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HFT Advance | Kansas II

Kansas II Event Info:
Date: Sunday, Sept. 28
Time: 3 p.m. ET
Series: NASCAR Cup Series (NCS)
Location: Kansas City, Kansas
Format: 267 Laps, 400.5 Miles, Stages: 80-165-267
TV: USA
Radio: MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Channel 90)

Weekend Schedule:
Saturday: 10:30 a.m. ET, Xfinity Practice (CW App, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Saturday: 11:35 a.m. ET, Xfinity Qualifying (CW App, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Saturday: 1 p.m. ET, Cup Practice (TruTV, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Saturday: 2:10 p.m. ET, Cup Qualifying (TruTV, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Saturday: 4 p.m. ET, Xfinity Race (CW, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Sunday: 3 p.m. ET, Cup Race (USA, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)

Pace Laps:

  • The NASCAR Cup Series heads to Kansas Speedway this weekend as the track hosts its second race of the 2025 season and the opening race of the Round of 12 in the Cup Series playoffs.
  • Kansas is also the site for the second race in the Round of 12 of the NASCAR Xfinity Series playoffs following a week off.
  • Sam Mayer sits third in the playoff standings with 2066 points, +35 points to the cutline, while Sheldon Creed is in seventh place with 2038 points, +7 above the cutline.
  • Mayer (10.3) holds the second highest average finish among full-time NASCAR Xfinity Series drivers this season, behind only Connor Zilisch (8.3).
  • Mayer has finished inside the top five in five of his previous seven and has tied his career-high with 13 top-five finishes this season (also: 2023).
  • Mayer (7.2) also has the third highest average starting position among full-time NASCAR Xfinity Series drivers this season, behind Zilisch (6.2) Justin Allgaier (6.9).
  • He has started inside the top five in each of his last seven starts dating back to his lone pole of the season at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in July.
  • Creed’s only career Cup Series start came at Kansas in 2023, when he finished 29th while driving the No. 78 for Live Fast Motorsports.

Cole Custer Team Info:
Crew Chief: Aaron Kramer
Partner: Haas/Andy’s

Sheldon Creed Team Info:
Crew Chief: Jonathan Toney
Partner: Ollie’s

Sam Mayer Team Info:
Crew Chief: Jason Trinchere
Partner: Audibel

Custer at Kansas (Cup)
Starts: 8
Wins: —
Top-10s: 1
Poles: —

  • Custer makes his ninth Cup start at Kansas this weekend, where he has a 19.5 average finish. His lone top-10 result came in the fall of 2020 when he finished seventh.
  • His best start was P10 in the spring of 2021, and he boasts a 21.5 average starting position.
  • Custer has also made six NXS starts at Kansas, and is coming off a P2 finish last fall after leading 48 laps.

Creed at Kansas (Xfinity)
Starts: 3
Wins: —
Top-10s: 2
Poles: —

  • Creed is set to make his fourth Xfinity start at Kansas on Saturday, where he is coming off a fifth-place finish in last season’s race. His other top-10 result came in 2023 when he finished third after starting 16th.
  • He has started inside the top 10 in one start – P3 in 2022 – and carries an 11.3 average starting position into the weekend.

Mayer at Kansas (Xfinity)
Starts: 4
Wins: —
Top-10s: 2
Poles: —

  • Mayer is in line for his fifth Xfinity start at Kansas this weekend, coming off a 13th-place finish in last season’s race. His two top-10 finishes in the NXS came in 2021 (8th) and 2022 (9th).
  • His best start was P5 last season, and he holds an average starting position of 9.5.

Where They Stand
Cup Points Standings (41: 33rd): Custer is 33rd in the Cup Series points standings with 380 points heading into Kansas this Sunday.

Xfinity Points Standings (41: 3rd, 00: 7th): Mayer sits third in the Xfinity Series playoff standings with 2066 points, +35 points to the cutline, while Creed is in 7th place with 2038 points, +7 points above the cutline.

St. Louis Advance for the 14th Annual NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals

Tony Stewart & Matt Hagan
Top Fuel | Funny Car
14th Annual NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals

Sept. 26-28 | St. Louis

Event Overview

Friday, Sept. 26 (Nitro Qualifying, streamed live on NHRA.TV)

Nitro qualifying session (Q1): 6 p.m. CDT/7 p.m. EDT
Nitro qualifying session (Q2): 8 p.m. CDT/9 p.m. EDT

Saturday, Sept. 27 (Nitro Qualifying, streamed live on NHRA.TV)

Nitro qualifying session (Q3): 12:15 p.m. CDT/1:15 p.m. EDT
Nitro qualifying session (Q4): 3 p.m. CDT/4 p.m. EDT

Sunday, Sept. 28 (Nitro Eliminations, streamed live on NHRA.TV)

Round 1: 11 a.m. CDT/12 p.m. EDT
Round 2: 1 p.m. CDT/2 p.m. EDT
Semifinals: 2:40 p.m. CDT/3:40 p.m. EDT
Finals: 4:15 p.m. CDT/5:15 p.m. EDT

TV coverage on FS1

Sunday, Sept. 28: Qualifying show recapping Friday and Saturday’s action (1:30 p.m. EDT)
Sunday, Sept. 28: Finals show (3 p.m. EDT)

Notes of Interest

The NHRA Midwest Nationals near St. Louis is the 17th race on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series’ 20-race schedule and it is the third round in the six-race Countdown to the Championship. Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) drivers Tony Stewart (Top Fuel) and Matt Hagan (Funny Car) are both in the Countdown, with 2025 marking Stewart’s second appearance in the NHRA postseason and Hagan’s 13th consecutive appearance.

Stewart is fourth in the Top Fuel standings heading into St. Louis, 68 points behind championship leader Doug Kalitta. Hagan is currently second in the Funny Car championship standings, 79 points behind leader Austin Prock. Hagan is a four-time champion (2011, 2014, 2020 and 2023).

American Rebel Beer is the primary sponsor of both Hagan and Stewart in St. Louis. American Rebel Beer was founded in April of 2024 by American Rebel CEO Andy Ross. American Rebel Beer is All Natural, Crisp, Clean and has a Bold Taste with a Lighter Feel. It does not use corn, rice or other sweeteners typically found in other mass-produced beers. American Rebel Beer is currently offered in 15 states (Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, and Virginia), with additional states being announced soon. You can also find American Rebel in various legendary bars like Kid Rock’s, Tootsies, Honky Tony Central, and many others in the entertainment district in Nashville, as well as retail outlets, venues and music festivals throughout the United States. American Rebel Beer is America’s Patriotic, God-Fearing, Constitution-Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer.

The NHRA Midwest Nationals will be Stewart’s 37th career Top Fuel start and his second at St. Louis. For Hagan, the NHRA Midwest Nationals will be his 369th career Funny Car start and his 16th at the track.

Stewart is seeking his first victory in the NHRA Midwest Nationals, as well as his first No. 1 qualifier at the event. In 2024, Stewart secured the No. 11 qualifying position and ran a 3.755 ET at 323.58 mph in Round 1 of eliminations, which lost to Shawn Reed’s 3.773 ET at 319.29 mph. Stewart’s wife, Leah Pruett, advanced to the Finals in 2023 in the Top Fuel Dragster, defeating Shawn Langdon, Doug Kalitta and Steve Torrence, before losing to Clay Millican in the Finals.

The Regular Season Champion in Top Fuel (Stewart clinched the title in Indianapolis) has won the overall championship five of the last eight years. No. 1 seeds have won 31 of the 68 series championships in the Countdown Era. Tony is seeking his first win light at St. Louis and is trying to become the 28th different Top Fuel driver to win a Countdown event.

Hagan enters the NHRA Midwest Nationals with two wins in 2021 and 2023. In 2021, his 3.933 ET, 333.49 mph run defeated Bob Tasca III (3.967 ET at 329.99 mph). In 2023, Hagan’s 3.991 ET at 324.90 mph defeated Ron Capps’ 4.025 ET, 306.88 mph run. Hagan has three No. 1 qualifiers at St. Louis, which came in 2013 (4.001 ET at 320.20 mph), 2015 (3.883 ET at 330.47 mph) and 2021 (3.875 ET at 327.03 mph). Hagan has gone to the finals six times at St. Louis, with runner-up finishes in 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2020. After posting a 7-10 record with no wins in his first 10 starts at St. Louis, Hagan has raced in the final round three of the last five years.

Hagan is coming off of a No. 1 qualifying position at the NHRA Four-Wide Carolina Nationals in Charlotte, the 54th of his career and second of the season (NHRA Sonoma Nationals was the first).

Tony Stewart, Driver of the American Rebel Beer Dodge//SRT Top Fuel Dragster

St. Louis marks three Countdown weekends in a row for the American Rebel Beer crew. What momentum does that give you?

“We always have a fun weekend when Andy Ross from American Rebel is with us. He’s an awesome cheerleader that cares about our teams as much as we do. To have him and the large amount of guests he’s bringing, we’re proud of that. We’re having three grueling weeks in a row. I like it because that’s what I’m used to in NASCAR, so you just grind it out. We’ll get through St. Louis, then it gives both the Top Fuel and Funny Car teams time to regroup to get ready for the last three races. You’re never out until they say you’re mathematically out of it. We’re still in a decent spot right now, but we have our work to do.”

Matt Hagan, Driver of the American Rebel Beer Dodge//SRT Hellcat Funny Car

You’re coming off a final-round appearance at the NHRA Four-Wide Carolina Nationals and St. Louis marks three Countdown weekends in a row. What momentum does that give you?

“We are now second in points and within striking distance. (Austin) Prock and his JFR team is very tough. The kid cuts a good light, and they run really strong. We need to keep doing what we do and not worry about anyone else. If we run the racetrack as hard as we can, and we look at what is in front of us, I know we can win. That has always been my thinking that we just go race the track in front of us. I’m just proud of our TSR crew guys since they have worked so hard in recent weeks. We have been through some tough explosions the last few weeks, but I know we are ready to put that American Rebel Beer Dodge Hellcat back in the winner’s circle at St. Louis next weekend.”

Ford Going for Second Straight Playoff Win This Weekend in Kansas

KANSAS 2

Saturday, September 27 – NASCAR Xfinity Series, 4 p.m. ET (CW)
Saturday, September 28 – NASCAR Cup Series, 3 p.m. ET (USA)

It’s the middle race in the Round of 12 for both the NASCAR Cup and NASCAR Xfinity Series as Kansas Speedway serves as the host venue. Ford’s Ryan Blaney has already clinched a spot in the Round of 8 after his Cup victory last weekend in New Hampshire while defending champ Joey Logano and Austin Cindric remain in contention. After a week off, the Xfinity Series returns with all three Ford drivers – Sam Mayer, Harrison Burton, and Sheldon Creed – above the cut line.

BLANEY HEADING TO THE ROUND OF 8

Ryan Blaney clinched a spot in the Round of 8 after winning last weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. It marked the continuation of a streak that has seen the 2023 champion finish eighth or better in nine of the last 10 races, including a pair of victories (Daytona and New Hampshire). Blaney has now won three races this season, which matches a personal best he’s done three other times (2021, 2023, and 2024).

LOGANO’S KANSAS PLAYOFF SUCCESS

Joey Logano will be looking for his fourth career win at Kansas Speedway this weekend, which would match a personal best as he has four at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and Phoenix Raceway. He won for the first time at Kansas in 2014, and then did it again one year later in a well-documented battle with Matt Kenseth that resulted in contact as the two entered turn one with five laps to go. That controversial finish marked Logano’s second straight playoff win and led to a sweep of the round as he took the checkered flag the following week at Talladega. His last Kansas win came in 2020 when he led the final 45 laps to beat Kevin Harvick across the finish line and clinch a spot in the Championship 4.

KESELOWSKI AND KANSAS

Brad Keselowski has won at 17 different racetracks during his NASCAR Cup Series career, including twice at Kansas Speedway. In 31 career Cup Series starts, the Michigan native has a pair of victories (2011 and 2019), seven top-5 and 14 top-10 finishes. He’s led at least one lap in three of the last four events and is looking to rebound from a crash that took him out of the spring race at Kansas after 194 laps.

FORD DRIVERS IN THE CUP PLAYOFFS

DRIVER – POINTS POSITION

Ryan Blaney – New Hampshire Winner (Clinched Round of 8)

Joey Logano – 6th (+24 above the cut line)

Austin Cindric – 10th (-19 below the cut line)

Note: Top 8 advance after Charlotte

FORD PLAYOFF DRIVERS AT KANSAS

Joey Logano: 32 starts, 3 wins, 9 top-5, 13 top-10

Ryan Blaney: 21 starts, 0 wins, 5 top-5, 9 top-10

Austin Cindric: 8 starts, 0 wins, 0 top-5, 0 top-10

RYAN BLANEY: “It’s been a long time since we’ve run a traditional mile-and-a-half and you hope that what we’ve learned at Charlotte and the previous mile-and-a-halves you apply. It’s the first time you’re gonna try like, ‘Maybe we should go down this path and we think it’s better.’ That’s what racing is. You think of directions that are better and you talk through them and you sim them and all of that stuff and then you have to make your decision. That could be good or it could be bad. That’s the beauty of showing up and you’ve got what you got. We’ll see where we stack up. I don’t really know what to expect, to be honest with you. It’s been a while and things could be massively different than what you saw at Charlotte, or it could be the exact same. I don’t know.”

MAYER LOOKS TO CONTINUE TOP FIVE ROLL

Sam Mayer is coming off a third-place finish two weeks ago in the playoff opener at Bristol Motor Speedway, continuing a streak that has seen him finish fifth or better in five of the last seven races. Included in that is a victory at Iowa and a pair of runner-up finishes at Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Watkins Glen International. Overall, Mayer has 13 top-5 and 16 top-10 efforts this season.

FORD DRIVERS IN THE XFINITY PLAYOFFS

DRIVER – POINTS POSITION

Sam Mayer – 3rd (+35 above the cut line)

Harrison Burton – 5th (+9)

Sheldon Creed – 7th (+7)

Note: Top 8 advance after Charlotte

FORD PLAYOFF DRIVERS AT KANSAS

Sam Mayer: 4 starts, 0 wins, 0 top-10, 2 top-10

Sheldon Creed: 3 starts, 0 wins, 2 top-5, 2 top-10

Harrison Burton: 4 starts, 0 wins, 1 top-5, 1 top-10

FORD NASCAR CUP SERIES WINNERS

AT KANSAS

2005 – Mark Martin

2007 – Greg Biffle

2010 – Greg Biffle

2012 – Matt Kenseth (2)

2014 – Joey Logano (2)

2015 – Joey Logano (2)

2018 – Kevin Harvick (1)

2019 – Brad Keselowski (1)

2020 – Joey Logano (2)

FORD NASCAR XFINITY SERIES WINNERS

AT KANSAS

2001 – Jeff Green

2002 – Jeff Burton

2012 – Ricky Stenhouse Jr.

2020 – Chase Briscoe

The Ford Mustang, celebrating its 61st anniversary in 2025, is the world’s best selling sports car. It is also one of the planet’s most popular race cars. With Mustang-based race cars competing in international sports car competition (GT3 and GT4), NASCAR, NHRA, Formula Drift, in Australian Supercars, at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and in its own bespoke one-make series – Mustang Cup and Mustang Challenge – the platform has an unprecedented global reach. This weekend, 21 Mustang race cars are scheduled to race across all disciplines. Learn more at FordRacing.com.

RFK Advance | Kansas II

Kansas II Event Info:
Date: Sunday, Sept. 28
Time: 3 p.m. ET
Series: NASCAR Cup Series (NCS)
Location: Kansas City, Kansas
Format: 267 Laps, 400.5 Miles, Stages: 80-165-267
TV: USA
Radio: MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Channel 90)

Weekend Schedule:
Saturday: 1 p.m. ET, Cup Practice (TruTV, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Saturday: 2:10 p.m. ET, Cup Qualifying (TruTV, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Sunday: 3 p.m. ET, Cup Race (USA, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)

Pace Laps:

  • The NASCAR Cup Series heads to Kansas Speedway this weekend as the track hosts its second race of the 2025 season and the opening race of the Round of 12 in the Cup Series playoffs.
  • Jack Roush has four wins in the Cup Series at Kansas and nine overall, the most recent in 2012.
  • Chris Buescher is tied for the third highest average starting position (12.2) in the Cup Series this season, anchored by 11 starts inside the top 10.
  • Buescher is also one of eight drivers with 15+ top-10 results this season, and has an average finish of 13.8 which is the sixth highest among Cup drivers.
  • Keselowski has posted five top-10 finishes over his last 10 races, including three in the top five, with an average finish of 13.3 dating back to Dover.
  • Kansas is one of 12 tracks that Keselowski has driven to victory lane multiple times at during his Cup Series career.
  • Ryan Preece has set Cup Series career highs this season in top-fives (3) and top-10s (10), and has finished inside the top-20 in 14 of his last 16 starts.

6 Team Info:
Driver: Brad Keselowski
Crew Chief: Jeremy Bullins
Partner: Solomon Plumbing

17 Team Info:
Driver: Chris Buescher
Crew Chief: Scott Graves
Partner: Body Guard

60 Team Info:
Driver: Ryan Preece
Crew Chief: Derrick Finley
Partner: Kroger / Minute Rice

Keselowski at Kansas
Starts: 31
Wins: 2 (2011, 2019)
Top-10s: 14
Poles: 2 (2015, 2021)

  • Keselowski makes his 32nd start at Kansas this weekend, a track where he carries a 13.3 average finish. He led laps in both Kansas races a season ago, and took home an 37th-place finish in the spring despite running in the top five most of the afternoon.
  • Keselowski has an average starting position of 13.2 with 17 starts inside the top-10. He most recently qualified 36th in the spring, and has two career poles (2015, 2021) in Kansas.
  • He also made a combined 10 starts in the Xfinity and Truck Series with one win and five combined top-10s.

Buescher at Kansas
Starts: 19
Wins: —
Top-10s: 5
Poles: —

  • Buescher makes his 20th start at Kansas this weekend, a track that he has five top-10s at with a best finish of second last spring. He led 53 laps in that race in what stands as the closest finish ever in NASCAR history.
  • He’s coming off an eighth-place finish in the spring race earlier this season after qualifying on the front row.
  • Dating back to the 2022 fall event Buescher has qualified 14th or better in five of six races, with an average starting position of 18.5.
  • Buescher made three Xfinity starts at Kansas from 2013-15 with a best finish of sixth (2015).

Preece at Kansas
Starts: 11
Wins: —
Top-10s: 1
Poles: —

  • Preece is set for his 12th Cup start at Kansas this weekend, where he posted a career-best finish of seventh at the track earlier this spring.
  • Preece holds a 27.5 average starting position at Kansas, with a best career start of 12th in the spring of 2021.
  • Preece also made two Xfinity starts at Kansas, along with one truck start.

RFK Historically at Kansas
Cup Wins: 4 (Mark Martin, 2005; Greg Biffle, 2007, 2010; Matt Kenseth, 2012)

  • Follow the Yellow Brick Road: Overall, RFK has started 190 races across the three national series, earning nine wins, 42 top-five finishes, 80 top-10 finishes and has an overall average finish of 15th.
  • Winning at Kansas: RFK swept both the NASCAR Xfinity Series and NCS races at Kansas in the fall of 2012 with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Matt Kenseth. Stenhouse became the sixth driver to win at the track for the organization via his Xfinity victory. NASCAR Hall of Famer Mark Martin earned RFK’s first NCS win at Kansas in 2005 and former driver Greg Biffle bested the 1.5-mile track in 2007 and 2010. RFK’s first overall win at Kansas came in 2002 via Jeff Burton in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. Three drivers (Jon Wood in 2003, Carl Edwards in 2004 and Erik Darnell in 2007) have won in the NCWTS at Kansas for RFK.
  • Tale of the Tape: RFK has started 121 NCS races at Kansas, recording four victories, 21 top-five finishes, 40 top-10 finishes, an average finish of 16.6 and has led 1051 laps. Kenseth earned the most recent victory at Kansas in the fall of 2012.

RFK Kansas Wins

2002 Burton NXS
2003 Wood Truck
2004 Edwards Truck
2005 Martin Cup
2007 Biffle Cup
2007 Darnell Truck
2010 Biffle Cup
2012-2 Kenseth Cup
2012 Stenhouse NXS

Last Time Out & Where They Stand
Loudon: Preece 14th; Buescher 18th; Keselowski 23rd.

Points Standings (17: 17th, 60: 18th, 6: 20th): Buescher and Preece sit 17th and 18th in points, respectively, while Keselowski remained 20th in the standings, just eight points behind Ty Gibbs.

Mobile Car Detailing: The Future of Automotive Care for Busy Drivers

Keeping a car looking sharp has always been part of responsible ownership, but finding the time for it is another story. Between long workdays, family commitments, and the daily grind of commuting, many drivers struggle to fit vehicle care into their schedule. That is where mobile car detailing comes in. Instead of making a trip to a workshop, customers can now book online and have the service arrive at their doorstep. Companies like Schmicko’s Sydney mobile car detailing are proving how well this works, combining professional results with unmatched convenience.

Why Mobile Car Detailing is on the Rise

Traditional car washes and detailing shops have always been around, but they come with one big downside: time. Even a quick wash can mean sitting in traffic, waiting in line, and losing part of your day. Mobile detailing removes that hassle. A trained technician arrives at your home, office, or fleet yard with everything needed to restore your vehicle.

The rise of on-demand services in other industries has set the stage for this shift. Just as people order food or book rides from their phone, car owners now expect the same level of ease when it comes to automotive care. Mobile detailing is the natural answer.

What Makes Mobile Detailing Different

Mobile car detailing is far more than a simple wash. Packages often include exterior cleaning, interior vacuuming, leather conditioning, polishing, and advanced paint protection such as ceramic or graphene coatings.

Is mobile detailing as good as a workshop detail?

Yes. Mobile detailers use the same professional-grade tools and products found in top workshops, including dual-action polishers and high-quality coatings. The only difference is location. Instead of you driving to them, they bring the service to your driveway or workplace.

Professionals also carry steam cleaners that sanitize interiors with minimal water and biodegradable chemicals designed to protect your car and the environment. Compared to DIY methods, the finish lasts longer and looks noticeably better.

A Smart Fit for Busy City Drivers

Time is the most valuable resource for today’s drivers, and mobile detailing is designed to save it. For professionals balancing long hours, parents with family responsibilities, or fleet managers overseeing multiple vehicles, having the service come to you makes perfect sense.

Do mobile detailers bring their own water and power?

Reputable operators do. Vans are equipped with water tanks, generators, and all the necessary tools. Customers don’t need to provide anything — the service is fully self-contained.

Sydney is a prime example of where this model works best. With heavy traffic, limited parking, and busy schedules, traditional workshop visits are often impractical. Schmicko has built its reputation by solving this exact problem. With more than 700 five-star reviews, it has become a trusted name for quality and convenience across the city.

Eco-Friendly Car Care Is The New Normal

Sustainability is now a major driver in the car care industry. Many mobile detailers use waterless or low-water wash systems that clean effectively while conserving resources. According to Future Market Insights, the mobile car wash and detailing sector is booming due to rising consumer demand for convenient, eco-friendly options such as waterless car wash technology and biodegradable cleaning products. The global market is projected to reach approximately USD 126.3 billion in 2025, nearly doubling to USD 282.9 billion by 2035, reflecting a strong Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.4% during this period. Growth drivers include adoption of green cleaning methods, app-enabled booking platforms, urbanization, and investments in AI-powered scheduling and sustainable cleaning solutions.

Are eco-friendly cleaning methods effective?

Yes. Waterless and low-water wash products are designed with lubricants and biodegradable compounds that lift dirt safely. Paired with microfiber cloths, they prevent scratches while delivering a spotless finish. These methods meet both environmental standards and customer expectations.

Why Professional Care Outshines DIY

It is tempting to think a bucket of water and a sponge will get the job done, but DIY washes often lead to swirl marks, missed spots, and even scratches when the wrong products are used. Paint correction and protective coatings require training and experience to apply correctly.

How much does mobile detailing cost compared to a regular wash?

Mobile detailing usually costs more than a drive-through wash but less than high-end workshop services. The real value comes from professional-grade results, time saved, and the convenience of not having to leave home.

Professional detailers know how to treat different paint types, leather trims, and delicate surfaces. The result is not just a cleaner car but one that maintains its value and stands out on the road.

The Future of Car Care

Mobile detailing is not just about today’s convenience — it reflects where the industry is heading. Subscription packages are becoming popular, allowing drivers to keep their cars in top condition year-round without needing to rebook.

Operators are also expanding into add-ons like dash cam installations, odour removal, headlight restoration, and even paint protection film.

Can I book a regular detailing schedule?

Yes. Many companies now offer weekly, monthly, or quarterly plans. These subscriptions give drivers predictable costs and peace of mind, knowing their vehicles are always taken care of.

Technology will also push this industry forward. App-based bookings, cashless payments, and even AI-driven scheduling are becoming standard. As vehicles themselves get smarter, with sensors detecting dirt and wear, mobile detailers may soon respond directly to service alerts from the car.

Conclusion

Mobile car detailing is more than just a convenience. It is a smarter, eco-friendlier, and more efficient way to care for vehicles in a busy world. For drivers, it means saving time while protecting one of their most valuable assets. For businesses, it represents a growing opportunity to meet customers where they are.Companies like Schmicko in Sydney show how well this model works, combining digital booking with hands-on expertise to deliver results people can trust. To explore how this approach is shaping the future of car care, visi

CORVETTE RACING AT FUJI: Big Hopes in Far East

Title challenge for TF Sport Corvettes enters critical stage with two races left

DETROIT (September 23, 2025) – A return to the podium – hopefully on the top step – is on the mind TF Sport as the Corvette Z06 GT3.R program heads to Fuji Speedway for the Six Hours of Fuji and the next-to-last round for the FIA World Endurance Championship.

Title hopes remain alive for both of the team’s Corvettes, which sit third and sixth in the LMGT3 Drivers and Teams standings with 65 points available across the final two races.

Even better is that each lineup features at least one driver who has won a race at the 2.835-mile, 16-turn Fuji Speedway circuit in the past. That’s even more encouraging considering the pace that the TF Sport Corvettes showed a year ago plus the performance of the Corvette at Fuji earlier this year – including a race win and pole position in GT World Challenge Asia competition.

No. 33 TF Sport Corvette Z06 GT3.R

The trio of Daniel Juncadella, Jonny Edgar and Ben Keating are third in the Drivers Championship and 29 points out of the points lead. A season-opening victory at Qatar remains the group’s only podium finish of the season but the pace of the No. 33 Corvette has been strong the last three races.

Experience at Fuji varies between the three teammates. Edgar won’t just make his first start at Fuji… he’ll also make his first trip to Japan. Juncadella made his Fuji debut a year ago in a TF Sport Corvette that was running as high as fifth in class before a couple of mechanical issues forced the car’s retirement inside the final hour.

Keating’s past success at Fuji is one that TF Sport hopes will continue for this season. He’s finished on the class podium in each of his three previous race starts including a win with TF Sport in 2022. His last race at the circuit came two years ago in a Corvette C8.R, and he finished second in the race as part of his GTE Am championship-winning season.

No. 81 TF Sport Corvette Z06 GT3.R

Charlie Eastwood, Rui Andrade and Tom Van Rompuy are back for their second shot at a race win or podium at Fuji in the No. 81 Corvette. Van Rompuy qualified second and led twice in his stint before Andrade continued the strong run at the front.

Eastwood was at wheel late and charging toward a podium or race win when he was hit and spun by a Hypercar with more than hour left. He made up seven spots in that span to fourth at the end. Like Keating, Eastwood has previously won at Fuji with TF Sport but back in 2019. Andrade captured victory in LMP2 in the 2023 race and made his first GT-class start at Fuji last year with TF Sport.

The No. 81 Corvette finished second at Le Mans and third at Sāo Paulo earlier this year before finishing out of the points last time out at COTA. There’s still positive momentum within the 81 Corvette lineup as Eastwood and Andrade were part of a third-place class finish at Silverstone in the most recent round of the European Le Mans Series.

The Six Hours of Fuji scheduled for 11 a.m. JST Sunday and 10 p.m. ET Saturday. Full, live television coverage is available on the MotorTrend in the United States. Live streaming coverage of Free Practice 3, qualifying and the race will be available on the FIA WEC app and the MAX app in the United States.

TF SPORT PRE-EVENT QUOTES

DANI JUNCADELLA, NO. 33 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “We’re coming to the last two rounds of the year so it’s going to be key to score some big points. We’re still in the hunt for the championship. We’re a little on the back foot because we are a few points behind in third. But I believe we will have a good chance in Fuji. It was a very strong weekend last year in terms of pace. We couldn’t maximize it unfortunately because of an issue on the first pit stop. I love the track, I love the Japanese fans. They’re always very passionate about racing. Let’s see if we can score some big points to be in the hunt for Bahrain.”

JONNY EDGAR, NO. 33 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “It will be my first time in Fuji and first time in Japan. Last year the pace in the Corvette was pretty strong for the team, so that’s a good sign. I’m looking forward to driving the track for the first time. I’ve done it on a simulator before and it looks like a pretty cool track. The simulator helps to get a general idea of the flow of a track. Figuring out the bumps, some lines and curbs can take some time. It definitely helped at COTA and after a couple of laps I felt pretty comfortable. Hopefully I can do the same at Fuji as I learn a new track.”

BEN KEATING, NO. 33 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I always enjoy going to Japan and racing at Fuji. I’ve never finished off the podium there so I’m excited to go back in the Corvette after a year away and three years after winning there with TF Sport. So this is an event that has been very good to me. Above all the results and success, what makes this event and trip special are the people of Japan and the fans at the racetrack. It’s an incredibly friendly and respectful atmosphere. I hope we can give the ones that are cheering for the Corvette a good result and gain ground in the championship.”

CHARLIE EASTWOOD, NO. 81 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “Fuji was a really good track for us last year. The Corvette felt phenomenal. We’ll be back on the medium tire for this one, which I think suits us a little bit better than the hard. We’re looking for a big result. In the last two races we really need to finish on a high to put a squeeze on the championship side of things and finish as good as we can.”

TOM VAN ROMPUY, NO. 81 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “We had good pace last year, especially in the last sector, and I think our car should be strong in the middle sector as well. The characteristics of the track suit the Corvette. We were in a good place and in contention last year so I hope we are in the same position as last year to start the race, and I can only hope for a strong result in Fuji.”

2025 FIA World Endurance Championship Points

LMGT3 Drivers Standings

  1. Riccardo Pera/Richard Lietz/Ryan Hardwick – 95
  2. Alessio Rovera/Francois Heriau/Simon Mann – 76
  3. Ben Keating/Daniel Juncadella/Jonny Edgar – 66
  4. Clemens Schmid/Jose Maria Lopez/Petru Umbrarescu – 57
  5. Ian James/Mattia Drudi/Zacharie Robichon – 57
  6. Charlie Eastwood/Rui Andrade/Tom Van Rompuy – 56

LMGT3 Teams Standings

  1. No. 92 Manthey 1ST Phorm – 95
  2. No. 21 Vista AF Corse – 76
  3. No. 33 TF Sport – 66
  4. No. 87 Akkodis ASP Team – 57
  5. Heart of Racing Team – 57
  6. No. 81 TF Sport – 56

CORVETTE RACING AT Fuji: By the Numbers

  • 1: One manufacturer, one brand and one race program for 26-plus years – Chevrolet, Corvette and Corvette Racing
  • 1: Number of wins at Fuji this year for the Corvette Z06 GT3.R. Ben Green and Prince Jefri Ibrahim won for Johor Motorsports Racing earlier in GT World Challenge Asia
  • 2: Number of TF Sport Corvettes that advanced to Hyperpole last year in LMGT3. Tom Van Rompuy qualified on the outside of the front row in the No. 81 Z06 GT3.R
  • 2: Pole positions for Corvette Racing entries at Fuji since 2023. Ben Keating claimed pole for the Six Hours of Fuji in 2023 in a Corvette C8.R, and Ben Green was on pole for GTWC Asia Race 2 earlier this year for JMR
  • 4: Previous appearances at the Six Hours of Fuji for the Corvette Racing program
  • 13: Victories so far this year for the Corvette Z06 GT3.R
  • 13: Hours difference between Fuji and Detroit in the Eastern Time Zone. That means this weekend’s race will begin Sunday morning in Japan but late Saturday night Eastern Time
  • 14: Manufacturer Championships for Chevrolet and Corvette Racing since 2001
  • 32: Tracks at which Corvette Racing has won races – Baltimore, Charlotte Motor Speedway, COTA, Canadian Tire Motorsport Park/Mosport, Chang International Circuit (Thailand), Daytona, Detroit, Fuji, Houston, Imola, Laguna Seca, Le Mans, Lime Rock, Long Beach, Lusail International Circuit (Qatar), Sepang International Circuit (Malaysia), Miami, Mid-Ohio, Monza, Portimão, Portland, Road America, Road Atlanta, Sebring, Sonoma, St. Petersburg, Texas, Trois Rivieres, Utah, VIR, Washington DC and Watkins Glen
  • 35: Hours of racing left in the Corvette Z06 GT3.R season covering WEC, ELMS, IMSA and GT World Challenge America, Europe and Asia
  • 39: Number of drivers to win races in Corvette Racing entries since 1999. The latest to join the list was Ross Chouest in GT America at Road America
  • 72: Years since Corvette was introduced to the world on Jan. 17, 1953 in New York City. A total of 300 cars were produced that year
  • 73: Number of drivers in Corvette Racing entries since 1999. The latest to join the list was Konsta Lappalainen for Johor Motorsports Racing at the Suzuka 1000K
  • 151: Victories worldwide for Corvette Racing – 118 in IMSA, nine at Le Mans, four in the FIA WEC, 13 in GT World Challenge America, three in GT World Challenge Asia, two in GT America and one in the European Le Mans Series
  • 350: Event starts by Corvette Racing since 1999
  • 452,308.80: Total number of racing miles completed by Corvette Racing since its inception. To put that in perspective, Corvette Racing is more than halfway to the distance traveled by Apollo 13 – the longest manned spaceflight in history: 622,268 miles. That means Corvette Racing has raced to the moon and more than halfway back!

Corvette Racing at Fuji Speedway (wins in bold)

2022: No. 64 Corvette C8.R: Tommy Milner/Nick Tandy – 5th in GTE Pro

2023: No. 33 Corvette C8.R: Nicky Catsburg/Ben Keating/Nico Varrone –2nd in GTE Am

2024: No. 81 Corvette Z06 GT3.R: Charlie Eastwood/Rui Andrade/Tom Van Rompuy – 4th in LMGT3

No. 82 Corvette Z06 GT3.R: Daniel Juncadella/Sebastien Baud/Hiroshi Koizumi –18th in LMGT3 (DNF)

2025 GTWC Asia: No. 66 Corvette Z06 GT3.R: Prince Abu Bakar Ibrahim/Jordan Love – 3rd, 11th in Pro-Am

No. 99 Corvette Z06 GT3.R: Prince Jefri Ibrahim/Ben Green – 6th, 1st in Pro-Am (Green pole Race 2)

Team Chevy high-resolution racing photos are available for editorial use.

About General Motors

General Motors (NYSE:GM) is driving the future of transportation, leveraging advanced technology to build safer, smarter, and lower emission cars, trucks, and SUVs. GM’s Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands offer a broad portfolio of innovative gasoline-powered vehicles and the industry’s widest range of EVs, as we move to an all-electric future. Learn more at GM.com.

Nerea Martí joins Team AlUla for E1 in Lagos

Team AlUla Championed by LeBron James has signed Nerea Martí for the upcoming UIM E1 World Championship presented by PIF (E1) race in Lagos, Nigeria (4-5 October).

Regular pilots Catie Munnings and Rusty Wyatt are unable to compete in Lagos due to previous commitments so Team AlUla has recruited Spanish racing driver Nerea Martí and Norwegian powerboat racer Andrè Solvang to step in for the penultimate round of the 2025 E1 season.

Nerea Martí began karting at the age of nine, winning regional karting championships before transitioning to the Spanish F4 Championship in 2019. From 2021-2022, Nerea competed in W Series before transitioning to the F1 Academy for the next two years with Campos Racing where she finished fourth in the overall standings. In 2025, Nerea was selected for BMW’s new customer racing development programme, the BMW M Racing Academy. She is also competing for BMW Spain in the Iberian Supercars (GT4 sub-class) series and took the win at the latest race in Valencia.

Lagos marks E1’s African debut with the all-electric E1 RaceBirds competing for outright victory on the Lagos Lagoon in the heart of the city. The E1 Lagos GP is dedicated to positioning Nigeria’s largest city as a premier destination for sustainable innovation and international sporting events.

In the overall standings, Team AlUla is currently sixth – just two points adrift of Westbrook Racing in fifth position. With three top five finishes including one podium result already this season, Team AlUla is eager to break into the top five leaderboard with two rounds and 90 points remaining.

Nerea Martí: “This is a new challenge in my racing career, and I can’t wait to face it. I’ve always raced on asphalt, so doing it on water will definitely be something thrilling. I already felt that excitement during the licence tests, and now I’m really looking forward to competing against the rest of the drivers in what I’m confident will be a great weekend for me and for the whole team. I also want to thank Team AlUla Championed by LeBron James for giving me this opportunity to compete in E1. I’ve always been committed to electric racing — it truly excites me. I already had the chance to drive a Formula E car, and now being able to race an E1 raceboat on a competition weekend will be an unforgettable experience.”

John Marlow, Team AlUla Co-Team Principal: “We’re really pleased to welcome André and Nerea to Team AlUla for the E1 Lagos GP. Nerea’s motorsport pedigree gives her a great foundation for this new challenge. With Lagos being a brand-new venue for everyone, it levels the playing field and makes for an exciting weekend ahead. After a couple of months away from racing, we’re looking forward to getting back on the water with a strong line-up.”

Barny Whitwham, Team AlUla Co-Team Principal: “With Catie and Rusty unable to compete in Lagos due to prior race commitments, we’ve secured what we believe to be an exciting line-up for this event with Nerea and Andrè. Nerea brings a wealth of single-seater and circuit racing experience. As a young team, we can only benefit from having these new perspectives and feedback. We only have a limited time on water before their first competitive E1 sessions, but it’s already clear that they are both highly professional and talented athletes and we’re working hard to deliver a strong weekend.”

About Team AlUla Championed by LeBron James

Team AlUla Championed by LeBron James was officially launched in January 2025, with the squad making its competitive debut the same month in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – the season-opener to this year’s UIM E1 World Championship presented by PIF.

Rusty Wyatt (Canada) and Catie Munnings (UK) have been enlisted to drive for the team throughout the season, the duo sharing piloting duties on the all-electric E1 RaceBird. AlUla – an ancient oasis city in Saudi Arabia with rich cultural landscapes and breathtaking landscapes – is the team’s title partner.

American professional basketball player LeBron James is the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and his entry into the E1 Series extends his thirst for competition. The team adds to his expansive investment portfolio across sport and entertainment which includes stakes in Fenway Sports Group, Beats by Dre, PGA Tour Enterprises and Liverpool FC.

Team AlUla Championed by LeBron James is led by Co-Team Principals John Marlow and Barny Whitwham, who have a combined 30 years’ experience working in commercial and technical roles across blue chip organisations, Formula 1 and World Rally Championship motorsport teams. They are joined by a crew with equally strong sporting, technical and partnerships prowess across global motorsport and sports categories.

For more information, please visit www.teamalula.com

10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Fleet Repair Service Provider

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

When managing a fleet of trucks, trailers, or heavy equipment, keeping your vehicles operational and compliant is not optional. You need a service provider who can ensure your fleet remains safe, reliable, and productive. That is where Fleet Repair Services come into play. Choosing the right partner can dramatically reduce downtime, save costs, and simplify compliance. 

However, not all providers offer the same level of service. Asking the right questions upfront helps you make an informed decision. Here are ten essential questions you should ask before hiring a fleet repair service provider.

  1. Are You Able to Provide On-Site Services?

Time is money in fleet management. Every hour a truck sits idle is lost revenue. Therefore, it is critical to know if your potential service provider can perform on-site maintenance and repairs. On-site service means your vehicles do not have to travel to a shop, saving time and avoiding towing costs. Ask specifically if they can handle preventive maintenance, emergency repairs, and DOT inspections at your yard or job site.

Providers who come to you demonstrate flexibility and efficiency. Their ability to bring diagnostic tools and certified technicians directly to your fleet ensures minimal disruption.

  1. What Types of Vehicles and Equipment Do You Service?

Fleet types vary across industries. You might operate heavy-duty trucks, trailers, construction equipment, or specialty vehicles. Ensure the service provider has experience with your specific fleet. Inquire about their certifications and expertise in diesel engines, hydraulics, suspension systems, brakes, and electrical systems.

A provider familiar with your fleet type will troubleshoot issues faster This will reduce downtime and improve vehicle longevity. Do not assume general experience is enough; technical expertise matters.

  1. How Do You Handle Preventive Maintenance?

Preventive maintenance (PM) is a cornerstone of fleet reliability. Ask the service provider about their PM programs. Do they offer scheduled inspections, fluid checks, brake tests, and engine diagnostics? How often do they recommend maintenance for your fleet type?

A robust PM program reduces breakdowns, extends vehicle life, and helps you avoid costly emergency repairs. Ensure the provider can tailor a PM schedule to your fleet’s operational needs.

  1. Can You Ensure Regulatory Compliance?

DOT and ANSI regulations are strict. Non-compliance can lead to fines, penalties, and safety risks. Ask how the service provider manages inspections and certifications. Do they perform DOT truck inspections, ANSI bucket or boom inspections, or any industry-specific safety checks?

A compliant fleet is not just about avoiding fines. It demonstrates professionalism and prioritizes the safety of your drivers and the public. Confirm that inspection reports are thorough, accurate, and delivered promptly.

  1. What Is Your Response Time for Emergency Repairs?

Breakdowns are unpredictable. Knowing how quickly a service provider can respond is vital. Ask about their emergency dispatch services and response time commitments. Can they reach your location within an hour or two? Do they have mobile units equipped for complex repairs?

Prompt response prevents prolonged downtime, keeps deliveries on schedule, and avoids costly towing. A reliable provider should have a clear protocol for emergencies and communicate updates in real-time.

  1. Do You Have Certified Technicians and Advanced Diagnostics?

The quality of repair work depends on the skill of the technicians and the tools they use. Ask about the certifications and training of the mechanics. Are they certified in diesel repair, electrical systems, hydraulics, or other relevant areas?

Additionally, inquire about diagnostic capabilities. Advanced diagnostic tools allow providers to identify hidden issues quickly. This ensures repairs are precise, efficient, and done right the first time.

  1. How Transparent Are Your Pricing and Billing Practices?

Unexpected costs can disrupt your budget. Ask for clarity on pricing structures. Do they offer flat rates, hourly rates, or variable pricing depending on services? Are parts, labor, and diagnostic fees clearly itemized?

A transparent provider avoids surprises and helps you forecast maintenance expenses accurately. It is also worth asking if they integrate billing with your fleet management software for easy tracking and reporting.

  1. Can You Provide References or Case Studies?

Reputation matters. Request references from other fleet managers or case studies demonstrating past performance. Ask how the provider handled large fleets, emergency situations, or complex repairs.

Positive testimonials and proven results reflect reliability, professionalism, and expertise. A provider with strong references is more likely to meet your expectations consistently.

  1. Do You Offer a Dedicated Account Manager or Fleet Support?

Managing multiple vehicles requires clear communication. Ask if the provider assigns a dedicated account manager. This person coordinates services, ensures schedules are met, and acts as a single point of contact for questions or concerns.

A dedicated manager simplifies operations, improves response times, and ensures accountability. It is especially important for larger fleets with multiple service needs and locations.

  1. How Do You Minimize Downtime and Maximize Fleet Productivity?

Ultimately, the goal of any fleet repair service is to keep your vehicles running efficiently. Ask about strategies they use to reduce downtime. Do they offer flexible scheduling, mobile repairs, and fast turnaround times? How do they prioritize urgent repairs without compromising routine maintenance?

Providers who actively focus on uptime demonstrate an understanding of your business priorities. They work with you to optimize fleet performance, rather than just completing isolated repairs.

Conclusion

Selecting the right fleet repair service provider requires careful consideration. By asking these ten questions, you ensure that your provider is reliable, skilled, and aligned with your operational needs. On-site capabilities, preventive maintenance programs, regulatory compliance, certified technicians, emergency support, transparent pricing, references, dedicated account management, and strategies to minimize downtime are all essential factors.Your fleet is an investment. Choosing a knowledgeable, responsive, and efficient provider like Mobile Wrench Fleet helps protect that investment. They specialize in on-site diesel repair and preventive maintenance across Colorado. The right provider maximizes uptime and ensures safety. Take the time to evaluate potential partners carefully. Ask questions, verify credentials, and confirm capabilities. A well-chosen partner will keep your fleet running smoothly, save you money, and prevent unexpected headaches.

Summer Performance vs All-Weather Performance Tires: Seasonal Tire Showdown

Introduction

Choosing between summer performance tires and all-weather performance tires can be tricky. Both are designed to deliver sporty handling and improved grip, but they excel in different conditions. Summer performance tires thrive in warm, dry, and wet climates, while all-weather performance tires offer year-round usability, including light snow. This showdown breaks down the differences so you can pick the best tires for your driving style and climate.

What Are Summer Performance Tires?

Summer performance tires are engineered for maximum grip and handling during warm weather. They’re ideal for sports cars, performance sedans, and drivers who value precise control.

Key Features:

  • Soft rubber compounds for exceptional grip.
  • Optimized tread for dry and wet traction.
  • Stiffer sidewalls for sharper cornering.
  • Not safe for freezing temperatures or snow.

Quick Answer: Summer performance tires deliver unmatched agility and stopping power in warm conditions but lose effectiveness in cold climates.

What Are All-Weather Performance Tires?

All-weather performance tires bridge the gap between all-season convenience and sporty handling. They provide solid performance in dry, wet, and light snowy conditions.

Key Features:

  • Balanced rubber compound for year-round use.
  • Tread designs capable of handling light snow.
  • Sport-inspired construction for responsive steering.
  • Slightly less grip than summer-only tires in dry conditions.

Quick Answer: All-weather performance tires are versatile, offering sporty driving with added capability in light snow or colder weather.

Pros and Cons of Summer Performance Tires

Advantages

  • Maximum grip on dry and wet warm roads.
  • Superior cornering and agility.
  • Shorter braking distances in warm weather.
  • High responsiveness for spirited driving.

Disadvantages

  • Unsafe in freezing temperatures.
  • Useless in snow and ice.
  • Shorter tread life due to softer compounds.
  • Require seasonal changes in colder regions.

Pros and Cons of All-Weather Performance Tires

Advantages

  • Usable year-round, including light snow.
  • Balanced handling in multiple conditions.
  • Save money and effort by avoiding seasonal tire swaps.
  • Longer tread life compared to summer-only tires.

Disadvantages

  • Less ultimate grip compared to summer tires.
  • Slightly longer braking distances in dry conditions.
  • Not suitable for extreme winter weather.
  • May compromise maximum performance for versatility.

Driving Differences: Summer vs All-Weather

Handling and Cornering

  • Summer Tires: Offer razor-sharp handling, ideal for enthusiasts.
  • All-Weather Tires: Deliver solid control but not as precise as summer tires.

Wet Weather Performance

  • Summer Tires: Excellent hydroplaning resistance in warm rain.
  • All-Weather Tires: Good balance, but softer in warm, wet handling.

Cold and Snow Conditions

  • Summer Tires: Unsafe; compounds harden in cold, reducing traction.
  • All-Weather Tires: Safe for light snow and freezing conditions, though not a substitute for dedicated winter tires.

Longevity and Cost

  • Summer Tires: Tend to wear faster, especially with aggressive driving.
  • All-Weather Tires: Last longer, making them more cost-effective for year-round use.

Tire Ratings to Watch

When choosing between these tires, look at:

  • UTQG Treadwear: Summer tires often have lower ratings (200–300) vs all-weather (400–600).
  • Traction Ratings: Both usually score A or AA.
  • Speed Ratings: Summer tires may reach W or Y; all-weather tires are usually H or V.
  • Temperature Ratings: Both should be A-rated for performance safety.

Maintenance Tips for Both Types

  • Rotate every 5,000–7,500 miles to even out wear.
  • Monitor tire pressure monthly for grip and safety.
  • Inspect tread depth regularly.
  • For summer tires, store them properly in cold months.
  • For all-weather tires, inspect tread before heavy winter use.

Who Should Choose Summer Performance Tires?

These are best for:

  • Drivers in warm climates with no winter conditions.
  • Enthusiasts who prioritize maximum grip and agility.
  • Owners of sports cars or vehicles tuned for performance.
  • Weekend racers or spirited drivers.

Who Should Choose All-Weather Performance Tires?

These are best for:

  • Drivers in regions with unpredictable or mild winters.
  • Buyers who want sporty handling without seasonal swaps.
  • Commuters needing versatility and longer tread life.
  • Families who want safety in varied conditions without sacrificing responsiveness.

FAQ: Common Buyer Questions

Are summer tires faster than all-weather tires?

In terms of grip and cornering, yes. Summer tires are built for speed and agility.

Can I use summer tires in winter?

No. Their compounds harden in cold weather, making them unsafe.

Are all-weather performance tires the same as all-season tires?

Not exactly. All-weather performance tires emphasize sporty handling with added winter capability, while all-season tires focus more on comfort and mileage.

Do all-weather tires save money?

Yes. They eliminate the need for two sets of tires and seasonal changes, though they may not match summer tires in peak performance.

Quick Comparison Table

Quick Comparison Table

Real-World Scenarios

  • Southern States or Tropical Climates: Summer tires excel with year-round warm grip.
  • Northern States with Mild Winters: All-weather tires provide balance and safety.
  • Weekend Track Enthusiasts: Summer tires deliver ultimate control.
  • Daily Commuters in Mixed Climates: All-weather tires save money and effort.

Conclusion

Choosing between summer performance and all-weather performance tires depends on where you live and how you drive. Summer tires offer maximum handling and grip in warm conditions, making them perfect for enthusiasts and sporty vehicles. All-weather performance tires trade some ultimate precision for versatility, safety, and cost-effectiveness year-round.

Bottom line: If you live in a warm climate or crave driving thrills, summer tires are the way to go. If you want year-round usability with reliable handling in varied conditions, all-weather performance tires are the smarter choice.

Next step: Assess your climate, driving style, and budget, then consult a tire specialist to find the best fit for your needs.

Carrying On In Kansas: Cody Ware Brings Key Learnings From May Race at Kansas to Hollywood Casino 400

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Sept. 22, 2025) – It’s been a little more than four months since the NASCAR Cup Series last raced at Kansas Speedway in Kansas City. In this span, spring turned to summer and this week, summer officially turned to fall. The marathon-like Cup Series schedule, however, has remained omnipresent, with stock car racing’s premier division returning to the 1.5-mile oval for Sunday’s Hollywood Casino 400.

The sweeping, D-shaped layout on the outskirts of Kansas City plays host to round No. 31 on the Cup Series’ 36-race calendar, and the fifth race in the 10-race NASCAR Playoffs. For Cody Ware, driver of the No. 51 Evel Knievel Museum Ford Mustang Dark Horse for Rick Ware Racing, the Hollywood Casino 400 is about building off the learnings from his prior visit to the track in May while being mindful of the 12 drivers still vying for a Cup Series title.

“Kansas back in the spring was a learning experience for our whole race team,” Ware said. “We learned a lot of things the hard way during the first third of the season, but our mile-and-a-half program was fairly decent earlier in the year and I feel like it’s gotten better as the year’s gone on.

“After Kansas, we went to Charlotte for the Coke 600 and finished 25th. That’s when we started to turn a corner in terms of the balance of our racecar and some of the other things we were lacking at the start of the season.

“I’m super optimistic to get back to Kansas. Knowing what we know now, we have a much better plan of attack. I feel like we’re in a position to convert our speed into a tangible result.”

Kansas is a track that produces high speeds and daring, side-by-side racing. Drivers are able to explore multiple racing lines, and its smooth surface provides a consistent feel, instilling much-needed confidence when throwing a 3,400-pound racecar into a corner at around 170 mph.

“Kansas is in great condition. No bumps, no wear, you can pretty much run that track from top to bottom,” Ware said. “If you want to run the apron, you can run the apron. If you want to run the wall, you can run the wall. And you can run any combination of lanes in between. It’s really just a very good, solid, smooth, clean racetrack, which makes it easier to extract the car’s full potential.”

A car’s full potential is realized by finding the proper balance between aerodynamic and mechanical grip. Teams manage aero grip by distributing downforce between the front and rear of the car as best as possible, maximizing stability and turn-in at high speeds. Mechanical grip comes from the chassis setup, where the car’s suspension augments and amplifies the capabilities of the tires.

“At mile-and-a-half tracks, aero balance is a huge part of how your day’s going to go, and that’s something we’ve really been working on through the summer,” Ware said. “We have a much better idea of where we are today compared to when we were at Kansas back in May.”

Another new wrinkle to the Cup Series’ return to Kansas is that it’s in the midst of the playoffs. Just 12 of the 36 drivers in the Hollywood Casino 400 are still playoff eligible, creating a race within the 267-lap race. For Ware, that means focusing on his own race while keeping a careful eye on those still chasing a series championship.

“The best way to navigate it all is to have a good car. Ideally, you’re racing hard and you’re on the lead lap,” Ware said.

“Still, you’re always going to try and give those guys a little extra room just because they’re racing for a lot more than we are at the moment. You give those guys respect in a way that, hopefully, when the roles are reversed one day, it gets paid back. That’s important because there really are two separate races going on during the playoffs.”

The on-track preparation for these races begins Saturday with practice at 12 p.m. CDT/1 p.m. EDT followed by qualifying at 1:10 p.m. CDT/2:10 p.m. EDT. TruTV and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio will provide live coverage of both. The Hollywood Casino 400 goes green on Sunday at 2 p.m. CDT/3 p.m. EDT with flag-to-flag coverage delivered by USA and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

About Rick Ware Racing:

Rick Ware has been a motorsports mainstay for more than 40 years. It began at age 6 when the third-generation racer began his driving career and has since spanned four wheels and two wheels on both asphalt and dirt. Competing in the SCCA Trans Am Series and other road-racing divisions led Ware to NASCAR in the early 1980s, where he finished third in his NASCAR debut – the 1983 Warner W. Hodgdon 300 NASCAR Grand American race at Riverside (Calif.) International Raceway. More than a decade later, injuries would force Ware out of the driver’s seat and into full-time team ownership. In 1995, Rick Ware Racing was formed, and with his wife Lisa by his side, Ware has since built his eponymous organization into an entity that competes full-time in the elite NASCAR Cup Series while simultaneously campaigning successful teams in the Top Fuel class of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, Progressive American Flat Track, FIM World Supercross Championship (WSX) and zMAX CARS Tour.