When it comes to choosing a family-friendly vehicle, comfort, safety, and versatility are top priorities. Honda has long been recognized for producing reliable SUVs that cater to families’ diverse needs, with the CR-V and Pilot standing out as two exceptional options. Families looking for spacious interiors, advanced safety features, and practical cargo solutions will find both models appealing. For those exploring New Honda models for sale in Christiansburg, understanding how these vehicles accommodate car seats, provide ample cargo space, and perform in safety ratings is essential. This article breaks down the key features of the Honda CR-V and Pilot, highlighting why they are ideal for family transportation.
Honda CR-V: Compact Yet Family-Friendly
The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV that offers an excellent balance of efficiency, comfort, and functionality. Despite its smaller footprint compared to the Pilot, the CR-V provides a surprisingly spacious interior, making it ideal for smaller families or those seeking a versatile daily driver. Its ergonomic seating, intuitive layout, and high-quality materials contribute to a comfortable ride for both adults and children.
Car Seat Compatibility in the CR-V
Families with young children prioritize car seat compatibility, and the CR-V delivers in this regard. Equipped with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) systems in the rear seats, the CR-V allows for secure installation of infant and child car seats. The rear seats are designed with ample space to accommodate multiple car seats, making it easier for families with more than one young passenger. Wide door openings and adjustable seat anchors enhance accessibility, simplifying the process of safely securing children.
Honda CR-V Cargo Space
Despite being a compact SUV, the CR-V offers generous cargo space for family trips, groceries, and sports equipment. The rear cargo area provides sufficient room for strollers, luggage, and other essentials, with the ability to fold down rear seats for expanded storage. The flat load floor and wide rear hatch opening make loading and unloading convenient, ensuring families can maximize cargo capacity without compromising passenger comfort.
Safety Features and Ratings for the CR-V
Safety is a primary consideration for families, and the Honda CR-V excels in this area. The CR-V comes standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety and driver-assist technologies. Features include collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and road departure mitigation. These systems provide an extra layer of protection during daily commutes and long road trips. The CR-V consistently receives high safety ratings from organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), giving parents confidence in the vehicle’s ability to protect occupants.
Honda Pilot: Spacious and Family-Oriented
For larger families or those needing extra seating, the Honda Pilot is a mid-size SUV that offers three rows of seating and extensive cargo capacity. The Pilot is designed to accommodate up to eight passengers comfortably, with versatile seating configurations that allow families to balance passenger comfort with cargo storage. Its larger dimensions provide more legroom and shoulder space, making long drives more comfortable for both children and adults.
Car Seat Compatibility in the Pilot
The Honda Pilot is especially family-friendly, with multiple LATCH systems and a spacious second row that makes car seat installation straightforward. The third row also provides options for older children or additional seating, though the second row remains ideal for younger passengers requiring car seats. The wide rear doors, adjustable anchors, and easy-to-reach seat belts ensure that parents can install and secure car seats efficiently, even on busy school mornings or family outings.
Cargo Space and Versatility in the Pilot
One of the standout features of the Pilot is its impressive cargo capacity. Even with all three rows in use, there is room for daily essentials, backpacks, or groceries. Folding down the third row expands storage, and folding the second row creates a flat, expansive cargo area for larger items such as bicycles, camping gear, or luggage for family vacations. The Pilot’s clever storage solutions, including underfloor compartments and multiple cup holders, add convenience for family life.
Safety Features and Ratings for the Pilot
Safety remains a hallmark of Honda SUVs, and the Pilot is no exception. Equipped with the Honda Sensing suite, the Pilot offers advanced safety technologies like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. These features work together to reduce the likelihood of accidents and increase overall driver confidence. The Pilot consistently achieves high ratings in crash tests conducted by NHTSA and IIHS, ensuring comprehensive protection for all occupants.
Technology and Entertainment for Families
Both the CR-V and Pilot offer technology features designed to keep families entertained and connected. Touchscreen infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allow passengers to stream music, use navigation, and stay connected safely. Rear-seat entertainment options in the Pilot make long drives more enjoyable for children, while USB charging ports in both models ensure devices remain powered throughout trips.
Comfort and Climate Control
Comfortable seating and effective climate control are essential for family vehicles. The CR-V and Pilot feature multi-zone climate systems, allowing passengers in different rows to set individual temperature preferences. Ample legroom, adjustable seating, and supportive cushions contribute to a comfortable ride for all passengers, reducing fatigue on long trips and ensuring a pleasant driving experience.
Fuel Efficiency Considerations
For families concerned about fuel costs, the CR-V offers excellent fuel efficiency for a compact SUV, while the Pilot balances its larger size with competitive fuel economy for a mid-size vehicle. Both models offer hybrid or efficient engine options in select trims, helping families reduce fuel expenses and environmental impact without compromising performance or space.
Accessibility and Convenience Features
Practicality is key for family-oriented vehicles. Both the CR-V and Pilot provide wide-opening doors, power tailgates, and low step-in heights for easy access. Additional features like keyless entry, remote start, and ample storage compartments enhance everyday convenience, making these SUVs highly adaptable to busy family routines.
Choosing Between the CR-V and Pilot
Selecting between the CR-V and Pilot depends on family size, lifestyle, and storage needs. Smaller families or those prioritizing fuel efficiency may prefer the CR-V, while larger households or those requiring maximum cargo flexibility may find the Pilot better suited to their needs. Both vehicles, however, deliver strong safety ratings, car seat compatibility, and family-focused features that make either a reliable choice for modern families.
Conclusion
For families seeking a combination of comfort, safety, and practicality, the Honda CR-V and Pilot offer exceptional solutions. With thoughtful car seat compatibility, ample cargo space, advanced safety technologies, and family-oriented features, these SUVs are designed to meet the demands of daily life and long trips.
Chevrolet has long been a staple in the automotive industry, offering a diverse lineup that spans from rugged trucks and versatile SUVs to sleek sedans and electric vehicles. With innovations in technology, performance, and safety, the latest Chevrolet models cater to a wide range of drivers and lifestyles. For those exploring options, visiting a Chevrolet Dealership Christiansburg VA provides the opportunity to experience new models firsthand, take test drives, and receive guidance on features, financing, and ownership. This article highlights the newest Chevrolet models available at dealerships and what buyers can expect when exploring their options.
Chevrolet Trucks: Power and Capability
Chevrolet trucks, such as the Silverado 1500 and Silverado HD series, continue to impress with their towing, hauling, and performance capabilities. The latest models feature powerful V6 and V8 engines, fuel-efficient diesel options, and advanced towing technologies, including trailer sway control and integrated brake controllers.
In addition to raw power, Silverado trucks offer smart storage solutions, multifunction tailgates, and comfortable interiors for long drives. Visiting a dealership allows potential buyers to compare trims, engine options, and packages to determine the best fit for their work, recreation, or daily driving needs.
Chevrolet SUVs: Versatility and Comfort
Chevrolet’s SUV lineup provides versatility, comfort, and modern technology for families, commuters, and adventurers alike. Models like the Equinox, Traverse, Tahoe, and Suburban cater to different passenger capacities, cargo space requirements, and off-road capabilities.
These SUVs feature advanced infotainment systems, smartphone integration, and a host of driver-assistance technologies such as forward-collision alert, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Dealership visits allow customers to explore interior layouts, seating flexibility, and optional packages that enhance comfort and utility.
Chevrolet Sedans and Hatchbacks: Style and Efficiency
Chevrolet continues to offer sedans and hatchbacks that combine style, efficiency, and technology. Models like the Malibu and Spark provide reliable transportation with attractive design, fuel efficiency, and user-friendly infotainment systems.
These vehicles are ideal for urban commuters or those seeking affordable, practical options without sacrificing technology or safety. Test drives at a dealership help buyers experience handling, interior comfort, and the intuitive controls these models offer.
Electric and Hybrid Options: The Future of Chevrolet
Chevrolet is expanding its electric and hybrid offerings with models like the Bolt EV and Bolt EUV. These vehicles emphasize zero-emission driving, impressive range, and innovative technology, including regenerative braking and advanced driver-assistance features.
Dealerships allow customers to explore electric vehicle technology firsthand, understand charging options, and compare range capabilities. This hands-on experience is essential for buyers transitioning to electric or hybrid models to ensure the vehicle meets their daily driving needs.
Advanced Safety Features Across the Lineup
Safety is a priority in Chevrolet’s latest models. Features such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and surround-view cameras enhance driver awareness and reduce the risk of collisions.
Dealership staff can demonstrate how these systems work in real-world conditions, giving buyers confidence in the vehicle’s safety capabilities. Comparing safety features across models ensures that customers select a vehicle that fits their lifestyle and safety priorities.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Chevrolet’s latest models integrate modern infotainment and connectivity options to improve convenience, entertainment, and communication. Features like Chevrolet Infotainment 3, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, wireless charging, and Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities keep drivers and passengers connected on the go.
Exploring these systems at a dealership allows buyers to interact with touchscreens, test voice commands, and understand the usability of integrated features. This hands-on approach helps determine which vehicle best meets connectivity and entertainment needs.
Performance Packages and Customization
Chevrolet offers a variety of performance packages and customization options, particularly for trucks and sportier models like the Camaro and Corvette. These packages enhance handling, acceleration, suspension, and overall driving experience.
Dealerships provide guidance on available packages, aftermarket upgrades, and factory-installed options. This ensures that buyers can tailor their vehicle to personal preferences, whether prioritizing towing performance, off-road capability, or sporty driving dynamics.
Financing and Special Offers
Visiting a Chevrolet dealership provides access to financing options, promotions, and incentives tailored to new buyers. Dealerships offer:
Competitive loan and lease programs
Trade-in appraisals to offset purchase costs
Seasonal or manufacturer promotions to enhance affordability
Understanding financing options and potential savings allows buyers to make informed decisions and secure a vehicle that aligns with their budget and long-term ownership goals.
Maintenance and Service Support
Chevrolet dealerships also offer maintenance and service support to ensure vehicles remain in optimal condition. Routine services such as oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and fluid checks keep vehicles performing reliably.
Certified technicians use genuine Chevrolet parts and diagnostic tools, providing peace of mind for owners and helping maintain warranties. Dealerships also provide guidance on maintenance schedules, repairs, and software updates for modern vehicles.
Test Drives and Customer Experience
Test drives are a critical part of the dealership experience, allowing buyers to experience handling, comfort, performance, and features firsthand. Whether testing a truck for towing capability, an SUV for passenger comfort, or a sedan for daily commuting, the hands-on experience helps customers make confident decisions.
Dealership staff also provide expert guidance on model comparisons, feature explanations, and customization options, ensuring that buyers understand the value and capabilities of their chosen Chevrolet vehicle.
Community Engagement and Dealer Support
Chevrolet dealerships often engage with local communities through sponsorships, charity events, and local programs. This involvement strengthens the relationship between the dealership and residents, creating trust and fostering long-term customer loyalty.
Dealerships also offer educational opportunities, workshops, and events that showcase new technology, safety systems, and vehicle features, helping buyers make informed decisions while enhancing community connection.
Choosing the Right Model for Your Needs
With a wide array of models, trims, and features, selecting the right Chevrolet vehicle depends on lifestyle, driving habits, and budget. Trucks are ideal for towing and hauling, SUVs for families and versatility, sedans for commuting, and electric/hybrid models for eco-conscious drivers.
Dealership visits allow prospective buyers to explore these options, ask questions, and compare vehicles side by side. Expert guidance ensures the vehicle chosen aligns with individual needs and expectations, maximizing satisfaction and long-term value.
Conclusion
The latest Chevrolet models offer a combination of performance, safety, technology, and style to meet the diverse needs of modern drivers. Trucks provide power and durability, SUVs deliver versatility and comfort, sedans offer efficiency and convenience, and electric vehicles pave the way for sustainable driving.
In recent years, Kia has rapidly transformed its reputation from a budget-friendly alternative to a mainstream automotive powerhouse. Known for blending futuristic design, advanced safety features, and industry-leading warranty coverage, the brand is attracting more drivers than ever before. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading to a more reliable ride, exploring Kia cars for sale has become a compelling choice for value-seeking and tech-savvy consumers alike. In this article, we’ll explore why Kia is gaining such tremendous popularity across global markets and how it has become a trusted name among modern drivers.
Impressive Design Evolution
One of the biggest reasons behind Kia’s rise in popularity is its dramatic design transformation. Gone are the days when Kia vehicles were seen as basic, economy-focused cars. Today, Kia models boast sleek exteriors, stylish LED lighting, bold front grilles, and aerodynamic body lines that rival luxury brands. Their “Opposites United” design philosophy blends elegance with sportiness, delivering a visual appeal that appeals to both young professionals and family-oriented buyers. From SUVs like the Kia Telluride to sedans like the K5, each model has a premium, modern presence on the road.
Excellent Value for Money
Kia has mastered the art of offering high-end features at accessible price points. While many competitors charge extra for features like wireless charging, heated seats, and advanced safety technology, Kia often includes these as standard or at lower trim levels. This makes the brand an ideal choice for drivers who want a premium experience without spending a premium price. The strong fuel economy of many Kia models further enhances long-term savings, making it a smart financial investment.
Industry-Leading Warranty Coverage
Kia offers one of the best warranties in the automotive industry, often providing up to 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage. This long warranty gives drivers peace of mind, reinforcing Kia’s confidence in its product quality and engineering. For families, young drivers, and long-distance commuters, this assurance is a major selling point. Few automakers come close to matching the security and trust Kia provides through its extended warranty support.
Advanced Technology and Infotainment Features
Kia vehicles consistently deliver technology beyond expectations for their price range. Modern Kia models feature large touchscreen infotainment systems, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, wireless smartphone connectivity, voice commands, premium Bose audio systems, and digital instrument clusters. The infotainment systems are intuitive, fast, and user-friendly—even for non-tech-savvy individuals. Additionally, Kia is continually integrating AI-based features, real-time navigation, and over-the-air software updates to stay competitive with the latest trends.
Comprehensive Safety and Driver Assistance Systems
Safety is a top priority for Kia, and the brand has invested heavily in smart driver assistance technology. Many Kia models come equipped with advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring, forward collision avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and pedestrian detection. These systems not only prevent accidents but also make everyday driving more convenient. Kia frequently earns top safety ratings from independent testing agencies, further enhancing driver confidence.
Strong Reputation for Reliability and Quality
Kia has significantly improved its reliability ratings over the past decade, earning recognition from consumer reports and industry rankings. With strong engineering practices and continuous upgrades to build quality, Kia has earned the trust of drivers worldwide. The brand is also known for using durable materials and high-quality interior components, making their cars long-lasting and dependable even after years of use.
Wide Range of Models for Every Lifestyle
Kia offers an extensive lineup that caters to different types of drivers. Whether you’re looking for a sporty sedan, a compact city car, a family-friendly SUV, or an eco-friendly hybrid or electric vehicle, Kia has an option to suit your needs. Models like the Kia Sorento and Sportage cater to adventure-seeking families, while the Kia EV6 and Niro target environmentally-conscious drivers. This versatile lineup ensures that Kia appeals to a broad demographic—from students to professionals to retirees.
Growing Focus on Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
As the automotive industry shifts toward green technology, Kia is at the forefront with innovative electric and hybrid vehicles. The Kia EV6, with its futuristic design and fast charging capabilities, has grabbed global attention as a serious competitor to Tesla and other premium EV brands. Kia’s hybrid models like the Niro and Sorento Hybrid offer fuel efficiency without compromising on performance or interior comfort. This proactive approach has helped Kia attract eco-conscious drivers looking to future-proof their purchase.
Comfortable and Feature-Rich Interiors
Step inside a modern Kia, and you’ll immediately notice the premium cabin quality. Soft-touch materials, ventilated seats, panoramic sunroofs, customizable ambient lighting, and spacious rear seating create a luxurious environment typically found in more expensive vehicles. Kia places strong emphasis on driver comfort and ergonomic design, ensuring long drives are as pleasant as daily commutes. Passengers also enjoy ample legroom and clever storage solutions, enhancing the practicality of the cabin.
Strong Resale Value and Growing Brand Trust
Due to improved quality, durability, and rising demand, Kia vehicles now enjoy strong resale value. As consumer perception continues to shift positively, used Kia models are becoming more desirable in the pre-owned market. Buyers feel increasingly confident that Kia cars will hold value over time, especially with their long warranty and proven reliability. This shift in reputation has further boosted Kia’s appeal among practical, future-thinking drivers.
Positive Customer Reviews and Global Awards
Kia consistently ranks high in satisfaction surveys and quality assessments conducted by industry organizations. The brand frequently wins awards for safety, design innovation, and customer satisfaction. Positive reviews from long-term owners reinforce its reputation as a durable, well-rounded brand. This wave of public trust has contributed significantly to Kia’s growth in competitive automotive markets.
Affordable Maintenance and Low Ownership Costs
In addition to offering affordable purchase prices, Kia vehicles are known for low maintenance costs. Parts are widely available and relatively inexpensive, and Kia service centers are known for efficient and customer-friendly assistance. Combined with strong fuel economy, Kia vehicles remain economical long after purchase—ideal for budget-conscious buyers and high-mileage drivers.
Conclusion Kia’s impressive rise in popularity is no accident—it is the result of strategic innovation, modern design, value-driven pricing, and a strong commitment to safety and customer satisfaction. With advanced technology, reliable performance, and an expanding lineup that includes cutting-edge electric vehicles, Kia has earned its place as a top choice among drivers worldwide. For anyone seeking a stylish, dependable, and future-ready vehicle, Kia stands out as a brand that delivers more than expected at every level.
MARTINSVILLE, Va. (Oct. 24, 2025) – For the 14th time in its history, Toyota has won the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Manufacturers’ Championship. This is the third time in the last five seasons Toyota has captured the coveted title, while the 14th overall title extends Toyota’s advantage in Truck Series history.
Toyota drivers and teams reached new heights during the 2025 Truck Series season, visiting victory lane 13 times, as well as earning 37 top-five and 58 top-10 finishes amongst its drivers. Toyota drivers also accounted for 25 stage wins on the year.
“The 2025 NASCAR Truck Series season has been a historic one for Toyota, culminating with our 14th Manufacturers’ Championship,” said Paul Doleshal, general manager, sponsorships and motorsports, Toyota Motor North America. “We cannot thank our drivers, team partners and TRD personnel enough for their efforts and sacrifices in helping Toyota win this championship. It’s been a special year in the Truck Series, and we look forward to celebrating this tremendous feat.”
Success this season was led by Toyota Development Driver Corey Heim, who garnered a record-breaking 2025 in his third full-time Truck Series campaign. The TRICON Garage driver captured 11 race victories so far on the season – a series record – along with earning the most Playoff points ever in a regular season (65) and stage wins in a full season (21) en-route to the 2025 Truck Series regular season championship with an eye on the series title next weekend in Phoenix.
Toyota has also visited victory lane with Halmar-Friesen Racing driver and co-owner Stewart Friesen at Michigan International Speedway in June, his first Truck Series win since 2022, as well as with Gio Ruggiero at Talladega Superspeedway in October, his first career Truck Series victory. Kaden Honeycutt, who has filled in for the injured Friesen, will join Heim in the Championship 4 at Phoenix in his first chance at a series title for the Halmar-Friesen Racing Toyota Tundra TRD Pro driver.
Toyota supports TRICON Garage and Halmar-Friesen Racing in the NASCAR Truck Series. Since joining the series in 2004, Toyota has won 247 races and captured 188 poles in 518 races. In addition to this year’s title, Toyota also claimed the Manufacturers’ Championship in 2006 (12 wins); 2007 (13 wins); 2008 (13 wins); 2009 (14 wins); 2010 (15 wins); 2013 (13 wins); 2014 (18 wins), 2015 (14 wins), 2016 (14 wins), 2017 (12 wins), 2019 (12 wins), 2021 (15 wins) and 2022 (12 wins).
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.
Honeycutt Finishes Second, Advances to Championship 4
MARTINSVILLE, VA. (October 24, 2025) – Corey Heim inched by TRICON Garage teammate Brent Crews with less than 20 laps enroute to victory in Friday night’s Truck Series race at Martinsville Speedway. The Georgia-native added to his Truck Series single season win record with his 11th victory this season and 22nd victory of his career. In the last 10 races, Heim has won seven and had already clinched a Championship 4 berth at Phoenix next weekend by virtue of his win at the Charlotte Motor Speedway Roval earlier this month. It is the third straight year that Heim will be a Championship 4 participant.
Heim crossed the finished line ahead of Toyota teammate Kaden Honeycutt and fellow Toyota Development Driver Brent Crews, who recorded his second career top-five in just nine career Truck Series starts.
Honeycutt, who entered the race just five points above the cutline, made a late-race charge to bring home a runner-up finish that propelled him to his first Championship 4 birth. The Texas-native became the second Toyota Tundra TRD Pro locked into the Championship 4 by virtue of winning the tiebreaker over Layne Riggs with the best finish of the Round of 8 between the two drivers.
Toyota GAZOO Racing Post-Race Recap NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) Martinsville Speedway Race 24 of 25 – 200 Miles, 105.2 Laps
How does it feel to bring home another win tonight? “We’ve got a big race next week and a lot of momentum heading into Phoenix and keep our guys with their heads held high and you know what they are working on going to Phoenix. I feel like it was a rocky race there getting behind on track position. We wanted to capitalize on our day and make the most of it. I really think we had the truck we had in the spring, but once we got out front it really showed that we had something to work with here. Just really grateful to everyone at TRICON Garage, Toyota, Safelite, Mobil 1, Celsius, and just everyone that’s gotten me to this point so far. It feels sweet to close it out. It’s going to be tough, but I’m confident we can do it.”
KADEN HONEYCUTT, No. 52 Halmar International Toyota Tundra TRD Pro, Halmar Friesen Racing
Finishing Position: 2nd
You made it to the Championship 4 on a tiebreaker with a second-place finish. What are your emotions right now?
“It’s awesome. I could have easily been on the couch after July. Thanks to Stewart (Freisen) and Halmar, and Jimmie (Villeneuve, crew chief) and all these guys at Toyota. Jimmie is another reason why I was able to drive this truck – he believed in me. The rest of these guys, Toyota, Halmar, Al Hankey, Chris Larson. It looks like I just won the super bowl, but I don’t come from a lot. I worked my ass off with my dad in my garage and worked all night on racecars to get to this point. It means a lot that I even had a chance. I hate that I didn’t execute that last restart very well to be Corey, but it doesn’t matter anymore. I’m glad that he got the win and we get to go fight for a championship now next week. It’s pretty incredible.”
What does it mean to make it to the Championship 4 running for two different teams in your first season in the Truck Series?
“It’s awesome. Thanks to Stewart (Friesen), Toyota, HFR, for the opportunity to step in this seat for him and do a good job for them. I wanted to do it so damn bad for Stewart and this race team and this playoff run was for them more than it was myself. I should have very easily been on the couch in July and the rest of this year and not been in the playoffs. Thanks to amazing people like Chris Larson, Jimmie, Al Hankey, and Toyota. I’m so thankful to be part of this manufacturer next year. I’m so grateful and we get to go to Phoenix next week and get to fight for it. Regardless if we get to win it or not, it’s been an amazing season for me and just the fact that I even got here is pretty incredible.”
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 2025, Toyota’s plant in North Carolina began to assemble automotive batteries for electrified vehicles.
The primary thing to do while driving is focus on the road. Being careless while driving leads to accidents. This accident not only affects the victim but also the driver and everyone involved in the accident. The main reason for accidents to happen is distraction. Nowadays, distraction has become a silent pandemic killing millions of people.
Distracted driving accidents contribute to thousands of injuries and fatalities every year. Certain studies show that a huge number of accidents could have been avoided with greater awareness.
Here is a list of distractions that cause accidents.
Usage of Mobile Phones While Driving
One of the top distractions leading to accidents is using mobile phones. Texting or calling someone takes a driver’s eye, hand, and mind off driving. Especially, texting is very dangerous because it distracts the driver for several seconds. Many states have laws against handheld phone use while driving. In order to stay safe, drivers should avoid looking at the phone while driving.
Talking With the Passenger
Having long conversations with the passengers behind can cause accidents. Engaging in emotional debates and handling noisy kids can divert a driver’s attention. In such situations, it’s better to park the vehicle somewhere on the roadside to prevent any huge collisions.
Eating and Drinking While Driving
A very common distraction while driving is eating or drinking food items while driving a vehicle. Reaching for a snack or sipping a drink can take a driver’s hand and eyes off the road. This act eventually leads to an accident.
To avoid such situations, you can eat before or after the trip. Smoking inside the car can also be dangerous. While smoking, you hold a cigarette, flick the ashes, and try to drop it. For doing this, at least one of your hands is constantly occupied.
Personal Grooming While Driving
Personal grooming while driving, such as applying makeup or brushing hair, could be very risky. Grooming often requires looking into the mirrors or taking a hand off the wheel. This limits the driver’s ability to drive properly. Grooming should be done before or after driving to keep attention on the road.
Fatigue While Driving
Tired drivers may zone out while driving, especially at nighttime. This gradually increases the chances of a crash. Tiredness cannot be completely considered as distraction. If a driver feels fatigued, they can’t apply the brakes at the right time, which can lead to a crash. To prevent this, the driver can take breaks, hydrate themselves, or better yet, avoid driving at such times.
Daydreaming
Daydreaming might seem like a minor distraction but, in reality, is highly dangerous. A driver can daydream about anything, like thinking about work, planning the day, or overthinking a recent argument. This cognitive distraction can reduce the ability of the driver to react quickly.
Pets in the Vehicle
Having pets in the car can also sometimes be hard to handle. Pets can create chaos while driving. A dog or cat jumping onto a driver’s lap can make the driver lose control. Even smaller actions like scratching your cat or a dog barking loudly can distract a driver. This results in fatal accidents.
Tips to Minimize Risk:
Before you start driving, secure your kids and pets.
Set the radio, adjust your mirrors, and set up your GPS to reduce risk.
Put your phone in “Do Not Disturb” mode.
Whether you’re walking or driving, always give the work at hand your whole concentration. The cost of being distracted is just too high.
Key Takeaways
Distraction during driving causes a lot of accidents across the world.
Using mobile phones while driving is the major cause of a lot of fatal accidents.
Another common distraction while driving a vehicle is eating or drinking.
While driving, one can stop doing personal grooming to stop deadly crashes from happening.
Taking pets and kids for the trip can also cause huge distractions, as they are hard to control.
Corey Heim gained extra momentum in his quest for this year’s NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series championship at Martinsville Speedway after winning the Playoff’s Round of 8 finale, Sim Jim 200, at Martinsville Speedway on Friday, October 24, amid a dominant run and an overtime shootout.
The 23-year-old Heim from Marietta, Georgia, led three times for a race-high 77 of 203 overscheduled laps. He qualified in fourth place and led for the first time on Lap 48. After sweeping the event’s first two stage periods, he pitted his entry for the first time prior to the final stage period. Despite restarting in 10th place for the final stage, he kept his No. 11 TRICON Garage Toyota entry intact and methodically worked his way back to the front through three restarts amid on-track chaos.
During a brief restart with 15 laps remaining, Heim outdueled teammate Brent Crews to return atop the leaderboard. He then retained the top spot through two late-race cautions that sent the event into overtime. He also fended off the competition through a single overtime shootout to notch his unprecedented 11th victory of the 2025 season and gain another late-season momentum entering next weekend’s season-finale event at Phoenix Raceway.
With on-track qualifying that determined the starting lineup occurring on Friday, Playoff contender Layne Riggs claimed his third pole position of the 2025 season with a pole-winning lap at 97.217 mph in 19.478 seconds. Riggs shared the front row with rookie Giovanni Ruggiero, the latter of whom clocked in his fastest time at 97.063 mph in 19.509 seconds.
Prior to the event, veteran racer Casey Mears, who made his 600th NASCAR national touring series career start, started at the rear of the field due to a transmission change to his No. 69 MBM Motorsports entry. Clayton Green also dropped to the rear of the field for repairs and unapproved adjustments to his No. 2 Reaume Brothers Racing entry.
When the green flag waved and the event commenced, Layne Riggs used the inside lane through the first two turns to muscle ahead of Giovanni Ruggiero. With both lanes to his advantage, Riggs cycled back to the frontstretch and proceeded to lead the first lap while Ruggiero and a host of Playoff competitors that included Ty Majeski, Corey Heim, Kaden Honeycutt, Tyler Ankrum, Rajah Caruth, Grant Enfinger and Daniel Hemric followed suit.
Over the next four laps, Riggs proceeded to stretch his lead to nearly a second over Ruggiero while Majeski, Heim, Honeycutt, Caruth, Ankrum, Hemric and Enfinger followed suit within the top-eight spots on the track. Then on the sixth lap, the event’s first caution flew when Andres Perez de Lara, who was locked in a three-wide battle with Matt Crafton and Connor Mosack for a top-15 spot, spun after he got hit in the left rear by Crafton, to which Perez proceeded to hit the outside wall in Turn 4.
The start of the next restart on the 12th lap featured Riggs fending off Ruggiero through the first two turns as the former then led the next lap. As Riggs led, Ruggiero and Majeski battled for the runner-up spot in front of Heim, Honeycutt and Caruth while Ankrum, Enfinger, Hemric, Tanner Gray and Ben Rhodes followed suit, respectively.
On the 20th lap, the event’s second caution flew due to fluid being reported on the track and coming out from Matt Mills’ entry. During the recent caution period, select names that included Jake Garcia, Corey LaJoie, Norm Benning and Frankie Muniz pitted their respective entries while the rest led by Riggs remained on the track.
As the event restarted under green on Lap 28, Riggs, who restarted as the lead competitor on the inside lane, struggled to launch at the start due to a shifting issue. This allowed Majeski, who started on the outside lane alongside Rigggs, to rocket ahead with the lead. Heim, Ankrum, Enfinger and Tanner Gray all followed suit while Riggs dropped back to sixth place. Amid the restart scramble, Hemric sustained rear end damage and Logan Bearden hit the inside wall while Majeski led the next lap over a hard-charging Heim.
At the Lap 35 mark, Majeski was leading by four-tents of a second over Heim while Ankrum, Enfinger and Riggs followed suit ahead of Tanner Gray, Honeycutt, Ruggiero, Brent Crews and Caruth. Meanwhile, Hemric, who sustained damage to his entry amid the restart jumble, was down in 13th place behind Ben Rhodes and Brenden “Butterbean” Queen while Majeski retained the lead by seventh-tenths of a second on Lap 40.
Shortly after on Lap 40, the event’s third caution flew after Queen collided and sent the lapped competitor of Norm Benning sideways in Turn 1. Amid the contact between Queen and Benning, Hemric sustained more cosmetic damage to his entry after he ran into the rear of Queen while Hemric himself was run into by Conner Jones. During the latest caution, some including Jones, Hemric, Mosaic, Garcia, Timmy Hill, Mears, Chandler Smith, Breidinger, Crafton, Spencer Boyd and Alan Waller pitted while the rest led by Majeski remained on the track. During his pit services for repairs, Hemric lost a lap to the field.
With four laps remaining in the first stage period, Majeski retained the lead over Heim following a strong launch through the first two turns and the backstretch. Heim then got underneath Majeski through the first two turns during the following lap. Heim’s move allowed the Georgian to clear Majeski through Turn 4. As Heim led ahead of Majeski, Enfinger moved up to third place in front of Ankrum and Gray while Riggs, Honeycutt, Ruggiero, Crews and Caruth were in the top 10, respectively.
When the first stage period concluded on Lap 50, Heim captured his 20th Truck stage victory of the 2025 season. Majeski settled in second ahead of Enfinger, Ankrum and Gray while Riggs, Honeycutt, Ruggiero, Caruth and Brent Crews were scored in the top 10, respectively. With seven of eight Playoff contenders racking up the event’s first round of stage points, Hemric was the lone contender who did not as he was mired in 30th place and scored a lap down.
Under the first stage break period, Crews, Queen, Wood, Sutton, Patrick Staropoli, Justin Carroll, Timmy Hill, Casey Mears, Muniz and Waller pitted while the rest led by Heim remained on the track. Meanwhile, Hemric cycled back on the lead lap as he was the first competitor scored a lap down at the conclusion of the first stage break period.
The second stage period started on Lap 61 as Heim and Majeski occupied the front row. At the start, Heim used the inside lane through the first two turns to muscle ahead of Majeski. With the lead in his possession through the backstretch along with Turns 3 and 4, Heim led the next lap while Majeski, Enfinger, Ankrum, Gray and Riggs followed suit, respectively.
At the Lap 70 mark, Heim, who led since the start of the second stage period, was leading by half a second over Majeski while Enfinger, Ankrum, Riggs, Gray, Caruth, Honeycutt, LaJoie and Conner Jones followed suit in the top 10, respectively. Meanwhile, Hemric was mired in 29th place.
Two laps later, the caution returned when Caruth, who made contact with Honeycutt in Turn 4 a lap prior while battling for seventh place, spun and made hard contact into the Turn 1 outside wall as he sustained a cut left-rear tire from the contact with Honeycutt. The incident was enough to terminate Caruth’s event due to the damage to his entry. It was also enough to terminate his hopes of securing a Championship 4 berth.
During the caution period, some including LaJoie, Ruggiero, Honeycutt, Chandler Smith, Mosaic and Timmy Hill pitted while the rest led by Heim remained on the track.
The start of the next restart on Lap 80 featured Heim muscling ahead and retaining the lead over Majeski, Enfinger and the field through the first two turns and the backstretch. As Heim stretched his lead to half a second during the following lap, Majeski retained the runner-up spot over Riggs while Enfinger, Gray, Ankrum, Honeycutt, Jones, Crews and Rhodes followed suit, respectively.
Just past the Lap 90 mark, Heim stretched his lead to nine-tenths of a second over Majeski while third-place Riggs followed suit by more than a second. Behind, Enfinger and Gray remained in the top five while Ankrum occupied sixth place ahead of Crews, Honeycutt, Jones and Rhodes. Meanwhile, Hemric was mired in 20th place behind LaJoie while Matt Crafton, Todd, Queen, Sutton and Ruggiero were racing in the top 15.
When the second stage period concluded on Lap 100, Heim notched his second Truck stage victory of the event and his 21st of the 2025 season. Majeski followed suit in second for a second consecutive stage by eight-tenths of a second while Riggs, Enfinger, Gray, Ankrum, Crews, Honeycutt, Jones and Rhodes racked up the event’s second round of stage points by being scored in the top 10, respectively. Meanwhile, Hemric remained in 20th place behind Garcia.
During the second stage break period, nearly the entire field led by Heim pitted while the rest that included Crews, Ruggiero, Wood, Chandler Smith, Bayley Currey, LaJoie, Garcia, Hemric and Mosaic remained on the track.
With 89 laps remaining, the third and final stage period commenced as teammates Crews and Ruggiero occupied the front row. At the start, Ruggiero dueled with Crews for a full lap as the former managed to lead the next lap. As Ruggiero proceeded to lead ahead of Crews, the field fanned out to multiple lanes through every turn and straightaway as Wood, Currey, Chandler Smith and Hemric followed suit.
Down to the final 80 laps of the event, Ruggiero retained the lead by two-tenths of a second over teammate Crews while Wood, Currey and Chandler Smith continued to race in the top five, respectively. Behind, Hemric occupied sixth place ahead of LaJoie, Mosaic, Majeski, Heim, Honeycutt, Riggs and Enfinger while Ankrum was mired in 19th place.
Fifteen laps later, Crews overtook Ruggiero to assume the lead. As Crews proceeded to lead with 60 laps remaining, Heim, who restarted in 10th place, carved his way up to fourth place behind Chandler Smith. Riggs, Majeski and Honeycutt followed suit from sixth through eighth on the track. Meanwhile, Hemric and Enfinger, both of whom were placed in “must-win” situations to make the Championship 4 round, were racing in 10th and 11th on the track.
Shortly after, the caution flew with 60 laps remaining due to Alan Waller spinning through the first two turns. During the caution period, some, including Hemric, LaJoie, Timmy Hill, Garcia, Bayley Currey and Wood pitted while the rest led by Crews, remained on the track.
When the event restarted under green with 52 laps remaining, Crews retained the lead over teammates Ruggiero and Heim, along with Chandler Smith, through the first two turns and the backstretch. As Crews retained the lead over the next three laps, Smith navigated his way into the runner-up spot over Ruggiero and Heim while Riggs, Majeski, Honeycutt and Enfinger all followed suit within the top-eight mark, respectively.
The caution then returned with 46 laps remaining due to a three-truck accident through the first two turns that started when LaJoie made contact with Breidinger, sending the latter and Patrick Staropoli spinning, with Breidinger wrecking against the outside wall. During the latest caution period, select names led by Ruggiero and including Enfinger and Hemric pitted while the rest led by Crews remained on the track.
The start of the next restart, with 38 laps remaining, featured Crews retaining the lead while teammate Heim battled Chandler Smith for the runner-up spot. As the field jostled for late positions, Heim prevailed in his late battle against Smith for the runner-up spot while Crews continued to lead by a second with 35 laps remaining. Meanwhile, Hemric’s hopes of advancing to the Championship 4 round diminished as he took his entry to the garage due to a mechanical issue.
With less than 30 laps remaining, Crews continued to lead by more than a second over teammate Heim, while third-place Chandler Smith trailed by two seconds. Riggs and Honeycutt trailed in the top five by within three seconds while Gray, Majeski, Queen, Jones, and LaJoie were scored in the top 10, respectively. Meanwhile, Ankrum was racing in 11th place while Enfinger battled Jack Wood for 15th place.
Following another late caution that flew with 22 laps remaining due to Mosack wrecking in Turn 4 amid contact from Ruggiero, the next restart with 15 laps remaining featured Heim battling Crews for the lead for a full lap. As Crews and Heim continued to battle for the top spot in front of Honeycutt, the caution returned due to Currey spinning in Turn 4. At the moment of caution, Heim was ruled the leader over Crews.
Amid the next restart with nine laps remaining, where Heim led Honeycutt, Chandler Smith and Crews, another caution flew with six laps remaining when Jones, who was battling for a top-10 spot, spun and ignited a five-truck wreck in the backstretch that involved Garcia, Perez de Lara, Dawson Sutton and Ben Rhodes. The incident was also enough to send the event into overtime.
At the start of overtime, Heim used the inside lane through the first two turns to muscle ahead of Honeycutt while teammate Crews battled Honeycutt for the runner-up spot. Amid a stacked field that followed suit, Heim drove away with the top spot.
When the white flag waved and the final lap started, Heim remained in the lead over a tight three-truck battle that involved Honeycutt, Crews and Riggs. With a bevy of competition lurking behind him, Heim was able to navigate his No. 11 Safelite Toyota Tundra TRD Pro entry smoothly around Martinsville for a final time before he cycled back to the frontstretch and claimed the checkered flag by four-tenths of a second.
With the victory, Heim extended the series’ record of most Craftsman Truck Series victories recorded in a single season to 11. Heim also racked up his 22nd career victory, his second at Martinsville and his seventh over the previous 10 races to this year’s schedule.
Having clinched a Championship 4 berth earlier this month, Heim sets his sights on winning his first NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series championship at the conclusion of next weekend’s season-finale event at Phoenix Raceway. Even with a record-breaking season highlighted by 11 victories, Heim is not yet ready to call himself a champion before the finale.
Photo by John Knittel for SpeedwayMedia.com.
“I don’t want to jump to any conclusions yet,” Heim said on the frontstretch on FS1. “We got a big race next week. He continued, “I wanted the momentum going to Phoenix, to keep all our guys with heads held high and what they’re working on going into Phoenix. I feel like it was definitely a rocky race there, getting behind in track position, but we wanted to capitalize on our day and make the most of it. [I] Got a big one next week to close [the season] out, so it’s going to be tough, but I’m confident we can do it.”
Meanwhile, Kaden Honeycutt crossed the finish line for a career-best runner-up result while Layne Riggs edged Brent Crews to claim third place. As a result, both Honeycutt and Riggs were left tied in points for the fourth and final transfer berth to the Championship 4 round, but it was Honeycutt who claimed the tie-breaker and achieved the final berth.
In a season where he made a mid-season change to Halmar Friesen Racing to replace the injured Stewart Friesen prior to qualifying for his first Playoffs, Honeycutt will now contend for his first series title.
“It’s unbelievable, man,” Honeycutt said. “I should have very easily been on the couch in July after I made my decision on what to do. I’m so grateful to be a part of Toyota and this amazing manufacturer. To carry on this championship now, we got a 50% chance of winning it, at least. So I’m very much looking forward to next weekend. Regardless of how everything goes, I’m just extremely thankful.”
Amid Honeycutt’s emotional highs, Riggs was left dejected, both on missing the Championship 4 cutline and the Martinsville competition that had the North Carolina native navigating his way to the front, where on-track contact was involved to which Riggs did not want to utilize.
“I just don’t like racing that way, man,” Riggs said. “I want to race straight up and how it’s supposed to be, but I’m hearing, ‘got to get a spot; got to get one.’ I’m gonna do what my team tells me to do to get in this championship. And [I’m] roughing guys up I don’t really want to rough up. They’ve done nothing to me in the past. I just don’t like racing like that, man.”
Ty Majeski and Tyler Ankrum finished seventh and ninth, respectively, and join Heim and Honeycutt as the other two finalists to achieve Championship 4 berths. For Ankrum, this season marks his first-ever time reaching the final Playoff round as he will contend for his first championship. For Majeski, he will enter next weekend’s finale at Phoenix with an opportunity to defend his series title.
Riggs joins Grant Enfinger, Daniel Hemric, and Rajah Caruth as the remaining four Playoff contenders who did not advance to the Championship 4 round.
There were 10 lead changes for six different leaders. The event featured 11 cautions for 75 laps. In addition, 23 of 35 starters finished on the lead lap.
Results:
1. Corey Heim, 77 laps led, Stages 1 & 2 winner 2. Kaden Honeycutt 3. Layne Riggs, 27 laps led 4. Brent Crews, 53 laps led 5. Corey LaJoie 6. Chandler Smith, one lap led 7. Ty Majeski, 20 laps led 8. Tanner Gray 9. Tyler Ankrum 10. Brenden Queen 11. Giovanni Ruggiero, 25 laps led 12. Grant Enfinger 13. Jack Wood 14. Ben Rhodes 15. Patrick Staropoli 16. Timmy Hill 17. Spencer Boyd 18. Jake Garcia 19. Dawson Sutton 20. Justin Carroll 21. Bayley Curry 22. Conner Jones 23. Frankie Muniz 24. Casey Mears, two laps down 25. Logan Bearden, six laps down 26. Toni Breidinger, seven laps down 27. Matt Mills, nine laps down 28. Andres Perez de Lara, 14 laps down 29. Matt Crafton – OUT, Brakes 30. Connor Mosack – OUT, Accident 31. Daniel Hemric – OUT, Engine 32. Alan Waller – OUT, Accident 33. Norm Benning – OUT, Too Slow 34. Rajah Caruth – OUT, Accident 35. Clayton Green – OUT, Electrical *Bold indicates Playoff competitors.
Playoff standings:
1. Corey Heim – Advanced 2. Tyler Ankrum – Advanced 3. Ty Majeski – Advanced 4. Kaden Honeycutt – Advanced 5. Layne Riggs – Eliminated 6. Rajah Caruth – Eliminated 7. Grant Enfinger – Eliminated 8. Daniel Hemric – Eliminated
The 2025 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season is set to conclude at Phoenix Raceway in Avondale, Arizona, where a champion will be crowned. The finale is scheduled to occur next Friday, October 31, and air at 7:30 p.m. ET on FS1, NASCAR Racing Network and SiriusXM.
Ford Racing Notes and Quotes NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Slim Jim 200 Friday, October 24, 2025
MAJESKI ADVANCES TO CHAMPIONSHIP 4; RIGGS KNOCKED OUT ON TIEBREAKER
Ty Majeski will get a chance to defend his NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series championship after advancing to the Championship 4 with tonight’s seventh place finish.
Despite finishing third, Layne Riggs was eliminated on a tiebreaker with Kaden Honeycutt.
Ford Unofficial Finishing Results:
3rd – Layne Riggs 6th – Chandler Smith 7th – Ty Majeski 14th – Ben Rhodes 18th – Jake Garcia 23rd – Frankie Muniz 24th – Casey Mears 29th – Matt Crafton 32nd – AJ Waller 35th – Clayton Green
LAYNE RIGGS, No. 38 Bare Knuckles Boxing Ford F-150 – “I was dejected even when I thought we were in at first. I just don’t like racing that way. I’m hearing, ‘Gotta get one. Gotta get one.’ And everybody knows how it is. If I’ve got the opportunity to get in for my team, I’m gonna do it even if I don’t want to do it the way I do. I mean, I got there at the end. I hate I roughed up the 1 and I’m glad he still finished pretty good. It all kind of started with that missed shift on that restart. I’m not really sure what happened. I’ve never missed a shift in a truck in my whole career. We do have some new transmissions and I guess I’m just not quite used to them yet, so I’m pretty upset about that. I think things could have been a lot different, but it all started at the ROVAL and getting turned around on lap one. We go to Talladega and having all the issues we had. I’m definitely dejected. I would have been dejected if we were even in fourth. I just don’t like it.”
YOU ENDED UP LOSING OUT ON A TIEBREAKER. “Even that last lap I thought that we were in and it’s still just upsetting. I just don’t like racing like that. I want to race straight up and how it’s supposed to be, but I’m hearing, ‘Gotta get a spot. You’ve got to get one.’ I’m gonna do what my team tells me to do to get in this championship. Roughing guys up, I don’t really want to rough up – they’ve done nothing to me in the past. I just don’t like racing like that. I don’t like how it comes down to the end like this and how people have to race, especially at a track like Martinsville. It’s never been my favorite race of the year, but this 34 team did a great job all year. I would have been on the disappointed side even if we were in. It’s just really odd how it all plays out with these playoff formats, but I’m excited for the future with this race team – coming back with them and fighting for it again next year. We’ve been strong all year. I’m not gonna hang my head about today. We’ve had such a great year all year long and battled up front. I learned a lot and excited to see what our future holds.”
TY MAJESKI, No. 98 Soda Sense/Curb Records Ford F-150 – “Obviously, I have mixed emotions. We come to a short track and we expect to be a little bit more competitive than that, but we qualified good, got good stage points and that was the difference tonight. I knew once we got back in traffic we were in pretty big trouble. I kind of knew from when we unloaded this thing today that it wasn’t quite right, but we persevered and got good stage points. The crew guys had a hell of a pit stop and kept our track position and I was just kind of playing defense at the end. It was just good enough.”
WHAT WERE THOSE LAST 10 LAPS LIKE? “I was just trying to get every spot. I knew it was gonna come down to a handful of points, if not one or two and it did. Obviously, it wasn’t the fashion we wanted to do it in, but I’m proud of everybody for not giving up. We got a good restart at the end and was able to grab one or two spots I think and that was the difference.”
WHAT WAS THE BRAKE SITUATION LIKE AT THE END? “I’ve been in that position before. You lose brakes not often but enough to have some experience, just trying to get everything cooled down and trying to get the brake pedal back. Honestly, the stacked cautions at the end really helped us. I was able to get everything cooled down and get the brake pedal back.”
HOW HELPLESS IS THAT FEELING? “You’re just trying to do what you can to get every spot that you can. It looked like, for the most part, everybody raced pretty clean. Obviously, there was some bumping and banging to try and advance to Phoenix, which is to be expected, but it certainly didn’t turn into a mess like we’ve seen in the past with some of the other series.”
IT’S SO HARD TO GET TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP 4 AND NOW YOU GET TO DEFEND YOUR TITLE. WHAT DOES THAT MEAN? “It’s special. That’s three of the last four years now with this 98 group that we’re advancing to have a shot at a title in Phoenix and that’s something to be proud of. We probably would have been able to advance in 2023 if it wasn’t for a penalty that kind of derailed our playoff run, but I’m proud of the effort and so happy to be going into Phoenix with a shot.”
Harvey and Liddy Sweep Pro-Am; Race for RP Earns Podiums and Fuels Purpose Off Track
Monrovia, CA (October 24, 2025) – Forte Racing closed out its inaugural McLaren Trophy America season with a commanding performance at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The team’s No. 24 Cypress Land Co. McLaren Artura Trophy EVO, driven by Tanner Harvey and Patrick Liddy, captured the overall and Pro-Am victory in Race 1 before following up with a third place overall and another Pro-Am win in Race 2. The result marked a double class sweep and an emphatic finish to the 2025 season.
The team’s Race for RP entry, piloted by Neil Langberg and Kevin Madsen, added to the celebration with Papaya Cup podiums in both races. Beyond the track, the weekend also featured McLaren’s Finish Line Social Fueled by Race for RP on Friday evening, where partners, team owners and drivers, and program supporters gathered to celebrate the success of the inaugural McLaren Trophy America season and raise awareness and vital funds for autoimmune disease research, underscoring the team’s dual mission of racing for performance and for purpose.
Drivers Tanner Harvey and Patrick Liddy showed exceptional pace and teamwork throughout the weekend, combining to deliver RP Motorsports by Forte Racing’s first overall McLaren Trophy America victory.
“What a weekend at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway,” Harvey said. “From the moment we hit the track, everything just clicked. We qualified P1 in class and 3rd overall for Race 1, and P3 in class and 7th overall for Race 2 — setting us up for one of the most exciting weekends yet.
In Race 1, I started and jumped straight into the fight for the lead. After moving into P1 overall, I handed the car off to Patrick Liddy, who absolutely sent it in the second half — bringing it home 1st in class and 1st overall. Total team effort and pure execution.
For Race 2, Patrick started and charged through the field before handing the wheel to me to close it out. We finished 1st in class and 3rd overall, locking down another strong podium to cap off an unforgettable weekend.
I was also named Driver of the Weekend, which is a huge honor — and honestly, just the icing on the cake after everything we accomplished. As Ricky Bobby says, “If you ain’t first, you’re last.” Indy was all about pushing the limit, trusting the car, and leaving it all out there.
Huge thanks to Forte Racing, Cypress Land Co., McLaren, and our entire crew for giving us a car that was fast, reliable, and ready to fight. And of course, to Patrick, for being an absolute beast behind the wheel — couldn’t ask for a better teammate.”
Harvey’s teammate, Patrick Liddy, echoed his enthusiasm and credited the team’s preparation and execution for the dominant result.
“I have to thank everyone at Forte for a fantastic finale to McLaren Trophy,” Liddy said. “Doesn’t get better than winning both races and coming away with an overall win in Race 1. Tanner drove amazing races and very consistent, smart stints. I was also happy with the car and my pace, especially in race one. Looking forward to coming back next year!”
In the Papaya Cup division, driver Neil Langberg and coach Kevin Madsen capped a season of progress with back-to-back podium finishes. Despite an early setback in Race 1, the duo rebounded with a strong P2 finish in Race 2, continuing their mission to raise awareness for Relapsing Polychondritis and related autoimmune diseases.
“IMS is my new favorite track,” Langberg said. “Our strategy was to keep our position in the Papaya Cup. The team effort was huge and focused. In Race 1 we had good pace and held the position until I suffered a bad shunt from behind. This hit took me off track for a while, but we finished a P3 in the cup race. In Race 2 with the car repaired the results were better with a P2 result.
The weekend finished with the McLaren Finish Line Social which raised important donations to fund continuing research for RP.
Focus now shifts to the UK/MTC on 11/15 for the Trophy season-ending dinner and one more bite of the papaya to raise more awareness and accelerate research for autoimmune disease.
As for the season, many thanks to McLaren and Forte Racing. The season was transformative with a new series, new car and new team. What did not change was that we kept our eyes up on the prize of helping patients with RP and autoimmune diseases. Building on relationships old and new, the goal of why we race remains the same: finding a cure for RP and this race never ends. Looking forward to’26’.”
Langberg’s co-driver Kevin Madsen, reflected on the team’s performance and his driver’s steady growth throughout the season.
“It would have been hard to wrap up the season any better,” Madsen said. “Proud of Neil. He’s talked a lot about this transformative year and the most exciting part for me has been watching his continual transformation into a fully focused and improved driver on track. He’s stood on the podium more this year than any past racing season in his life and it just goes to show that hard work pays off.
The entire Forte team helped make that happen and they should be immensely proud as well. The team awards they’ve won and the overall win this weekend for Tanner and Patrick are further proof of the Forte’s dominant performance. I can’t wait to get to work on next season but let’s not forget we still have plenty to do for RP in the offseason! Thanks to all who have followed along, attended our fundraisers, shared and donated to this worthy cause. Let’s keep this momentum rolling at race pace!”
RP Motorsports by Forte Racing Team Manager Jon Miller commended the program’s growth and unity during its debut McLaren Trophy campaign.
“Our debut McLaren Trophy season has been a masterclass in growth, grit, and good racing,” Miller said. “Kevin and Neil showed the heart of this program every weekend and closing it out at Indy feels like the perfect punctuation mark on a remarkable first chapter for RP Motorsports by Forte.”
Forte Racing Team Program Manager David Cozart added praise for both the drivers and the team’s engineering effort throughout the year.
“The final race of the season was a great experience,” Cozart said. “Neil and Kevin had an excellent weekend, driving with intent, passion, and focus. Neil’s performance on the Papaya Cup podium truly reinforced the message that drives the Race for RP – what a class act!
Our Pro-Am entry absolutely excelled in its class. Tanner and Patrick worked together in beautiful harmony, setting a high standard for others to follow.
This last season the Forte Racing team truly rose to the occasion, taking on a new chassis development in the SRO racing format. I believe we successfully massaged and tuned the chassis to best suit our drivers, making them highly competitive. Thank you to all at McLaren, SRO, and all my Forte teammates for making this a season to remember.”
Team Principal Shane Seneviratne concluded by recognizing the group’s shared success on and off the track, as well as their continued commitment to the Race for RP mission.
“This weekend at Indianapolis was the perfect way to close out our first McLaren Trophy America season,” Seneviratne said. “The entire team executed at a high level, from Tanner and Patrick’s outstanding double wins to Neil and Kevin’s continued progress and podiums in the Papaya Cup. What makes me proud isn’t just the results, it’s how everyone came together around the Race for RP mission. The dedication, collaboration, and passion from every driver, crew member, and partner have made this season special. We’ve built a strong foundation with McLaren and look forward to growing this program even further in 2026, both on track and in support of the fight against autoimmune disease.”
With the McLaren Trophy America finale complete, RP Motorsports by Forte Racing now looks ahead to the McLaren Technology Centre awards on November 15, where champions and teams will gather to celebrate the season. The team’s purpose remains clear — to keep racing for awareness, funding, and a future free from autoimmune disease.
To learn more about the mission behind the team, watch the award-winning documentary The Race of Our Lives, now streaming on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0tZYRazk8U.
ABOUT RACE FOR RP
Race for RP is a motorsports initiative aimed at driving awareness and accelerating research for RP and other autoimmune diseases. Through collaboration with drivers, teams, and sponsors, Race for RP fuels education, accelerates research, and raises awareness of Relapsing Polychondritis and other related autoimmune diseases. For more information, visit raceforrp.org or follow @raceforrp on social media.
ABOUT FORTE RACING
Founded in 2023, Forte Racing is a motorsports team based in Los Angeles and Charlotte, supported by Lamborghini Squadra Corse. Under the watchful eye of Shane Seneviratne, the team competes in various racing series, including the IMSA WeatherTech GTD Championship, the IMSA VP Racing Sportscar Challenge, and Lamborghini Super Trofeo and, in 2025, plans to expand by adding a single-car entry in
the inaugural McLaren Trophy America Championship. Building on the foundation of US RaceTronics, the team has quickly built a strong reputation with multiple podium finishes, race wins, and several North American and World Championships. For more information about the team, its drivers, and race operations, visit www.forteracing.com.
ABOUT THE SERIES
The inaugural McLaren Trophy America Championship series launched in Spring 2025. The season features 10 rounds at five iconic U.S. tracks with each event coinciding with the Fanatec GT World Challenge America powered by AWS.
ABOUT RELAPSING POLYCHONDRITIS
RP is a rare and degenerative autoimmune disease that primarily affects cartilage in the body, causing inflammation that can lead to severe complications. RP affects multiple organs, including the ears, nose, airways, joints, and even the heart and brain. Research is essential to improve care and treatment options for those living with RP.
LAS VEGAS (Oct. 24, 2025) – It all comes down to Las Vegas for 32 standouts in the NHRA Summit Series, as world championships will be on the line for competitors in the Super Pro, Pro, Sportsman and Motorcycle categories as part of the upcoming Dodge NHRA Nevada Nationals powered by Direct Connection, which takes place Oct. 30-Nov. 2 at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
The ”Road to Vegas” featured eight hotly-contested Summit Racing Series E.T. Finals across the seven NHRA divisions and Canada, crowning E.T. Finals winners and setting the stage for a thrilling world championship battle in Las Vegas.
This year’s annual event features an incredible lineup of standout drivers in the NHRA Summit Series from the United States and Canada, and the stakes are at an all-time high in Las Vegas. For the first time, winners in each category will receive $6,000, while the runner-up in each class earns $2,000 and semifinalists earn $500. Along with the purse, winners get a national championship Wally trophy, a championship jacket and more.
“It was a fantastic season in the NHRA Summit Series and we’re extremely excited to see world champions decided in Las Vegas,” said Jim Greenleaf, Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports & Events Manager. “There continues to be incredible growth and participation in this series, extending to the first E.T. Finals in Canada this year and everyone at Summit Racing Equipment is thrilled to be part of this amazing program with so many talented drivers. The new team aspect to this year’s world championship is an added bonus for racers and we look forward to another huge weekend in Las Vegas.”
The festive weekend in Las Vegas includes a first-time team competition, which includes all seven NHRA divisions and a Canadian team. Team points are accumulated by round wins and the winning team earns $2,000. There will also be the opportunity to win a piece of an extra $2,000 in bonus awards on-track during the weekend.
The must-see world championship features a diverse group of drivers competing in many types of vehicles, including dragsters, roadsters, sedans, coupes and motorcycles, offering thrilling action as part of the national event.
It all starts with a welcome dinner on Thursday, Oct. 30, which will also feature a chip draw for the first four positions, who will then call out the remaining drivers to set the first-round matchups.
Special prizes and experiences will be raffled off during the welcome dinner as well, including:
A chance to warm up Daniel Wilkerson’s 12,000-horsepower Funny Car
Joining Clay Millican’s crew and ride along with the crew during a qualifying run
A VIP experience with the Vance & Hines Pro Stock Motorcycle team
A VIP tour of the KB Titan Racing Pro Stock team with Greg Anderson
All finalists will have marquee access during Top Fuel and Funny Car qualifying sessions in Las Vegas, too, along with a parade in front of the grandstands and introductions during the official pre-race ceremonies.
“When it comes to bracket racing within the NHRA, this is the pinnacle,” NHRA Sportsman Manager Jason Galvin said. “To earn a trip to Las Vegas means you were the best of the best in your division, and for the first time, in Canada as well. We look forward to celebrating these racers all weekend, not just the four who will hold the Wally on Sunday, but the other 28 who fought for the right to be here and earned the VIP treatment the NHRA and Summit Racing Equipment will provide over the course of four great days in Las Vegas.”
Summit E.T. Series Champions in 2024 included Zach Meziere (Division 6) in Super Pro, Alvie Merrill (Division 4) in Pro, C.W. Hoefer (Division 7) in Sportsman, James Paulson (Division 5) in Motorcycle and Omar Leon (Division 7) in Street Legal EV.
For more information on the NHRA Summit Racing Series, visit www.nhra.com/sportsman. For more information on NHRA, including the 2025 schedule, visit www.NHRA.com.
2025 NHRA SUMMIT RACING SERIES WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP COMPETITORS
SUPER PRO
Division 1
Matt Witkowski
Division 2
Austin Logan
Division 3
Bob Cireddu
Division 4
Talon Farmer
Division 5
Tim Blatchford
Division 6
Toby Peterson
Division 7
Dennis Paz
Canada
Cody Levasseur
PRO
Division 1
Mike Fornwalt
Division 2
Tim Butler
Division 3
Austin Tewell
Division 4
Jimmy Denham
Division 5
Nick Engler
Division 6
Brian McGinnis
Division 7
Luis Ortiz
Canada
Gianni Cantusci
SPORTSMAN
Division 1
Bill Hakucsa
Division 2
Daniel Salyers
Division 3
Luke wiseman
Division 4
Gage Wilson
Division 5
Grant Pesola
Division 6
Devin Froud
Division 7
Mike Williams
Canada
Dennis Boyko
MOTORCYCLE
Division 1
Mark Schwalm
Division 2
Pablo Gonzalez
Division 3
Michael (MK) Schmalle
Division 4
Robert Sanders
Division 5
Pat Finder
Division 6
Cody Cumpton
Division 7
Jeremy Bates
Canada
Michael Konopacki
About Summit Racing Equipment
Summit Racing Equipment has been the World’s Speed Shop® for 56 years! Summit Racing offers a huge selection of in-stock parts for drag racing like drivetrain and suspension components, safety gear, wheels and tires, and brakes. It also carries tools and shop equipment, plus storage upgrades for your trailer and performance upgrades for your tow vehicle. Summit Racing offers fast ground service shipping to most areas of the country and same-day shipping on in-stock items. Summit Racing has the industry’s top-rated customer service and a full-time technical department to answer your questions. With headquarters in Tallmadge, Ohio, Summit operates distribution and retail stores in Tallmadge, Sparks, NV, McDonough, GA, and Arlington, TX.
Summit Racing Equipment www.summitracing.com 1-800-230-3030
About NHRA
NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 20 national events featuring the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™, NHRA Holley EFI Factory X and Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage NHRA Mountain Motor Pro Stock at select national events. NHRA provides competition opportunities for drivers of all levels in the NHRA Summit Racing Series and NHRA Street Legal™. NHRA also offers the NHRA Jr. Street® program for teens and the Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League® for youth ages 5 to 17. With more than 100 Member Tracks, NHRA allows racers to compete at a variety of locations nationally and internationally. NHRA’s Youth and Education Services® (YES) Program reaches over 30,000 students annually to ignite their interest in automotive and racing related careers. NHRA’s streaming service, NHRA.tv®, allows fans to view all NHRA national events as well as exclusive features of the sport. In addition, NHRA owns and operates three racing facilities: Gainesville Raceway in Florida; Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park; and In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Southern California. For more information, log on to www.NHRA.com, or visit the official NHRA pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
