energy Drink National Midget Series win at Circle City Raceway, located in Indianapolis at the Marion County Fairgrounds, during Indiana Midget Week in 2021. He became the youngest winner in the illustrious 66-year history of the United States Auto Club.
  • The Hendrick Motorsports development driver has started four races behind the wheel of the team’s No. 17 Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. His series-best 11th-place finish also came in May at Nashville Superspeedway.
  • The 20-year-old will round out his eight-race CRAFTSMAN Truck Series slate with Spire Motorsports at Darlington (S.C.) Raceway next month and will contest his fourth and final ARCA Menards Series race aboard the No. 77 Chevrolet in September at Kansas Speedway.
  • In three ARCA Menards Series appearances with Spire Motorsports in 2025, including the national tour and ARCA Series West competition, Day buoyed a disappointing start to the season at Daytona (Fla.) International Raceway by earning top-10 results at Phoenix Raceway (10th) and Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway (seventh).
  • HENDRICKCARS.COM is the online home for everything Hendrick Automotive Group. Visitors can shop more than 30,000 new or pre-owned vehicles, locate centers for service and collision repair, receive a value to sell or trade their car, chat online with customer service, discover career opportunities, learn more about vehicle protection programs, and explore how the company gives back to the community.
  • Day will race Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-062 Friday night. The truck has collected seven top-five finishes in 23 appearances, most recently with Sammy Smith at North Wilkesboro last May.

Corey Day Quote
What are your thoughts heading into your penultimate race of the year in the No. 7?
“I’m looking forward to getting back behind the wheel of the HENDRICKCARS.COM Spire Motorsports Chevy Silverado this weekend at IRP. Brian (Pattie) and the team always builds a great truck, and I hope we can have a solid showing and I can continue to learn in the process.”

Atop the No. 7 Box – Crew Chief Brian Pattie

  • Brian Pattie stands atop of the No. 7 pit box, an entry that has seen an abundance of all-star caliber drivers behind the wheel throughout the 2025 season.
  • Pattie has called a pair of CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races at IRP, highlighted by a sixth-place finish last season with Sammy Smith at the wheel.
  • In NASCAR Xfinity Series competition, the Zephyrhills, Fla., native helped Reed Sorenson to third- and second-place results in 2005 and 2006, respectively, during his time at Chip Ganassi Racing.
  • Last time out at Lime Rock Park, the No. 7 team and road racing phenom Jordan Taylor qualified second and spent a majority of the day battling inside the top five. Unfortunately, contact initiated by another competitor on a restart with five laps remaining sent Taylor spinning into the Turn 1 grass, leaving him 20th in the final rundown.
  • Through 15 races, the No. 7 team sits seventh in the division’s owner points on the strength of two wins, five top-five and six top-10 finishes.
  • In May, the team and driver Carson Hocevar claimed victory in the Heart of Health Care 200 at Kansas Speedway. Hocevar led 75 of the event’s 134 laps and survived last-lap contact with a competitor en route to his fifth victory in the series and first aboard a Spire Motorsports-prepared Silverado.
  • The No. 7 team defended its 2024 victory in the Fr8 208 at Atlanta Motor Speedway in February with Kyle Busch behind the wheel. The Las Vegas driver spent all 135 laps in the top 15 while leading a race-high 80 laps and recording a field-leading average running position (3.2) and driver rating (124.6).
  • The 24-year industry veteran spent 14 seasons in NASCAR’s premier division. As a crew chief, he has amassed six wins in Cup Series competition, 11 in the Xfinity Series and seven in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. He stands as one of 11 crew chiefs to win races across all three of NASCAR’s national touring series.

Rajah Caruth – Driver, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Rajah Caruth will be behind the wheel of Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet Silverado in Friday night’s TSport 200 at Indianapolis Raceway Park.
  • The third-year CRAFTSMAN Truck Series driver has top-10 finishes in both prior starts in the series at the 0.68-mile short track. He started fourth and finished seventh in 2023, and earned his second-career pole last season before crossing the line in eighth.
  • The NASCAR Driver Development Program alumus has seen plenty of success on short tracks, collecting Late Model wins at Greenville-Pickens (S.C.) Speedway and Hickory (N.C.) Motor Speedway early in his racing career.
  • Last time out at Lime Rock Park, Caruth and Co., spent the entire day inside the top 10 until contact from behind on a late-race restart sent him off track. He was credited with a 21st-place finish.
  • Caruth made his return to the NASCAR Xfinity Series last weekend, driving the No. 32 Events DC Chevrolet for Jordan Anderson Racing. He qualified 16th and was credited with a 22nd-place result after rain ended the event 66 laps short of the scheduled distance.
  • In May’s Rackley Roofing 200 at Nashville Superspeedway, Caruth held off hard-charging Corey Heim and Layne Riggs to earn his second-career CRAFTSMAN Truck Series victory. After hitting pit road for the final time in the third position, the No. 71 pit crew nailed the stop, putting the driver out front to start the Final Stage. He led the final 51 laps en route to the win.
  • Through the first 15 events on the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series calendar, the Washington, D.C., native has earned one win, three top fives and eight top 10s, while pacing the field for 189 circuits – tripling his 57 laps led entering the year.
  • HENDRICKCARS.COM is the online home for everything Hendrick Automotive Group. Visitors can shop more than 30,000 new or pre-owned vehicles, locate centers for service and collision repair, receive a value to sell or trade their car, chat online with customer service, discover career opportunities, learn more about vehicle protection programs, and explore how the company gives back to the community.
  • The 2024 season marked a career year for Caruth, tallying one win, a pair of Cometic Gasket Pole Awards and five top-five finishes, all of which were the first of his young career. The 12 top-10 finishes on the season tripled Caruth’s total of four in 2023, while his average starting position of 10.7 was four positions higher than 2023 and his 11.6 average finish was an impressive seven positions higher.
  • With his first career CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win at Las Vegas Motor Speedway last season, Caruth became the third African-American driver to win a NASCAR National Touring Series race, joining 2015 NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee Wendell Scott and current Cup Series star Bubba Wallace.
  • Caruth and the No. 71 team qualified for the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series playoffs in 2024, the first such appearance for the recent Winston-Salem (N.C.) State University graduate. Despite reaching the Round of 8, mechanical issues stalled his championship bid in the season’s penultimate event at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway.
  • The blue and white HENDRICKCARS.COM colors will wrap Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-070. In 21 starts, the truck visited Victory Lane three times with Chandler Smith (Phoenix, Nov. 2021; Las Vegas, March 2022; Richmond, Aug. 2022), paced the field for 318 circuits and recorded an 8.7 average finish. Nick Sanchez piloted the chassis to a fourth-place result last November at Phoenix Raceway.

Rajah Caruth Quotes
You had the opportunity to run the Xfinity Series race last weekend in Dover. What did you learn from that experience that will transition to the truck and your hunt for the championship?
“It is definitely good to fill in one of our off weeks and get back behind the wheel of something. We are concluding a three-week break, and a lot of guys haven’t driven anything since Lime Rock. I was fortunate enough to be part of the BEV Showcase on behalf of Chevrolet at the Chicago Street Course a couple weeks ago, and last week I got the opportunity to run the Xfinity race at Dover. Filling that gap is huge to stay fresh and ready to go when we hit the track for practice on Friday. The experience of running the Xfinity race was good to get reps of the longer races in that series and compete against a different group of guys than I am used to. Both were fun experiences, but I am ready to get back in my HENDRICKCARS.COM Silverado and continue to battle for the championship with my No. 71 team.”

Coming off a pole position and a top-10 showing last year, how are you feeling heading into IRP this time around?
“I definitely have some confidence, or a little swagger walking back in there, but I definitely want to have a better race than last year. Yes, we got the pole, but we spent a lot of the night in the back part of the top 10. Not as good as I want to be. I am confident in the work the team and I have been putting in to improve, so I think we can go turn some heads, run up front and have a shot to get win number two of the year.”

Atop the No. 71 Box – Crew Chief Kevin “Bono” Manion

  • Veteran crew chief Kevin “Bono” Manion has called two CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races at IRP, both of which produced top-10 results. He and the then part-time No. 7 Spire Motorsports team finished third in 2023 with driver Layne Riggs.
  • The Boylston, Mass., native reached Victory Lane at the 0.68-mile progressively banked oval with Martin Truex, Jr., in NASCAR Xfinity Series competition. He led 94 laps en route to the team’s sixth and final victory in their second-consecutive championship season.
  • Manion is familiar with success in the “Circle City.” He was atop the pit box for Jamie McMurray’s 2010 Brickyard 400 triumph at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, located just eight miles from IRP. After winning the season-opening Daytona 500, McMurray secured his second crown jewel of the season.
  • Manion, a 31-year veteran of the sport, founded Spire Motorsports’ CRAFTSMAN Truck Series program alongside industry veteran Mike Greci in 2022. The team claimed their first victory in their second outing with William Byron behind the wheel at Martinsville Speedway.
  • The 53-year-old has racked up six Cup Series victories – including the 2010 Daytona 500 – 17 NASCAR Xfinity Series triumphs and 12 CRAFTSMAN Truck series wins. Manion is also one of 11 crew chiefs to have called wins across all three of NASCAR’s national touring series.
  • In 2023, Manion became one of few to call a race in all three of NASCAR’s national series in a single season, all of which came under the Spire Motorsports umbrella. He led the part-time effort on the No. 7 Silverado in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, helped in limited starts for Carson Hocevar in the Xfinity Series and took the reigns during the second half of the Cup Series season for Ty Dillon and the No. 77 team.

Andres Perez de Lara – Driver, No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Andres Perez de Lara will pilot the No. 77 Telcel Chevrolet Silverado for Spire Motorsports in the TSport 200 at Indianapolis Raceway Park.
  • Last time out at Lime Rock Park, Perez de Lara and team battled an ill-handling race truck throughout the majority of the event. The No. 77 Telcel Silverado ended up crossing the finish line in the 17th position after the 100 lapper.
  • The Mexico City native will make his third start at the Brownsburg short track this weekend. In two ARCA Menards Series starts, Perez de Lara tallied one top five and two top 10s. In last year’s Circle City 200, he ran inside the top five for the entire event and finished second.
  • The Sunoco Rookie of the Year contender has made two short-track starts in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series this season, earning a career-best seventh-place finish at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway.
  • Perez de Lara made 12 short track starts across his two full seasons in the ARCA Menards Series. He earned nine top fives, including a pair of runner-up finishes last season at IRP and Salem (Ind.) Speedway, while maintaining an average finish of 4.5.
  • The 2023 NASCAR Mexico Series Rookie of the Year saw success on short tracks during his time in Mexico’s premier stock car series. His lone win in the series came at Ovalo Aguascalientes, a 0.875-mile oval. In 13 appearances on short tracks in the series, Perez de Lara tallied four top fives and nine top 10s.
  • Telcel is Mexico’s leading telecommunications company, providing nationwide coverage, cutting-edge mobile connectivity, and high-speed internet services to millions of users. With over 30 years of experience, Telcel continues to innovate in digital communication, offering solutions that keep people connected anytime, anywhere.
  • Beyond technology, Telcel is committed to supporting excellence in sports, particularly in motorsports. As a proud and long-time sponsor of Perez de Lara, Telcel fuels the passion for speed, precision and performance, driving success both on and off the track. Telcel will be a season-long partner with Perez de Lara and the No. 77 team.
  • The 20-year-old has made 17 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts, 16 of which were behind the wheel of a Spire Motorsports Chevy Silverado. He earned his first-career top 10 in his CRAFTSMAN Truck Series debut last June at World Wide Technology Raceway via a ninth-place result. His career-best seventh-place finish at Martinsville Speedway in March marked his second top 10 in the division.
  • The 2024 ARCA Menards Series champion juggled his duties while also competing full time in the NASCAR Mexico Series. In 2023, he earned the Rookie of the Year award while finishing fourth in the division’s championship point standings and reaching the series’ version of the NASCAR playoffs.
  • Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-056 will be driven by Perez de Lara Friday night. The truck has two wins in its 23 starts, visiting Victory Lane with John Hunter Nemechek at Pocono (June, 2021) and Kansas (September, 2022). He drove the chassis to a career-best seventh-place finish at Martinsville in March.

Andres Perez de Lara Quotes
You notched your career-best ARCA Menards Series finish at IRP last year, what about the track fits your driving style?
“IRP is a technical track, that can be very challenging. I feel like with my two starts at the track in ARCA I have been able to get a grip on how to make speed with the multiple lines that are available. It took me a while to get comfortable last year, but I feel like I will be up to speed quickly this time around. You have to find the right balance with running along the wall and I felt like I found it last year. It is a really fun track once you figure everything out.”

What is your gameplan heading into your first truck start at IRP?
“Going into this weekend, I’ll have to be patient because short-track racing can always be chaotic. If I can take care of the truck for the majority of the race, we will have a chance to bring home a good result. All of our preparation has went well in the shop and in the simulator. Spire has always ran good at IRP and this weekend has the potential to be a good one for the No. 77 team.”

Atop the No. 77 Box – Crew Chief Chad Walter

  • Walter has called two CRAFTSMAN Truck Series at Indianapolis Raceway Park, both with Rajah Caruth at the controls. The Caruth and Walter duo paired up for two top 10s in addition to the Kennametal Pole Award prior to last year’s TSport 200.
  • The Cornell University graduate played a part in Ron Hornady, Jr.’s 2000 NASCAR Xfinity Series victory at IRP. Walter was a shop engineer at Dale Earnhardt, Inc. Hornaday led the final 49 laps en route to his second-career victory.
  • Between NASCAR’s Xfinity Series and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, the Albion, N.Y. native has racked up six wins, 52 top fives and 131 top 10s.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway on July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado to its inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win on April 7, 2022, at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent win came on May 30, 2025, when Rajah Caruth took the checkered flag in the Rackley Roofing 200 at Nashville Superspeedway.

In 2025, Spire Motorsports campaigns the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolets in the NASCAR Cup Series. The team also fields the Nos. 07, 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and the No. 77 Chevrolet in the ARCA Menards Series in select events.

Stewart Friesen to make 200th Truck career start at Lucas Oil IRP

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by John Knittel for SpeedwayMedia.com.

In his 10th season with at least one start in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series division, Stewart Friesen is scheduled to achieve a milestone start. By taking the green flag in this weekend’s event at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, the driver of the No. 52 Halmar Friesen Racing (HFR) Toyota Tundra TRD Pro entry will make his 200th career start in the Truck division. 

A native of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada, Friesen is an accomplished Super DIRTcar Series competitor. He is also a four-time champion of the Race of Champions Dirt Modified Tour division. He made his inaugural appearance in the Truck Series at Eldora Speedway in July 2016.

Driving the No. 16 Chevrolet Silverado for Halmar Racing, his co-owned organization, Friesen started 12th and finished 28th in his NASCAR debut. And, he did so after being involved in an early multi-truck wreck. He competed in five additional Truck events throughout the 2016 campaign. His season-best 13th-place result came at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in September. 

The following season, Friesen and HFR initially entered the Truck Series as a full-time team. Their intention was to compete for both the series’ Playoffs and championship battle. Unfortunately, he finished no higher than 19th during the first seven scheduled events. Then, the duo did not compete for the following two events.

They returned to action at Kentucky Speedway in July, where Freisen finished 12th. During the following event at Eldora, Friesen qualified on the pole and led a race-high 93 of 150 laps. He finished a career-best second place. He competed in 10 of the final 12 events, recorded four top-10 results, and finished 14th in the final standings. 

Friesen’s 2018 Truck Series season commenced with the driver finishing 27th at Daytona International Speedwa after he was involved in a late multi-truck wreck. He rallied by posting three runner-up results, seven top-five results and 11 top-10 results through the remaining 15 regular-season events. The consistent results generated by Friesen and the No. 52 HFR Chevrolet team were enough for the duo to qualify for the 2018 Truck Playoffs.

This marked Friesen’s first NASCAR postseason entrance for the title. His title hopes, however, came to an early end. He was eliminated from Playoff contention following the Round of 8 after finishing seventh, 17th and sixth throughout the round.

He finished no lower than 11th for the final four scheduled events. Friesen capped off the 2018 campaign in seventh place in the final standings. By then, he quadrupled his accumulated top-five results in a season from two to nine. He also tripled his top-10 results from five to 16 and led 85 more laps than in his previous season. Plus, he boosted his average-finishing result from 17.2 to 9.1. 

The 2019 Truck Series season was a breakout year for Friesen. He commenced the year by finishing 10th at Daytona. Friesen then logged in three consecutive top-five results over his next five starts. At Kansas Speedway in May, he led a race-high 87 of 167 laps and was leading with two laps remaining. However, he ran out of fuel due to an earlier pit road miscommunication and drifted back to 15th place.

Eight races and five additional top-five finishes later, Friesen achieved his first elusive NASCAR Truck Series career victory at Eldora after leading 57 of 150 laps and persevering through a two-lap restart. The Eldora victory all but guaranteed Friesen and his No. 52 HFR team a spot in the 2019 Truck Series Playoffs.

Friesen commenced the 2019 Playoffs by finishing no lower than 19th during the Round of 8 as he transferred to the Round of 6. Then, after finishing fifth and sixth at Talladega Superspeedway and Martinsville Speedway, respectively, in October, he notched his second career win at Phoenix Raceway in November. Friesen’s victory occurred after he rallied from serving an opening lap penalty for jumping the restart prior to pole-sitter Austin Hill touching the start/finish line as the control competitor.

Friesen’s victory was not only his first on a paved oval event in NASCAR competition. It also guaranteed him a Championship 4 berth for the season-finale championship event at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Friesen, however, would finish in 11th place on the track at Homestead and in fourth place in the final standings. The series’ champion, Matt Crafton, along with title rivals Ross Chastain and Brett Moffitt, claimed the top three spots.

Overall, Friesen capped off the 2019 season with career-high season stats. He achieved 12 top fives and 16 top 10s. He led 256 laps and had an average finish of 8.5 to go along with his first two career victories. 

The 2020 Truck Series season was a difficult campaign for Friesen, who began the year with high expectations. He formed a technical alliance with Kyle Busch Motorsports and changed manufacturers from Chevrolet to Toyota. He began his on-track action by finishing 21st at Daytona. But the driver of the No. 52 HFR entry would only register nine top-10 results throughout the 16-race regular-season stretch.

Despite finishing fourth at Texas Motor Speedway in July and fifth at World Wide Technology Raceway within the stretch, Friesen was unable to race his way back into the Playoffs. He proceeded to compete in six of the final seven scheduled events, notching three additional top-10 results and another season-best fourth-place result at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in September.

Friesen settled in 15th place in the final standings. During the season, he logged in only three top-fives, 12 top-10s, and led 31 laps. His average finishing result was 15.7. 

Friesen rallied in 2021. He made his third career appearance in the Truck Series Playoffs and he did so amid a roller-coaster regular-season stretch. Friesen only notched three top-five results and a total of four top-10 results. He transferred from the Round of 10 to 8 on the strength of three consecutive top-four results.

Then, he logged in respective finishes of sixth, 22nd and 17th throughout the Round of 8. He then found himself in a “must-win” situation at Martinsville Speedway. Unfortunately, Friesen spun on the final lap while contending for the victory. As a result, his title hopes evaporated. With a season-best runner-up result at Phoenix, he claimed sixth place in the final standings. By then, he had surpassed 100 career starts in the Truck Series division. 

During the 2022 Truck Series season, Friesen finished no worse than 16th. He also tallied a total of three top-10 results through the first eight scheduled events. Then at Texas in May, he outdueled Christian Eckes. During an overtime shootout, he executed a bold pass beneath Eckes through the first two turns. By doing so, he snapped a 54-race winless drought and notched his third career victory in the Truck Series division.

With a guaranteed spot in the Playoffs all but locked up with the Texas victory, Friesen finished in the top 10 five times through the final seven events. He maintained his title hopes and transferred to the Round of 8 despite a single top-five result during the Round of 8.

Despite finishing seventh, 20th and third, respectively, throughout the Round of 8, Friesen fell short of transferring to the Championship Round by a single point. Nonetheless, he finished fifth during the finale at Phoenix and sixth in the final standings for a second consecutive year. By then, he had accumulated two additional top-five results and four extra top-10 results. Friesen also led 110 extra laps, boosting his average-finishing result from 14.5 to 9.9. 

During the previous two Truck seasons (2023-24), Friesen finished in the top five a total of six times. And, he generated 14 results in the top-10 mark. He also led a combined 16 laps, recorded average-finishing results within the top-15 and 17 mark and settled in 12th place in the final standings while missing the Playoffs. During the two-year stretch, he finished as high as second at Darlington Raceway in May 2023 and at Charlotte Motor Speedway in May 2024. 

This season, Friesen began the 2025 campaign by notching four top-10 results through 12 scheduled events. Mired within the results was a runner-up result at Atlanta Motor Speedway in February after he was edged by Kyle Busch by 0.017 seconds for the victory. Then at Michigan International Speedway, Friesen capitalized on three overtime restarts to snap a three-year winless drought. He notched a thrilling victory that guaranteed him a Playoff berth for the fifth time in his career. 

Through 199 previous Truck starts, Friesen has achieved four victories, four poles, 51 top-five results, 91 top-10 results, 766 laps led and an average-finishing result of 13.8. He is currently in 11th place in the 2025 driver’s standings as he continues his pursuit of his first NASCAR championship.

Stewart Friesen is scheduled to make his 200th Craftsman Truck Series career start at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park for the TSport 200. The event is scheduled to occur this upcoming Friday, July 25, and air at 8 p.m. ET on FS1. 

KENNINGTON MAKING FIRST EVER STOP AT CALABOGIE

By
Official Release
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July 23, 2025. DJ Kennington and the #17 Castrol EDGE Dodge team are ready to take on new territory as the NASCAR Canada Series heads to Calabogie Motorsports Park for the first time in series history. The 50-lap race around the 1.742-mile (2.803 km) road course near Ottawa, Ontario marks round five of the 2025 season and promises to be a thrilling challenge for competitors and fans alike.

Kennington brings a wealth of experience and success to the inaugural Calabogie event. The two-time series champion has previously scored victories at Canada’s most iconic road racing venues, including Canadian Tire Motorsport Park and the Grand Prix of Trois-Rivières.

That title fight is intensifying as the season nears its midpoint. Kennington currently sits third in the overall standings, just three points out of the top spot. With valuable championship points on the line and the unpredictability of a first-time track visit, the weekend at Calabogie could play a pivotal role in shaping the 2025 championship picture.

Practice and qualifying will take place Saturday and the race goes Sunday at Calabogie Motorsports Park for what is sure to be a competitive and historic event in the NASCAR Canada Series.

Here’s what you need to know.

Race Event Preview
Sunday July 27th, Green Flag 2:10PM ET
NASCAR 150 Clash of the Titans
Races five of 12 in 2025
This will be the firstt NASCAR Canada Series race at Calabogie Motorsports Park

The Track: 1.742 miles/2.803km

Best finish: 1st in 2010, 2012 and 2022

Career Victories: 25

Most Recent Win: Riverside International Speedway, 2025

DJ Quote: “We’re excited to race at Calabogie for the first time, it’s always fun learning a new track, and it really puts the emphasis on the team to be prepared and learn quickly. From what I understand you’ll really have to look after your car and make sure you’ve got something left for the end of the race. That’s always our approach so we have high hopes for the Castrol Dodge this weekend.

Television Coverage
The NASCAR 150 Clash of the Titans will air on REV TV and the REV TV YouTube Channel, date and time TBD.

Race fans can follow DJ Kennington and the #17 Castrol EDGE Dodge team on their official social media platforms:

Twitter www.twitter.com/@djkracing
Instagram www.instagram.com/djkracing
Website www.djkracing.ca
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/DJKenningtonRacing/

Crossover Alert: Motorsport Enthusiasts Follow These Top Sports Events Too

By
SM
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The high-octane world of motorsport does not exist in isolation. Although racing fans might live for the roar of engines and the smell of burning rubber, their love for competition, strategy, and adrenaline spills over into other areas like exploring the top tennis tournaments for betting and other sporting events. Many motorsport enthusiasts are equally drawn to top-tier sporting tournaments across different disciplines. 

Whether it is the tactical finesse of tennis or the relentless physicality of rugby, these fans are attracted to excellence, drama, and moments that define greatness. Hereon, we’ll explore some top sports events that attract the imagination of motorsport enthusiasts, helping you see why these crossovers make perfect sense.

The Olympics 

For motorsport fans, the Olympics hold a powerful allure. They are the peak of athletic achievement, much like the Formula 1 World Championship or 24 Hours of Le Mans victory. Both domains celebrate skill, discipline, and pushing human limits. Motorsport fans love it because of their precision and perfection as portrayed in gymnastics, track cycling, and swimming. 

The availability of diverse disciplines is another factor. Like motorsport entails everything from rally to MotorGP, the Olympics feature a wide range of sporting excellence. Lastly, it is a source of national pride because these fans who cheer for national drivers or teams find similar emotional highs in Olympic medal hunts.

The FIFA World Cup 

Football (soccer) and motorsport are more closely acquainted than many assume. Many F1 drivers like Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, and Fernando Alonso are bona fide football fans. Teams like McLauren and Mercedes have even partnered with football clubs for cross-promotions.

Motorsport fans love it for various reasons. First is the team strategy parallels. Motorsport, particularly Formula 1 and endurance racing, is embedded in team-based tactics. Likewise, football’s strategic formations and substitutions resonate.

Second is the global spectacle. Like F1 races in Monaco, Singapore or Silverstone, the World Cup is a celebration of cultures, nations and high drama. Third is the passionate rivalries. Motorsport flourishes on intense rivalries (Senna vs. Prost, Hamilton vs. Verstappen) just as the World Cup offers similar features (England vs. Germany, Brazil vs. Argentina).

The Tour de France 

Although one entails horsepower and the other leg power, motorsport and the Tour de France share more similarities than they appear. The combo of human endurance, machine reliance (bicycles), and strategic execution makes the cycling race an alluring watch. Furthermore, motorsport fans love this for various reasons.

The endurance fascination reigns supreme. Fans of the 24 hours of Le Mans or Dakar Rally admire the physical and mental fortitude required over days of intense competition. The tactical teamwork involved is another contributing factor. Just like pit crew coordinator and team orders in F1, cycling teams use pace strategies and protective formations. Lastly, while tricky circuits test a driver’s mettle, mountain climbs in the Tour test cyclists to their very core.

The NFL Super Bowl

Motorsport fans are intrigued by the technical side of racing. Stuff like telemetry data, tire choices, and aero adjustments add to the fun. They even offer a similar blend of brawn and brain, just like you’ll find in American football, particularly during the Super Bowl.

Fans love the Super Bowl because of its playbook complexity. NFL strategies can be as complex as fuel-saving engine modes or overcut/undercut pit strategies. Some enjoy the spectacle and storytelling involved as well. The Super Bowl, like Monaco GP or the Indy 500, is as much about entertainment around it and as juicy as the event itself.

Star power is another reason for interest. Motorsport stars like Jenson Button and even NASCAR legends often attend the Super Bowl. This feeds into the crossover fanbase.

Wimbledon 

Tennis might seem a world away from motorsport, but it is a personal and precision-based sport. One where timing, control, and mental strength dictate success. Wimbledon, with its rich traditions and elite status, mainly attracts motorsport fans who appreciate class and control.

So, fans love it because of the one-on-one rivalries. Like F1 excels in Hamilton vs. Roseberg, tennis delivers epic one-on-one showdowns like Federer vs. Nadal. The speed and precision involved also factor in this cross-over interest. The reflexes, anticipation, and margin for error in tennis match the split-second decisions racers make at 300km/h.

The access to elite performance equally contributes. Motorsport fans are attracted to athletes who perform at the highest level under immense pressure. This is a shared trait in top-tier tennis.

Why the Connection Matters 

Motorsport fans are not just thrill-seekers. They are students of competition, lovers of high stakes and seekers of excellence. Their crossover interests into these top sporting events are fuelled by shared values like precision and endurance, media accessibility, as well as cultural evolution. The more integrated and story-driven global sports become, the more crossover appeal they develop.

So, the next time you’re at a Grand Prix and spot someone wearing a Lakers jersey or talking about cricket stats, don’t be surprised. That’s the beauty of sports. Always intersecting, evolving, and uniting people who live for the thrill.

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