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Claim Settlement Ratio in Car Insurance: How Much Should You Trust It?

Claim settlement ratio helps you understand how an insurer has handled claims in the past. A higher ratio may look reassuring, but it does not tell the full story. It does not show claim speed, deductions, service quality, or the reason for rejected claims.

So, while choosing car insurance, use this ratio as a useful check, but also review the coverage, claim process and policy terms before deciding.

What Claim Settlement Ratio Actually Means

The claim settlement ratio shows the percentage of claims settled by an insurer out of the total claims received during a specific period. In simple words, it helps you understand the insurer’s past claim handling record.

However, this number does not show how fast the claim was settled, how much was approved, whether follow-ups were required, or why some claims were rejected.

Why You Should Trust It to Some Extent

You can trust the claim settlement ratio as a basic indicator of an insurer’s past claim handling record. A consistently healthy ratio may show that the insurer has experience in processing claims and settling eligible cases. For a car owner, this matters because a claim is usually made during a stressful situation.

Your car may be damaged, you may need repairs quickly, or you may need support after an accident. In such cases, an insurer with a reasonable claim record may give more confidence. This is why the ratio should be checked before buying or renewing a policy.

Why You Should Not Trust It Completely

The claim settlement ratio should not be treated as a final decision-making factor. A high ratio does not mean every claim will be accepted. Every claim is assessed based on policy coverage, documents, inspection, survey reports, and claim conditions.

If a claim does not meet the policy terms, it may not be approved even if the insurer has a good settlement ratio. Similarly, the ratio does not tell whether the claim amount was settled fully or after deductions. This is why you should not choose a policy only because the ratio looks high.

What the Ratio Tells You and What It Misses

The ratio gives a quick view of past claim settlements, but it does not cover every detail of the claim experience.

Claim Settlement Ratio Can Tell YouIt May Not Tell You
How many claims were settledHow quickly were claims settled
Past claim settlement patternQuality of customer support
Broad claim handling recordReason for rejected claims
Useful comparison pointActual amount approved
General settlement performanceEase of cashless repair

Check the Claim Process along with the Ratio

A simple claim process is as essential as the right ratio. Before choosing a policy, check how you can report a claim, what documents are required, and how the repair approval works. For car damage claims, insurers usually ask for basic documents such as policy details, registration certificate, driving license, claim form and repair estimate.

In cases such as theft, major accident or third-party injury, additional documents may be required. The exact process can differ from one insurer to another, so always read the policy wording and claim guidelines.

Why Coverage Matters More than Just the Number

A claim settlement ratio is useful, but it cannot help if the loss is not covered under the policy. So, when choosing car insurance, check coverage, deductibles, conditions, and the claim process carefully.

Comprehensive insurance offers wider protection by including own damage and third-party liability cover, subject to policy terms. Add-ons such as zero depreciation, engine protection and roadside assistance can also make the policy more useful during a claim.

Look at Network Garages and Cashless Repairs

Cashless repair support can make the claim process easier for car owners. If the insurer has network garages near your home, office or regular travel routes, you may be able to manage repairs with less paperwork and upfront payment, subject to policy terms.

A claim settlement ratio does not always show this practical side of the claim experience. So, along with the claim record, also check the availability of network garages and cashless repair support in your city.

Final Thoughts

The claim settlement ratio in car insurance is worth checking, but it should not be trusted blindly. It shows how an insurer has handled claims in the past, but your own claim will depend on policy terms, documents, coverage and survey findings.

A starting point is the use of the ratio. Then check coverage, the claims process, cashless garages, and support quality. That is a more practical way to choose a policy that may serve you better when you actually need to make a claim.

Understanding the Risks of Speed-Related Accidents

Photo by Harley-Davidson on Unsplash

Drivers often rush to reach destinations without thinking about the dangers. Pressing the gas pedal feels harmless in the moment. The reality of high-velocity travel tells a different story.

Speed limits exist to maintain order and protect lives on public roads. Disregarding these limits can lead to devastating choices. Safe driving demands full attention and respect for velocity limits.

The Human Cost of High Velocity

Fast driving reduces the time a driver has to react to unexpected hazards. An obstacle on the pavement can turn into a major crisis. Staying within posted limits gives operators the space they need to steer clear of trouble.

Speeding crashes frequently cause severe physical trauma to everyone involved. Working with a competent Michigan personal injury attorney or one from another city helps victims protect their legal rights after a major wreck. Legal support can alleviate some of the heavy burdens during recovery.

Impact forces multiply rapidly as velocity increases. This mechanical reality means collisions become far more destructive. Small errors transform into severe catastrophes when drivers accelerate past legal bounds.

Mechanical Limits and Control

High speeds put strain on vehicle components like tires and brakes. Braking distances extend dramatically when a vehicle travels fast. Stopping a rapid vehicle requires far more pavement than drivers anticipate.

Tires lose traction much quicker during high-velocity turns or sudden maneuvers. Vehicles become unstable and difficult to guide along sharp highway curves. Maintaining a steady pace keeps the vehicle firmly planted on the asphalt.

Modern safety features like anti-lock brakes have physical limitations. Computerized systems cannot overcome the raw laws of motion during a fast slide. Safe operation relies on driver choices rather than relying completely on technology.

Single Vehicle Collisions

Many speed-related incidents do not involve another motorist on the road. Drivers frequently lose control and slide off the pavement entirely. These events often lead to collisions with fixed objects like trees or guardrails.

Research published in a National Institutes of Health repository tracks these solo driving patterns. The study indicates that single-vehicle wrecks caused by speeding lead to a disproportionately high count of fatalities and severe trauma compared to other passenger vehicle incidents. These findings highlight how dangerous lone acceleration can be.

Roadway conditions like wet pavement make solo travel even more unpredictable. A patch of hidden ice or water can send a speeding car spinning out of control. Lowering velocity during poor weather helps prevent these tragic solo events.

Environmental Factors on the Road

Roadway design influences how speed impacts driver safety. Dark conditions and narrow paths reduce visibility for even the most alert operators. Speeding through these environments leaves zero room for sudden adjustments.

Particular infrastructure choices change how motorists handle their vehicles. Certain areas require extra caution. Drivers must monitor these distinct road characteristics:

  • Sharp curves that reduce tire grip at high velocities
  • Narrow lanes with minimal shoulder space for errors
  • Areas with frequent pedestrian traffic near the pavement

Navigating complex zones demands lower velocities to avoid sudden braking. Surprises happen quickly when vision is blocked by trees or buildings. Slower movement preserves the time needed to see and avoid obstacles.

Urban planning choices directly affect how fast people choose to drive. Wide roads often encourage motorists to accelerate without realizing the danger. Communities are exploring new layouts to naturally moderate traffic velocities.

An academic study from a University of Michigan publication looked closely at neighborhood intersections. The data shows that roundabouts in low-income areas experience higher total crash rates but lower rates of behavioral crashes like speeding and alcohol involvement. This suggests infrastructure changes can alter dangerous driving choices.

Changing how streets are built can save lives in residential areas. Narrower paths and traffic circles force operators to slow down manually. These physical reminders create safer surroundings for everyone sharing the neighborhood space.

The Economic Impact of Aggressive Driving

Speeding inflicts heavy financial damage on communities and households. Property destruction from high velocity impacts requires expensive repairs and replacements. Medical bills for emergency care accumulate rapidly after a bad collision.

Insurance premiums rise significantly for drivers who get cited for moving violations. Tickets and legal fines add immediate financial strain to a family budget. Staying within legal limits preserves personal finances and keeps clean driving records.

Society bears the broader costs of traffic delays and emergency response resources. Blocked highways disrupt commerce and delay other commuters for hours. Safe habits protect collective economic health alongside individual well-being.

Shifting the Driving Culture

Changing individual habits is the clearest path to reducing speed-related harm. Motorists must prioritize safety over arriving a few minutes early. Planning trips ahead of schedule removes the pressure to rush through traffic.

Passenger advocacy plays a key role in keeping operators accountable behind the wheel. Speaking up against fast driving can influence a friend to slow down. Collective social pressure helps establish safer norms on shared roadways.

Education programs remind drivers about the physical realities of high-velocity travel. Awareness campaigns reinforce why legal limits are set at designated numbers. Making conscious choices to ease off the gas pedal saves countless lives.

Blue crashed car
Image by Rhonda Jenkins from Pixabay

Velocity choices dictate the safety of every trip taken on public streets. Easing off the accelerator pedal preserves control and reduces collision violence. Every motorist holds the power to prevent unnecessary highway tragedies.

Commitment to sensible habits keeps neighborhoods secure for pedestrians and drivers alike. Respecting shared roadways means arriving safely instead of racing against the clock. Responsible choices behind the wheel create a protective shield for everyone.

Measures to Address Breakage of Glass Cosmetic Bottles During Transit Due to Various Factors

Bottles made from glass have an elegant look and feel and are traditionally the packaging of choice for premium skincare, perfumes, and beauty products. But the fragility of glass means it is prone to breaking on the journey. To prevent loss and retain the quality of the product, an effective process of protecting glass containers during shipping should be established by both the manufacturer and the distributor.

One of the most important things to consider is to use quality packaging materials. Bubble wrap, molded pulp or foam cups, and corrugated can absorb impact and reduce bottle-to-bottle contact. Boxes with dividers can also keep bottles from bumping one another while being moved.

Another important factor is fine-tuning the bottle design and weight distribution. Thick glass bases and reinforced necks can enhance structural integrity without adding substantially to freight costs. Manufacturers of the best quality products, like the Stone-style Wash And Care Bottle, tend to prioritize aesthetic over practicality.

Good palletizing and stacking are just as important. Full pallets or pallets stacked with tightly packed cartons can exert pressure or compress the lower layers, leading to crushing potential of the produce, but more so to mundane tears when dealing with glass products. Using stretch wrap and strapping cartons can ensure your freight is more stable, especially in long-haul logistics that involve several loads and unloads. 

Temperature changes and vibrations during transport may also be contributing factors for glass breaking. Selecting trustworthy logistics partners, having controlled storage conditions if necessary, and minimizing the handling can help to mitigate these risks. In addition, are your manufacturers performing routine drop tests and vibration simulations to help identify packaging failures before the products reach customers?

A further practical solution is clear labeling. Labeling the cartons with “Fragile” and “Handle with Care” will make the warehouse and transport workers more careful. Even if labels aren’t sufficient to prevent accidents, they are a good reminder to be especially careful.

In the case of cosmetic formulations containing active substances that are sensitive, packaging protection is not limited to shielding them from physical harm. Products aimed at Protecting Vitamin C-sensitive Ingredients often rely on specialized glass bottles and secure closures to preserve stability while ensuring safe transportation.

When you protect ingredient stability with protective packaging and formulation strategies, you benefit from ingredient and customer satisfaction.

Finally, ongoing quality audits and continuous improvement based on the feedback of shipments may reveal the same problems over and over again and improve packaging procedures. By monitoring breakage reports and experimenting with new materials or designs, companies can not only save money on replacements but also enhance brand loyalty. Robust packaging solutions, intelligent logistics, and innovative bottle design are enabling cosmetic brands to reduce breakage during transit and continue delivering their products safely and consistently to consumers around the world.

Rosenqvist looks to build on Indy 500 victory at XPEL Grand Prix at Road America

The Indy 500 might’ve ended in climactic fashion, but IndyCar fans will know the season is far from its real climax. This week, the IndyCar caravan heads to Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, where Road America hosted the XPEL Grand Prix from 18 to 21 June.

Defending champion Alex Palou currently leads the championship standings, but Felix Rosenqvist will be hoping to build on his Indy 500 victory, along with the chasing pack. Rosenqvist might not be among the favorites for the race among popular sportsbooks, but he’ll be riding high and on form in Wisconsin.

Indycar Championship race hots up

Defending champion Alex Palou leads the field into Road America and arrives having won this race last year in convincing fashion. The Chip Ganassi Racing driver is closing in on a landmark, too: his next victory will be his 60th in IndyCar, making him only the second driver in series history to reach that milestone behind the legendary A.J. Foyt. 

Pato O’Ward, Will Power, and Scott Dixon complete a field that is as competitive as any in the series’ recent history. Power is a two-time winner at Road America and said during Tuesday’s test that he is looking to start the second half of his season strongly. 

Josef Newgarden will also be looking to take victory here, having won the Bommarito Automotive Group 500 last week. Then there’s Felix Rosenqvist, currently 8th in the standings, the highest of the three Meyer Shank Racing drivers.

Rosenqvist looks to build on Indy 500 triumph

Rosenqvist looked like a driver with something of a hangover at the Bommarito Automotive Group 500 last week. After starting the race in 4th place, he had a tough race and ended the night in 14th place. It’s unlikely that performance will live long in his memory, though, as his triumph in Indianapolis will probably be a little more memorable.

Rosenqvist has had quite the last few weeks: the Swede welcomed his first child with his wife in May, before going on to become the third Swede to win the Indy 500, beating David Malukas by 0.0233 seconds with a last-lap pass of a dramatic race.

He’s also had success at Road America in the past, finishing on the podium in 2nd place at last year’s event. The Indy 500 victory was only his second victory in IndyCar after 8 years in the series, but his first came six years earlier at Road America in 2020.

He’ll be anxious to add another win to his tally, especially at a track where he’s been so successful in the past.

NASCAR at Sonoma Weekend Schedule

Sonoma. NASCAR Cup Series at Sonoma Raceway on July 13, 2025 in Sonoma, California. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

NASCAR heads to Sonoma Raceway this weekend for a full weekend of racing action. The ARCA Menards Series West Series is up first on Friday evening. The O’Reilly Auto Parts Series takes center stage Saturday evening, and Sunday, the NASCAR Cup Series closes out the weekend with the Toyota/Save Mart 350.

The Craftsman Truck Series has a few weeks off but returns to action on Saturday, July 11, at Lime Rock Park.

Cup Series Notes:

Jeff Gordon leads the NASCAR Cup Series in all-time starts at Sonoma Raceway with 23 starts.

Denny Hamlin leads all active NASCAR Cup Series drivers in starts at Sonoma Raceway with 19 starts.

Kyle Larson leads all active drivers with two NASCAR Cup Series wins at Sonoma Raceway (2021, 2024).

Youngest Cup Series Sonoma pole winner: Joey Logano (June 26, 2011 – 21 years, 1 month, 2 days).
Oldest Cup Series Sonoma pole winner: Rusty Wallace (June 25, 2000 – 43 years, 10 months, 11 days).
Chase Elliott has finished top-10 in the last five races at Sonoma and top-5 in the last three. Both of these are the longest active streaks.

O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Notes:

Sonoma Raceway will mark the last of four road course races in the series this season.
The three previous winners include:
2/28/2026 COTA Shane van Gisbergen
5/9/2026 Watkins Glen Connor Zilisch
6/20/2026 San Diego Austin Hill

Connor Zilisch has the most wins on road courses among active drivers:

Connor Zilisch 7
Shane van Gisbergen 5
Sam Mayer 4
Justin Allgaier 3
Austin Hill 1
Jeremy Clements 1

Friday, June 26

1:40-ARCA West Practice
3:10: ARCA West Qualifying
6:30 p.m.: ARCA General Tire 150 – FloRacing
47 Laps, 93.53 Miles

4 p.m.: O’Reilly Series Practice – CW App
5:05 p.m.: O’Reilly Series Qualifying – CW APP

Saturday, June 27

2 p.m.: Cup Series Practice
truTV/PRN/SiriusXM

3:10 p.m.: Cup Series Qualifying
truTV/PRN/SiriusXM
Post Qualifying: NASCAR Press Pass

5:30 p.m.: O’Reilly Pit Boss/FoodMaxx 250
Stages end on laps 20/45/79 = 157.21 Miles
CW/PRN/SiriusXM
Purse: $1,661,806
Post Race: NASCAR Press Pass

Sunday, June 28

3:30 p.m.: Cup Series Toyota/Save Mart 350
Stages end on laps 25/55/110 = 218.9 Miles
TNT Sports/HBO Max/PRN/SiriusXM
Purse: $11,233,037
Post Race: NASCAR Press Pass

*All times are Eastern.

TOP FUEL’S CLAY MILLICAN HOPING GOOD VIBES AT SUMMIT RACING EQUIPMENT NHRA NATIONALS LEADS TO WIN

NORWALK, Ohio (June 24, 2026) – Clay Millican has a lot of stops he enjoys on the NHRA Mission Drag Series tour, including the most recent event in Bristol.

This weekend’s fan-favorite 20th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals at Summit Motorsports Park also qualifies as one, leaving the Top Fuel veteran equal parts hopeful and excited heading to the halfway point of NHRA’s 75th anniversary season in 2026.

Millican and his Rick Ware Racing team haven’t hit their stride yet this year in the team’s 12,000-horsepower Summit Racing Equipment dragster, but a breakout performance in Norwalk would be welcomed by all.

Millican is confident it’s coming and doing so at a standout facility that has treated him well over the years would be a massive boost heading into a critical point of the 2026 campaign.

“We got close to getting that ice cream scoop (trophy) last year,” said Millican, who fell in the final round in Norwalk to Justin Ashley last year. “I definitely want to get it this year and that Diamond Wally (for NHRA’s 75th anniversary season).

“The Bader family is amazing. I grew up in a family business and going there reminds me of that. It makes it feel like home.”

Last year, Ashley (Top Fuel), Austin Prock (Funny Car), Cory Reed (Pro Stock) and John Hall (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all won the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals. This year’s race will again be broadcast on FOX, with qualifying and the GETTRX Pro Stock NHRA All-Star Callout coverage on FS1 and eliminations on FOX at 5:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, June 28.

It is the 10th of 20 races during the 2026 season and this weekend’s event also features the GETTRX Pro Stock All-Star Callout bonus race and the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge in Top Fuel, Funny Car and Pro Stock Motorcycle.

For Millican, the weekend represents trying to get on track and putting together consistent runs as the Countdown to the Championship playoffs get closer. Transitioning to a canopy car has meant some bumps in the road through the first nine races, as the veteran is currently 10th in points.

But they’ve made strides in recent weeks, winning rounds in Maryland and Epping after a semifinal appearance in Valdosta. Bristol didn’t go as planned, but Millican believes the team is on the verge of breaking through in a big way.

It will take a big effort to win in Norwalk against a loaded Top Fuel lineup that includes points leader Shawn Langdon, who has advanced to the final round at eight of the past nine races, reigning world champ Doug Kalitta, racing legend Tony Stewart, Bristol winner Antron Brown, Epping winner Leah Pruett, Ashley and Josh Hart.

Millican, though, remains confident his team can make some noise at America’s Racetrack, which would bode well for him for multiple reasons.

“I do feel we are getting closer to learning what these canopy cars like,” said Millican, who has eight career NHRA victories. “None of our tuners have ever run one before this year and it does change the way we run our car.

“(But) it is the time of year to start getting your ducks in a row and making moves towards consistency.”

Funny Car’s Prock will look for back-to-back Norwalk wins, this time with Tasca Racing. Other marquee names in the class include points leader Ron Capps, Matt Hagan, who won in Bristol, J.R. Todd, Epping winner Jack Beckman, class newcomer Jordan Vandergriff, Alexis DeJoria and Chad Green, who has two wins in 2026.

Matt Hartford won in Bristol and is also the reigning winner in the GETTRX Pro Stock All-Star Callout. He’ll look to repeat and sweep the weekend against a Callout field of Greg Anderson, who is the top seed and has the first pick, reigning world champ Dallas Glenn, Eric Latino, Greg Stanfield, Enders, Aaron Stanfield and Jeg Coughlin.

Hall wants a repeat Pro Stock Motorcycle win in Norwalk against a talented field that includes points leader and reigning world champ Richard Gadson, Angie Smith, Gaige Herrera, Chase Van Sant, Steve Johnson, Jianna Evaristo and Ryan Oehler.

Race fans also get to see action in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Series and Flexjet NHRA Factory Stock Showdown.

Norwalk race fans can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce each driver and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk and congratulate the winners at the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday. As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. They can visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and vendors create an exciting atmosphere.

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 5 and 7:30 p.m. ET on Friday, June 26, and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, June 27 at 12 and 2:30 p.m. Eliminations will begin at 11 a.m. ET on Sunday, June 28.

The GETTRX Pro Stock NHRA All-Star Callout starts Friday, June 26 at 3 p.m., where the drivers will make their first-round picks. The first round of the Callout is Saturday, June 27 at 11:30 a.m., followed by the semifinals at 1:15 p.m. and the finals at 4 p.m.

Television coverage begins Sunday, June 28 and includes the GETTRX Pro Stock NHRA All-Star Callout on FS1 at 11 a.m., leading into qualifying coverage at 12 p.m. Elimination coverage kicks off at 5:30 p.m. on FOX.

To purchase tickets to Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. Children 12 and under are free in general admission areas with the purchase of an adult ticket.


About Mission Foods

MISSION®, owned by GRUMA, S.A.B. de C.V., is the world’s leading brand for tortillas and wraps. MISSION® is also globally renowned for flatbreads, dips, salsas and Mexican food products. With presence in over 112 countries, MISSION® products are suited to the lifestyles and the local tastes of each country. With innovation and customer needs in mind, MISSION® focuses on the highest quality, authentic flavors, and providing healthy options that families and friends can enjoy together. For more information, please visit https://www.missionfoods.com/

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 JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports and NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™ 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.

Hendrick Motorsports Media Advance: Sonoma

Sonoma Raceway
Sunday, June 28
1.99-Mile Road Course
3:30 p.m. ET
Location: Sonoma, California
TV: Fox
Event: NASCAR Cup Series (Race 18 of 36)
RADIO: SiriusXM

5 KYLE LARSON
Age: 33 (July 31, 1992)
Hometown: Elk Grove, California
Last Race: 3rd (Naval Base Coronado)
Crew Chief: Cliff Daniels
Standings: 4th

No. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet

  • Last weekend in the inaugural Anduril 250 at Naval Base Coronado, Kyle Larson and the No. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM team earned a third-place finish. It was the team’s third consecutive top five, marking the longest active top-five streak in the NASCAR Cup Series and Larson’s longest such streak in more than a year (four consecutive races in the spring of 2025).
  • This weekend, the Elk Grove, California, native returns to Sonoma Raceway, his home track, where he is a two-time winner on the 1.99-mile road course.
  • Larson (two) is one of only two repeat winners in the last 16 Cup Series races at Sonoma (Martin Truex Jr., four).
  • Larson has accumulated a series-leading 150 stage points through the first 17 races of the 2026 season. Those points have helped propel the team to fourth in the Cup Series points standings.
  • Sonoma Raceway marks the opening event of the NASCAR In-Season Challenge. As the No. 6 seed, Larson will face No. 27 seed Riley Herbst in the first round. Through the first 17 races of the 2026 season, Larson has finished ahead of Herbst 13 times, including all three road course events

9 CHASE ELLIOTT
Age: 30 (Nov. 28, 1995)
Hometown: Dawsonville, Georgia
Last Race: 12th (Naval Base Coronado)
Crew Chief: Alan Gustafson
Standings: 6th

No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet

  • This weekend, the NASCAR Cup Series heads to Sonoma Raceway, where Chase Elliott has the longest active streak of top fives (three) and top 10s (five).
  • In the Next Gen era at Sonoma, the 30-year-old has the second-best average finish (fifth). Also, among those with five or more starts at Sonoma, he has the best career average finish (10.2) among active drivers and ranks fourth all time.
  • Elliott’s seven wins on road courses are tied for the most among active drivers and rank third all time behind NASCAR Hall of Famers Jeff Gordon (nine) and Tony Stewart (eight). His 489 laps led on serpentine tracks tops his current competitors and ranks seventh all time.
  • In the Next Gen Era on road courses, Elliott is tied for the most top-five finishes (11) and is tied for the fourth-most top 10s (15). His laps led (147) in that span rank fourth and his average finish ranks fifth (10.92).
  • Heading into the first round of the NASCAR In-Season Challenge this weekend at Sonoma, fourth-seeded Elliott is up against Noah Gragson. Elliott has finished ahead of Gragson 14 times in 17 events this year.

24 WILLIAM BYRON
Age: 28 (Nov. 29, 1997)
Hometown: Charlotte, North Carolina
Last Race: 32nd (Naval Base Coronado)
Crew Chief: Rudy Fugle
Standings: 13th

No. 24 Axalta Solar Boost Chevrolet

  • In the last 16 NASCAR Cup Series road course races, William Byron has two wins (one each at Circuit of The Americas and Watkins Glen International), six top-five finishes and nine top 10s.
  • The Charlotte, North Carolina, native’s two road course victories are the fifth most by a Hendrick Motorsports driver.
  • In the Next Gen era on road courses, he has led the sixth-most laps (139) with an average finish of 14.85.
  • With seven starts at Sonoma Raceway, Byron has two top-10 finishes with a track-best finish of eighth last year.
  • This weekend marks the first race of the NASCAR In-Season Challenge which will see one driver winning $1 million after a 32-team, single-elimination tournament is played out over the next five weeks. Byron is the 11th seed and will be up against Ricky Stenhouse Jr. with the better finisher at Sonoma moving on. Byron has two top-10 finishes at Sonoma compared to Stenhouse’s track best-finish of 12th.

48 ALEX BOWMAN
Age: 33 (April 25, 1993)
Hometown: Tucson, Arizona
Last Race: 26th (Naval Base Coronado)
Crew Chief: Blake Harris
Standings: 32nd

No. 48 Ally Chevrolet

  • In the Next Gen era, Alex Bowman is among 13 drivers that have earned at least one road course win in the NASCAR Cup Series. His victory came at the Chicago Street Course in 2023 after leading the last eight laps.
  • In the last 26 road course races, the 33-year-old has earned six top-five finishes and nine top 10s.
  • At Sonoma Raceway, Bowman has earned two top-10 finishes (2018 and 2021) with a best showing of ninth.
  • In Round 1 of the NASCAR In-Season Challenge at Sonoma, Bowman will go head-to-head with top-seeded Tyler Reddick. The highest finisher of the two will advance into Round 2 at Chicagoland Speedway.

17 COREY DAY
Age: 20 (November 28, 2005)
Hometown: Clovis, California
Last Race: 10th (Naval Base Coronado)
Crew Chief: Adam Wall
Standings: 3rd

Corey Day left Naval Base Coronado with another top-10 finish last Saturday after overcoming significant adversity throughout the event. Following extensive repairs to the No. 17 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet after an incident in practice, Day started 31st and continued to face challenges during the race, including damage caused by a loose manhole cover shortly after the green flag. NASCAR allowed the team to make repairs and restored four laps, enabling Day to return to the lead lap. Despite the setbacks, Day rallied to finish 10th, securing his 13th top-10 result of the season.
The Clovis, California, native returns to his home track for his second NASCAR O’Reilly Series start on the 1.99-mile road course at Sonoma Raceway.
The 20-year-old made his Sonoma debut last July, starting 14th with Greg Ives as crew chief.
In five starts on road courses throughout his NOAPS career, Day has recorded two top-10 finishes.

Hendrick Motorsports

2026All-TimeSonoma
Races171,43436
Wins2322*8*
Poles0259*10*
Top 5171,339*37*
Top 10282,288*65*
Laps Led92486,291*833*
Stage Wins71445*


*Most
**Tied for most

  • Hendrick Motorsports has the all-time lead in NASCAR Cup Series poles (27), wins (31), top fives (105), top 10s (175) and laps led (2,473) on road courses. The organization also leads in those same categories at Sonoma Raceway with 10 poles, eight victories, 37 top fives, 65 top 10s and 833 laps led while additionally owning the most stage wins with five.
  • Three Hendrick Motorsports drivers have won five of the last 16 road course races: Kyle Larson (two), William Byron (two), Alex Bowman (one).
  • At least two of the team’s drivers have finished in the top 10 in each of the last five Sonoma races, the longest active streak in the series.
  • The Hendrick Motorsports engine department enters the weekend with 573 victories across all three national NASCAR touring series, including 14 of 18 events in the NASCAR O’Reilly Series this season.
  • Hendrick Motorsports remains the Cup Series’ all-time standard bearer in wins (322), poles (259), top-five finishes (1,339), top 10s (2,288), laps led (86,291) and championships (15).

QUOTABLE

Kyle Larson, driver of the No. 5 Chevrolet, on Sonoma Raceway: “I like Sonoma. It’s my home race, so I’ll have some friends and family there, but beyond that, Napa Valley is just an awesome area. Sonoma is one of those road courses with fewer turns, and I feel like I perform better on those types of tracks. It has a nice flow to it and offers a lot of grip, which I enjoy. Overall, I’m looking forward to being back in my home area.”

Chase Elliott, driver of the No. 9 Chevrolet, on racing at Sonoma Raceway: “Last year, I felt like we had a strong race going in Sonoma, but didn’t quite have what we needed at the end. Still managed to get a solid result. After last weekend (San Diego), it would be nice to just get to Sonoma, have a solid qualifying effort and just put a whole race together. We haven’t had much luck on road courses this season, but Sonoma is a place I really enjoy once I can get into a good rhythm, so I’m hoping we can get back on track with a good run this weekend.”

William Byron, driver of the No. 24 Chevrolet, on taking speed from Naval Base Coronado to Sonoma Raceway: “Last weekend at San Diego (Street Course) was promising. We had speed and made improvements to the car through the full weekend. We definitely were moving through the field Sunday. I just misjudged the wall in turn six and ended up causing suspension damage. The No. 24 team worked hard though to make repairs so we could finish, but we were having a strong day and really learned a lot. I think we’ll be able to transfer some of that over to this weekend at Sonoma Raceway.”

Alex Bowman, driver of the No. 48 Chevrolet, on Sonoma Raceway: “Sonoma has been a tough track for us in the past. Track position is huge here so it’ll be important to qualify well and execute our race to stay in it.”

Corey Day, driver of the No. 17 Chevrolet, on an eventful race in San Diego and preparing for Sonoma Raceway: “This past weekend was an unbelievable experience with my No. 17 HENDRICKCARS.COM team. We battled through so much adversity. From [running over a] manhole cover, to a bad pit stop, to getting spun out – it was just incredible the way everyone rallied to get us to the end and I’m super happy to have added another top 10 to the season. I’m excited for Sonoma, I’ve gotten laps there before and of course, it being my home track is really cool. Looking forward to seeing what my guys and I can do there.”

Front Row Motorsports: Sonoma Raceway NCS Race Advance (Noah Gragson, Todd Gilliland, Zane Smith)

Noah Gragson | Todd Gilliland | Zane Smith
Sonoma Raceway NASCAR Cup Series Race Advance
Sonoma Raceway 350

Date: Sunday, June 28, 2026
Event: Race 20 of 38
Series: NASCAR Cup Series
Location: Sonoma Raceway (1.99-miles)
#of Laps: 110
Time/TV/Radio: 3:30PM ET on TNT/PRN/SiriusXM channel 90

FRM Points Standings:

Zane Smith (23rd)
Todd Gilliland (25th)
Noah Gragson (29th)

Noah Gragson Notes

The second stop of the summer “West Coast swing” brings the NASCAR Cup Series to its annual visit at Sonoma Raceway, located in California’s wine country region. The event will mark Noah Gragon’s third NASCAR Cup Series start at the winding, 12-turn circuit. In his two previous starts in the series at Sonoma Raceway, Gragson has collected a best finish of 26th, occurring in the 2024 race. Although he has limited NASCAR Cup Series experience at the track, Gragson has been victorious in other top series. In 2019, he led 24 laps on his way to winning the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West event, holding off fellow now NASCAR Cup Series drivers Austin Dillon and Cole Custer, as well as NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series competitor Daniel Hemric, for the victory. In his three road course and street course starts in 2026, Gragson has an average finish of 26.3. His best result on that type of track this season is a 22nd place finish, coming at both Circuit of the Americas (Mar.) and Watkins Glen (May).

The first round of the NASCAR In-Season Challenge takes place this weekend at Sonoma Raceway. Noah Gragson, and the No. 4 team, will face Chase Elliott, and the No. 9 team, with the highest finishing driver advancing to the second round at Chicagoland Speedway, next week.

Front Row Motorsports will look to “hit big” again this weekend with Hard Rock Casino Tejon. The newest entertainment destination in California will be featured as primary sponsor on the No. 4 Ford Mustang Dark Horse at Sonoma Raceway, with driver Noah Gragson. Hard Rock Casino Tejon made its debut with Front Row Motorsports last weekend at Naval Base Coronado, leading 13 laps with Chandler Smith in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series event on Friday afternoon. As primary sponsor on Zane Smith’s No. 38 entry in the NASCAR Cup Series event on Sunday, Hard Rock Casino Tejon further solidified its kickoff weekend with a fourth-place result. Hard Rock Casino Tejon is the California home for gaming, entertainment and dining, including the famous Hard Rock Cafe and the Rock Shop. The facility features a 150,000-square-foot casino, with over 2,100 slot machines and more than 60 table games.

For the entire month, Hard Rock Casino Tejon is planning an action-packed lineup of racing-related activations, live watch parties and exclusive fan experiences, bringing guests closer to the thrill of race week than ever before. On Wednesday, June 24th, Hard Rock Casino Tejon will feature a full day of exclusive access and entertainment. Each of the Front Row Motorsports NASCAR Cup Series team haulers will be on-site, with the No. 38 Hard Rock Casino Tejon Ford Mustang also on display, fresh off the track in San Diego. Later in the day, SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90’s SiriusXM Speedway will broadcast live from the location, with Dave Moody and Angie Skinner. To wrap up the festivities, Noah Gragson and Zane Smith will stop in to hang out with fans before hitting the track at Sonoma Raceway this weekend. Fans are encouraged to visit Hard Rock Casino Tejon’s website and social media channels for more information on this week’s excitement.

“Sonoma is a very demanding track,” said Gragson. “With some very technical turns and the elevation changes, there is a lot going on inside the cars. There are a few good passing opportunities, but you also have to be patient. A slip up in those passing zones could ruin your day in a hurry. It’s a fun track because you have to be on offense, thinking about where your next move will come, while also constantly being on defense and protecting your position in those passing areas. Then you throw in strategy on top of that and it just always makes for a wild race that anyone can have a shot at.”

“We have a great week planned with everyone from Hard Rock Casino Tejon,” continued Gragson. “I’m looking forward to getting out to their location in Bakersfield (Cal.), wind down some after a long week in San Diego and spend some time with fans, before we head up to Sonoma. It’s hard to beat the weekend that their group had on the track in San Diego, but I’m excited to hopefully give them more to cheer about this weekend with our No. 4 car.”
Road Crew

Driver: Noah Gragson

Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada

Crew Chief: Grant Hutchens

Hometown: Omaha, Nebraska

Car Chief: Joey Forgette

Hometown: Iron Mountain, Michigan

Engineer: Dillon Silverman

Hometown: Chico, California

Engineer: Scott Bingham

Hometown: Lawrenceville, Georgia

Mechanic: Chris Trickett

Hometown: Grafton, West Virginia

Mechanic: Tony Infinger

Hometown: Fort Valley, Georgia

Tire Specialist: Chris Aunspaw

Hometown: Zelienople, Pennsylvania

Engine Tuner: Matt Moeller

Hometown: Monroe, New York

Spotter: Adam Fournier

Hometown: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Transporter Co-Driver: Ron Miske

Hometown: Fairfield, Connecticut

Transporter Co-Driver: Matt Murphy

Hometown: Augusta, Georgia

Pit Crew

Front Tire Changer: Tafton Hensley

Hometown: Mooresville, North Carolina

Rear Tire Changer: Sheridan Jones

Hometown: Norfolk, Virginia

Tire Carrier: Drew Baum

Hometown: Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania

Jackman: Tommy Bebie

Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio

Fueler: Blake Baker

Hometown: Hickory, North Carolina

Todd Gilliland Notes

Todd Gilliland heads to “wine country” this weekend for 110 laps at the Sonoma Raceway. In four previous NASCAR Cup Series starts at the 1.9-mile California road course, Gilliland’s best finish at the track occurred in 2024, finishing 10th in the event after starting 14th. This Sunday, Gilliland will face off against NASCAR Cup Series competitor, Daniel Suárez, in the Round of 32 of the NASCAR In-Season Challenge.

Love’s Travel Stops joins Gilliland and the No. 34 team for Sunday’s race. Love’s Travel Stops rolls out a major update to the Love’s App, introducing a unified Love’s Rewards program that now benefits every customer who stops at Love’s. Whether fueling up, grabbing a snack, or stocking up on Love’s-branded products, customers can now save and earn points at every turn simply by scanning the Love’s App in-store or at the pump. The new Love’s Rewards program focuses on delivering meaningful value at every stop and aims to make Love’s the first stop drivers think of on the road. Love’s Rewards App users can also save 10¢ per gallon on gas and up to 25¢ per gallon on auto diesel. Fans can download the app from Google Play and the Apple App Store. To explore all the new benefits of the Love’s Rewards program, visit www.loves.com/loves-rewards.

Gilliland and the No. 34 team will also have PEAK Performance on their Ford Mustang Dark Horse to promote PEAK’s exclusive line of PEAK products available at over 600 Love’s Travel Stops across the country. PEAK is a leader in automotive and heavy-duty products ranging from PEAK Global Antifreeze, Final Charge, PEAK Windshield Wash, and BlueDEF Diesel Exhaust Fluid. All products can be found at Love’s Travel Stops.

“This has been a fun, two weeks stretch on the West Coast,” said Gilliland. “We showed a lot of promise in San Diego, and even though it didn’t work out in our favor, there’s still a lot of positivity heading into Sonoma. Hopefully, we can qualify up front again and bring home a solid finish.”
Road Crew

Driver: Todd Gilliland

Hometown: Sherrills Ford, North Carolina

Crew Chief: Chris Lawson

Hometown: Medway, Ohio

Car Chief: Joe Marra

Hometown: Somers, New York

Engineer: Marc Rullo

Hometown: Ringwood, New Jersey

Engineer: Kevyn Rebolledo

Hometown: Mooresville, North Carolina

Spotter: Brit Andersen

Hometown: Branford, Connecticut

Mechanic: Michael Brookes

Hometown: Columbus, Ohio

Interior Specialist: Ethan Deguevara

Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada

Tire Specialist: Billy John

Hometown: Pitman, New Jersey

Mechanic / Engine Tuner: Kyle Moon

Hometown: Troy, New York

Transporter Co-Driver: Randy Bernier

Hometown: Mooresville, North Carolina

Transporter Co-Driver: Rick Grissom

Hometown: Bakersfield, California

Pit Crew

Front Tire Changer: Danny Olszowy

Hometown: Lexington, Kentucky

Rear Tire Changer: Austin Chrismon

Hometown: China Grove, North Carolina

Tire Carrier: Paul Steele

Hometown: Wichita, Kansas

Jackman: Ryan Selig

Hometown: Lindenhurst, Illinois

Fueler: Zeke Nance

Hometown: Calhoun, Georgia

Zane Smith Notes

After securing a fourth-place finish at Naval Base Coronado, Zane Smith and the No. 38 Ford Mustang Dark Horse team travel to Northern California and the Sonoma Raceway. Smith, a proven road-course racer, with back-to-back NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series wins at the Circuit of the Americas in 2022 and 2023, has three previous NASCAR Cup Series starts at the Sonoma Raceway. His best NASCAR Cup Series finish at the track happened in the 2024 event, where the Huntington Beach, California native finished 16th.

In the Round of 32 of the NASCAR In-Season Challenge, Zane Smith, as the 24th seed, will match up against Carson Hocevar, the 9th seed. The higher finishing driver will advance to the Round of 16.

Michael Roberts Construction (MRC) will return with Zane Smith and the No. 38 Ford Mustang Dark Horse team at Sonoma Raceway on June 28th, with a special scheme celebrating a new book written by the company’s founder and chief executive officer, Mike Avila, titled NOT TODAY: The Secret to Never Giving Up.

In 2002, Avila became the first racing-only athlete ever inducted into the Water Ski Hall of Fame, a distinction achieved despite suffering three separate career-ending injuries, including breaking his neck three times and experiencing paralysis. Each time that he experienced setbacks, he returned to competition and continued to win.

“Mike’s story is one that everyone needs to hear,” said Smith. “He wasn’t going to let his accident define who he was, and, by taking it one day at a time, he overcame something that most people couldn’t. He helped kick-start my career, too, and has always been someone that I can lean on. Hopefully, I can repay him with a solid run in Sonoma.”

“We’re getting closer and closer to earning a Cup Series win,” Smith continued. “The vibes are high at the shop, and we’re bringing some solid momentum to the racetrack to where we are legitimate contenders. If we continue on this track, we will be winners in no time.”

Road Crew

Driver: Zane Smith

Hometown: Huntington Beach, California

Crew Chief: Ryan Bergenty

Hometown: Plainville, Connecticut

Car Chief: Will Norris

Hometown: Bells, Tennessee

Engineer: Jacob Clamme

Hometown: Hartford City, Indiana

Engineer: Chris Yerges

Hometown: Green Bay, Wisconsin

Mechanic / Engine Tuner: Steve Godfrey

Hometown: West Haven, Connecticut

Interior Specialist: Matt Fowler

Hometown: Spartanburg, South Carolina

Mechanic: Austin Bloom

Hometown: Lowell, Oregon

Spotter: Ryan Blanchard

Hometown: Bethlehem, Connecticut

Transport Co-Driver: Bryan Whitman

Hometown: Newton, North Carolina

Transport Co-Driver: Shawn Sellew

Hometown: Stafford Springs, Connecticut

Pit Crew

Front Tire Changer: Michael Louria

Hometown: Gibraltar, Michigan

Rear Tire Changer: Adam Riley

Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia

Tire Carrier: Jarren Davis

Hometown: Jacksonville, Florida

Jackman: Nate McBride

Hometown: Vidalia, Georgia

Fueler: Ray Hernandez

Hometown: Orlando, Florida

HARD ROCK CASINO TEJON

Hard Rock Casino Tejon is located less than 15 miles south of Bakersfield on Tejon Indian tribal land in Mettler, California. The 150,000-square-foot entertainment destination features over 2,100 slot machines, more than 60 table games, multiple dining venues, and Hard Rock’s signature music-inspired atmosphere. The property represents a significant economic and cultural investment for the Tejon Indian Tribe and the broader Kern County region. For more information, visit casino.hardrock.com/tejon.

ABOUT HARD ROCK INTERNATIONAL

Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in nearly 80 countries spanning more than 300 venues including owned/licensed or managed Hotels, Casinos, Rock Shops®, Live Performance Locations and Cafes. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world’s largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia with more than 88,000 pieces displayed at locations around the globe. The Unity™ by Hard Rock global loyalty program rewards members for doing the things they love across participating properties. In addition, Hard Rock Digital spotlights the sports betting and iGaming experience with products remixed in the spirit of Hard Rock for players worldwide.

HRI has received numerous industry, destination and workplace awards across the travel, hospitality, gaming, entertainment and food & beverage sectors. HRI currently holds investment grades from primary investment-grade rating agencies: S&P Global Ratings (BBB) and Fitch Ratings (BBB). For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com or shop.hardrock.com.

ABOUT LOVE’S TRAVEL STOPS

Love’s has been fueling customers’ journeys since 1964. Innovation and perseverance continue to lead the way for the family-owned and -operated business headquartered in Oklahoma City with more than 40,000 team members in North America and Europe. The company’s core business is travel stops and convenience stores with 640 locations in 42 states. Love’s continues its commitment to offer products and services that provide value for professional drivers, fleets, four-wheel customers, RVers, alternative fuel and wholesale fuel customers. Giving back to communities Love’s serves and maintaining an inclusive and diverse workplace are hallmarks of the company’s award-winning culture.

ABOUT MICHAEL ROBERTS CONSTRUCTION, INC.

MRC (Michael Roberts Construction, Inc.) is one of Northern California’s preeminent commercial contractors with expertise in private and public general construction projects from new, ground up buildings to commercial building tenant improvements and renovating existing facilities in all building categories. For more information, visit https://mrcbuilt.com/.

ABOUT FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS

Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization competing in the NASCAR Cup Series and the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. Founded in 2004 by entrepreneur Bob Jenkins, FRM has earned top honors including a 2021 Daytona 500 victory and the 2022 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series championship. Based in Mooresville, N.C., FRM fields the No. 4, No. 34, and No. 38 entries in the NASCAR Cup Series, along with the No. 34 and No. 38 teams in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. For more information, visit FrontRowMotorsports.com and follow Front Row Motorsports on social media — X: @Team_FRM, Instagram: @teamfrm, Tik Tok: @Team_FRM, YouTube: @FrontRowNASCAR, and Facebook: facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

Race-Day Reliability Lessons for Heavy-Duty Truck Buyers

In motorsport, reliability is built before race day. The same thinking applies to fleet buyers sourcing refurbished heavy-duty trucks. A truck that looks clean in photos still needs verified inspection, transparent refurbishment, export-ready documents, and practical parts support before it can become a dependable working asset.

Race teams understand that performance is not only about speed. It is about preparation, repeatability, and reducing preventable failure. Every component must be checked before the vehicle is pushed under pressure. Commercial truck buyers may operate far from the track, but their vehicles face their own version of race-day stress: long routes, heavy loads, rough roads, tight schedules, and costly downtime.

For buyers in construction, mining, logistics, fuel distribution, port transport, and infrastructure work, the right sourcing process can make the difference between a truck that starts earning quickly and one that creates repair problems immediately after arrival.

Inspection Should Start Before Shipment

A racecar is never judged only by its paintwork. It is inspected, warmed up, tested, adjusted, and checked again. Heavy-duty truck buyers should use the same discipline before a refurbished vehicle leaves the supplier’s yard.

A proper pre-shipment inspection should confirm the truck’s real condition, not just its appearance. Buyers should ask for cold-start video, engine idle checks, acceleration response, gearbox shifting, braking performance, steering condition, tire status, frame inspection, cab function, lighting, suspension, air system, and hydraulic operation, where relevant.

Different truck types need different checks. A dump truck should show controlled body lifting and lowering. A tractor head should have the fifth wheel, rear axle, air brake system, electrical connector, and tire condition inspected. A fuel or water tanker should be checked for tank structure, pump operation, manhole covers, discharge valves, pipeline sealing, and basic safety fittings.

This process does not make a used truck new. It makes the condition clearer. That clarity is valuable because it helps buyers compare real working readiness instead of comparing photos and prices alone.

Refurbishment Must Be More Than Cosmetic Work

Refurbished HOWO tractor heads are prepared for pre-shipment inspection, with checks covering tire condition, chassis condition, cab function, and export readiness

Fresh paint can improve presentation, but it does not prove a truck is ready for heavy work. Real refurbishment should focus on the systems that affect daily operation: engine condition, gearbox response, clutch performance, braking reliability, tire life, chassis strength, cooling system, electrical function, hydraulic movement, and cab usability.

The best refurbishment process is transparent. Buyers should know what has been repaired, replaced, serviced, repainted, tested, or left unchanged. A supplier should be able to explain whether the engine has been serviced, whether filters and fluids were changed, whether tires are new or used, whether the cab interior was repaired, and whether the chassis was cleaned and checked for cracks or corrosion.

This matters especially in harsh-condition markets. Trucks used on quarry roads, mining sites, construction projects, rural transport routes, and port yards often face dust, heat, overloaded roads, and repeated stop-start operation. A truck prepared only for appearance may fail quickly in those conditions. A truck refurbished around mechanical reliability has a better chance of staying productive.

Total Cost Matters More Than the First Price

In racing, the cheapest part is not always the lowest-cost part. If it fails during a race, it can cost the team points, repairs, and lost opportunity. Fleet operators face a similar calculation.

A lower-priced truck may look attractive at first, but hidden costs can appear after delivery. Tires may need replacement. Brake parts may need repair. Hydraulic hoses may leak. The clutch may slip under load. The cab may need rewiring. The engine may require service earlier than expected. Each issue adds cost, but the bigger loss is usually downtime.

That is why buyers should evaluate the total cost of ownership, not only the purchase price. The real cost includes truck price, inland transport, ocean freight, import handling, registration, fuel consumption, tires, maintenance, parts availability, repair labor, downtime risk, and resale value.

A slightly higher-priced truck with verified inspection, stronger tires, cleaner chassis, tested drivetrain, and reliable export preparation can be a better investment than the cheapest unit available. The goal is not to buy the lowest quote. The goal is to buy the truck that can work sooner, stay working longer, and create fewer surprises after arrival.

Parts Support Keeps Working Trucks Productive

A race vehicle without parts support is only competitive until something breaks. Commercial trucks are no different. Even a well-prepared refurbished truck will eventually need filters, belts, hoses, brake parts, clutch parts, lights, bearings, tires, seals, and hydraulic components.

Before choosing a truck, buyers should consider whether the model is familiar in their local market. A truck with a widely used engine, common drivetrain, and accessible service parts is easier to maintain than a rare model with limited support. This is one reason many buyers prefer proven heavy-duty platforms for demanding operations.

Parts planning should begin before shipment. Buyers can request a basic spare parts package with filters, belts, brake components, lamps, hydraulic seals, or other wear items. For trucks working in mining, construction, fuel transport, or remote logistics, having common service parts available can prevent a small repair from becoming a long shutdown.

For example, buyers comparing refurbished HOWO trucks from China often look beyond horsepower and price. They also consider engine familiarity, axle strength, mechanical simplicity, local mechanic experience, and long-term parts availability in the destination market.

Export Preparation Is Part of Quality Control

A truck is not fully ready when the workshop work is finished. It still needs to pass through inland transport, port handling, vessel loading, sea freight, discharge, customs clearance, and final delivery. Poor export preparation can create delays even when the truck itself is in good condition.

Before shipment, buyers should confirm chassis number, engine number, invoice details, packing or loading photos, consignee information, shipping method, destination port, and document consistency. The bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing details, inspection records, and vehicle identification information should match clearly.

Loading preparation also matters. Tire pressure, battery condition, fuel level, loose items, cab locking, and basic protective steps should be checked before the vehicle enters the port. For bulk or Ro-Ro shipment, the truck must be ready for port movement. For flat-rack shipment, dimensions, weight, and lashing points must be confirmed carefully.

Many delivery problems are caused not by mechanical failure, but by document errors, unclear inspection records, poor loading communication, or weak coordination between the seller, forwarder, port, and buyer. A reliable export process reduces these risks.

The Truck Must Match the Work

A well-prepared truck can still be the wrong choice if it does not match the job. Fleet buyers should select the vehicle according to payload, road condition, distance, steering side, fuel type, horsepower, axle configuration, and local maintenance environment.

A 6×4 dump truck may be suitable for construction hauling, quarry support, or roadwork. An 8×4 dump truck may be preferred for heavier payloads where road conditions and local regulations allow it. A tractor head pulling container trailers has different requirements from one pulling a fuel tanker or lowbed trailer. A water tanker used for dust suppression needs pump and spray system checks that would not matter on a cargo truck.

Before ordering, buyers should share the working application, destination country, destination port, preferred horsepower, steering requirement, expected load, road condition, and available maintenance resources. This allows the supplier to recommend a truck that fits the operating environment instead of simply selling the unit that is easiest to ship.

The best sourcing decision is practical. It balances condition, specification, budget, logistics, and support.

Conclusion: Preparation Creates Reliability

Motorsport teams do not rely on luck. They rely on inspection, documentation, preparation, testing, and support. Heavy-duty truck buyers can reduce risk by using the same mindset.

A refurbished truck does not have to be new to be valuable. It does, however, need to be honestly inspected, properly refurbished, clearly documented, and matched to the work it will perform. Buyers who focus only on the lowest price may save money at the beginning but pay more through repairs, delays, and downtime.

The better approach is to treat truck sourcing as a reliability process. Verify the condition before shipment. Understand the refurbishment work. Calculate total cost, not just purchase price. Confirm parts support. Check export documents. Match the truck to the job.

That is how a used heavy-duty truck becomes more than an imported vehicle. It becomes a working asset ready for the road, the site, the yard, or the route it was bought to serve.

About the Author

Bruce Li is an export consultant at Qingdao Alston Motors Co., Ltd, a China-based supplier of refurbished HOWO trucks, semi trailers, and commercial transport equipment. His work focuses on helping buyers in Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and South America source suitable vehicles for construction, mining, logistics, fuel transport, and infrastructure projects.

NASCAR and The Rolling Stones Team Up for a First-of-Its-Kind Collaboration Celebrating the Spirit of Life on the Road

Officially licensed Rolling Stones X NASCAR merchandise, special-edition collector vinyl and a custom listening lounge bring racing and rock & roll together

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (June 24, 2026) – NASCAR and The Rolling Stones today announced a first-of-its-kind collaboration celebrating two cultural icons built on performance and life on the road.

Launching ahead of the July 10 release of Foreign Tongues, The Rolling Stones’ highly anticipated new studio album, the collaboration brings together the worlds of racing and rock & roll through officially licensed merchandise, special-edition collector vinyl, original content and a one-of-a-kind fan experience in Chicago.

At the center of the campaign is an immersive NASCAR show car transformed into a Rolling Stones listening lounge, giving fans an opportunity to experience music from Foreign Tongues inside a custom-designed vehicle that blends racing culture with the band’s legendary aesthetic. The activation will travel to key Chicago locations leading into NASCAR’s Chicagoland race weekend.

“For generations, NASCAR and The Rolling Stones have captivated fans through unforgettable live experiences and a shared spirit of performance,” said Megan Malayter, NASCAR Vice President of Licensing and Consumer Products. “While one takes place on the racetrack and the other on the stage, both are fueled by passion, energy and life on the road. This collaboration brings those worlds together in a unique way, giving fans exclusive content, limited-edition collectible vinyl’s and immersive experiences that celebrate the connection between racing and rock & roll.”

The collaboration includes:

  • NASCAR x The Rolling Stones merchandise collection featuring co-branded apparel headlined by the signature NASCAR racing jacket
  • Two Limited-edition NASCAR-themed collector vinyl editions of Foreign Tongues
  • A custom NASCAR listening lounge show car appearing throughout Chicago leading into NASCAR Chicagoland race weekend, July 4-5
  • Original content highlighting the parallels between professional drivers and touring musicians

The campaign launches with a hero film featuring NASCAR drivers Jesse Love, Connor Zilisch and Carson Hocevar alongside creator and driver Cleetus McFarland. Set music from Foreign Tongues, the film reimagines the drivers as a touring rock band, drawing connections between life on tour and life on the NASCAR schedule. Blending racing imagery with rock-and-roll storytelling, the film serves as the creative centerpiece of a campaign designed to bring fans inside the worlds of both NASCAR and The Rolling Stones.

Fans in Chicago will have the opportunity to experience the NASCAR x The Rolling Stones Racing Record Player, a listening experience that is fueled by rock and roll, at select locations ahead of race weekend, including Navy Pier, Plaza of the Americas and the Chicagoland Speedway Fan Zone.

Foreign Tongues arrives Friday, July 10 via Capitol Records and follows the band’s Grammy Award-winning album Hackney Diamonds.

For more information and to shop the NASCAR x The Rolling Stones collection, visit NASCARShop.com or https://therollingstonesshop.com/collections/nascar, or find it trackside during NASCAR’s Chicagoland race weekend.

Tune in this Sunday, June 28 as the NASCAR Cup Series shifts to TNT platforms for the Toyota / Save Mart 350 live from Sonoma Raceway at 3:30 p.m. ET. The race also marks the first race of the 2026 In-Season Challenge where Tyler Reddick and Denny Hamlin are the top two seeds, respectively. In addition to TNT, the race will also air live on HBO Max, PRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

About NASCAR

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 14 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Series, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Euro Series, NASCAR Mexico Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Local Racing Series Powered by O’Reilly Auto Parts). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in five cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 11 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.

For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, X and Facebook.

About The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones are one of the most iconic and influential bands in rock & roll history. Formed in London in 1962, they’ve defined the sound and spirit of rock for over six decades. With timeless hits like “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” “Gimme Shelter,” and “Start Me Up,” the Stones have sold over 200 million records and continue to draw massive crowds around the world.

Their classic albums—from Beggars Banquet to Exile on Main Street—are landmarks of 20th-century music, while their high-energy live performances have set the gold standard for generations. In recent years, they’ve shown no signs of slowing down, with Grammy-winning album Hackney Diamonds (2023), as well as upcoming new album Foreign Tongues out July 10, 2026, proving their continued relevance and creative fire.

Led by Mick JaggerKeith Richards, and Ronnie Wood, and carrying on the legacy of the late Charlie Watts, the Stones remain a creative force—still touring, still recording, and still proving why they’re called The Greatest Rock and Roll Band in the World.