School of Hot Rod

Petersen Automotive Museum - Trans Am Display

2009-12-13T07:19:00.000-08:00

http://blog.schoolofhotrod.com/2009/12/13/petersen-automotive-museum--trans-am-display.aspx

Viper SRT10 Lives As Ultimate American Sports Car

2009-12-02T06:59:00.000-08:00

Andretti AutoSport Sign Danica Patrick to Multi-Year Deal

2009-11-30T06:52:00.000-08:00

http://blog.schoolofhotrod.com/2009/11/30/andretti-autosport-sign-danica-patrick-to-multiyear-deal.aspx

VODAFONE McLAREN MERCEDES SIGNS REIGNING WORLD CHAMPION JENSON BUTTON TO MULTI-YEAR DEAL

2009-11-29T17:59:00.000-08:00

http://blog.schoolofhotrod.com/2009/11/19/vodafone-mclaren-mercedes-signs-reigning-world-champion-jenson-button-to-multiyear-deal.aspx

Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Production Dates Confirmed

2009-11-29T17:58:00.000-08:00

http://blog.schoolofhotrod.com/2009/11/27/chevrolet-camaro-convertible-production-dates-confirmed.aspx

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2009-11-29T17:57:00.001-08:00

http://blog.schoolofhotrod.com/2009/11/27/2011-jeep-grand-cherokee.aspx

2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe

2009-11-29T17:57:00.000-08:00

http://blog.schoolofhotrod.com/2009/11/27/2011-cadillac-cts-coupe.aspx

Subaru Introduces 2010 Impreza WRX STi Special Edition

2009-11-29T17:56:00.000-08:00

http://blog.schoolofhotrod.com/2009/11/27/subaru-introduces-2010-impreza-wrx-sti-special-edition.aspx

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG to Debut at L.A. Auto Show

2009-11-29T17:55:00.000-08:00

http://blog.schoolofhotrod.com/2009/11/27/mercedesbenz-sls-amg-to-debut-at-la-auto-show.aspx

2011 Chevrolet Cruze: Unveiled at LA Auto Show

2009-11-29T17:54:00.000-08:00

http://blog.schoolofhotrod.com/2009/11/29/2011-chevrolet-cruze-unveiled-at-la-auto-show.aspx

2011 Ford Mustang 7000 RPM Redline 305 HP and 30 MPG

2009-11-29T17:52:00.000-08:00

http://blog.schoolofhotrod.com/2009/11/29/2011-ford-mustang-7000-rpm-redline-305-hp-and-30-mpg.aspx

SOHR Camping World Truck Series Dreams

2009-11-13T16:49:00.000-08:00

Special thanks to Andrew Olsen for this inspiring art.

If you remember the '80's ....sorry.

2009-11-13T13:19:00.000-08:00

Ford Announces All-New Police Interceptor

2009-11-13T09:42:00.000-08:00

FORD ANNOUNCES DEVELOPMENT OF ALL-NEW POLICE INTERCEPTOR

Ford confirms development plans of an all-new Ford Police Interceptor and affirms continued commitment to the police and municipal vehicle businesses

New Police Interceptor's durability, safety and performance will exceed the existing Crown Victoria's law enforcement vehicle lineup

Ford is the market leader in the law enforcement vehicle segment, selling 45,000 of the 60,000 police vehicles sold in each year in the U.S.

Ford Motor Company announced today it will produce an all-new purpose-built Police Interceptor specially designed and engineered to replace the Ford Crown Victoria law enforcement vehicle lineup in 2011.

The new Ford Police Interceptor is being developed in conjunction with Ford's Police Advisory Board, which provided input during the past 14 months on key vehicle attributes, such as safety, performance, durability, driver convenience and comfort. The new Police Interceptor will be offered without interruption when production of the Ford Crown Victoria ends in late 2011.

"We have heard the repeated requests from the law enforcement community to continue uninterrupted support of the law enforcement community," said Mark Fields, Ford's president of The Americas. "Ford is answering the call with the new Police Interceptor – engineered and built in America."

Ford which currently controls approximately 75 percent of the police pursuit vehicle business in the U.S. has invested significantly in designing the purpose-built new police and municipal vehicles to meet the needs of these crucial customers. The new Police Interceptor is designed to provide municipalities with reduced ownership costs through improved fuel efficiency, quality and the kind of durability police departments nationwide have come to expect from Ford.

"Ford's commitment to the law enforcement community produced the Crown Victoria, the benchmark police vehicle," said Lt. Brian Moran, fleet manager, Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and a member of Ford's Police Advisory Board. "This commitment has continued, and Ford has been working closely with the Police Advisory Board on developing the new Police Interceptor. I am confident that the next-generation Ford police vehicle will meet the future needs of the law enforcement community and will set the new standard."Ford plans to reveal the new model and provide full vehicle specifications in the first quarter of 2010 – in time for law enforcement agencies, police equipment manufacturers and upfitters to develop a transition plan from the Crown Victoria to the new product.

Each year, Ford sells approximately 45,000 police vehicles, making the Blue Oval the nation's largest provider of police and municipal vehicles."Ford long has supported our public servants with vehicles that work as hard as they do," said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, Marketing, Sales and Service. "We intend to build on this legacy with a new generation of municipal and police vehicles that set even higher standards."

Audi looks to Facebook for Inspiration

2009-11-13T09:31:00.000-08:00

Audi turns to social media for inspiration at 2009 LA Design Challenge
Ideas derived from Facebook community of nearly 400,000 fans

Online videos showcased decisions that led to final designs
End result: Audi eSpira and Audi eOra which perform as extensions of the driver’s body

Audi today released the final social media video installment documenting behind-the-scenes considerations that shaped its entries in this year’s Los Angeles Design Challenge, a competition associated with the upcoming L.A. Auto Show involving Southern California automotive studios.

As part of the design process, the Audi design team leveraged social media as an interactive forum through which to solicit consumer insights. Using the Audi Facebook page as a central hub, the team was able to engage Audi fans – and regular Facebook users alike - in a variety of ways, including discussion threads, polls and feedback on photos and videos. This resulted in an active conversation between the Audi designers and the consumers they were targeting.

With its nearly 400,000 fans, the Audi Facebook audience is composed of passionate brand enthusiasts who have a mutual affinity for automobiles. They yielded feedback for the design team that proved uniquely thoughtful. Additionally, the broader Facebook community was welcome to participate as well, increasing the potential input. Collectively, Facebook participants played a key role in shaping the design and functionality of the Audi models submitted for the competition.

Case in point: the prevalence of communications tools in the final Audi designs. When engaging with Facebook users for input on the topic of connectivity, the Audi Design Team received overwhelming demand to stay in touch with users’ digital worlds – even behind the wheel. Taking this insight to heart, the design team developed a driving experience that, while solitary, enabled seamless communication through a host of channels including messaging and social networking integration via mobile broadband.

In fact, a large number of design elements in the final products can be credited to Facebook users.

“Often, we’d encounter decisions in which both options had merit from a design perspective,” said Jae Min, Chief Designer, Design Center, California. “In those instances, it was especially useful to field input from the Facebook users. After reviewing the feedback, we would eventually notice a consensus formed among the community which shaped our final designs.”

The theme of this year’s competition, titled “YouthMobile 2030,” asked design teams to envision automobiles appealing to young people of the future. Many major automakers participate in this annual competition that challenges their respective California design studios to push the limits of their expertise and imagination.

The Audi Design Team developed two complementary models meeting these criteria: the accessible Audi eOra and the aspirational Audi eSpira. Both cars function as extensions of one’s body and its senses. Using next generation vehicle control logic, they take even the smallest body movements and gestures of the driver into consideration to provide an unsurpassed command of the drive. The sportier era has a smaller footprint has unmatched agility.

Participating Facebook fans said having a stake in the design of these groundbreaking vehicles was empowering and rewarding. While engagement through social media is nothing new, transcending the virtual world to create something tangible is more novel for brands.

“It was really nice to see that Audi cared enough to listen, “ said Joe Zamani an active member of the Audi community on Facebook who participated in the regular Design Challenge queries on the page. “The fact that they felt our opinions were worth taking to heart was encouraging. It shows what a valuable resource social media can be when ideas are turned into something real.”

The Los Angeles Design Challenge results will be revealed on December 3, 2009 during the L.A. Auto Show.

The latest Audi web video captures the final stretch of the Los Angeles Design Challenge and the Audi design team’s creation process. Audi partnered with entertainment and marketing production agency Trailer Park to create the video.

Camaro Z/28 Program Green Lighted

2009-11-12T16:36:00.000-08:00

Supercharged 556hp Camaro to take on Shelby GT500

GM design chief Ed Welburn has confirmed that the Camaro Z28 program is back on track. The Z28 was basically completed, with the design signed off, but the final engineering and certification work was put on hold as GM's financial situation spun out of control.

With GM now out of bankruptcy, the Z28 program has been restarted. Why? Insiders say the Z28 business case now makes sense because the new UAW contracts have reduced the labor costs on the car to the point where GM feels it can price it competitively and far enough away from Corvette.

That's the good news. The bad news is EPA certification and GM durability requirements mean the Z28 is unlikely to go on sale until late 2011. Images are very close to the final signed-off design, based on photos of a scale clay model. Key details to note are the deeper front bumper fascia, with larger front aperture under the grille and the spotlights mounted in deep vents on either side. The Z28 also gets a different grille mesh compared with that of a standard Camaro.At the rear is a taller lip spoiler that runs the full width of the car. A new rear-bumper fascia features a deeper section with integrated exhaust outlets. The wheels are 20-inchers with an aggressive "tuning-fork" five-spoke pattern. A new hood features a large, forward-facing scoop.

Underneath is the 6.2-liter supercharged LSA V-8 that also powers the Cadillac CTS-V. As we have already confirmed, this is quite a powerplant, delivering 556 horsepower at 6100 rpm and 551 pound-feet of torque at 3800 rpm.The near-4300-pound CTS-V thunders from 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds and nails the quarter mile in 12.3 seconds with the automatic or 12.4 seconds in the 6 speed. Top speed with the manual will storm to an autobahn melting 193 mph. As the Z/28 will weigh 200 to 300 pounds less than the CTS-V, it may nail 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and run the quarter in the very low 12s.

This Z28 could be the fastest Chevy ponycar since the legendary ZL-1-powered COPO 9560 Camaros built 40 years ago.

Real cars, real rivalries, real racing?

2009-11-12T12:18:00.000-08:00

It has been reported that the Dodge Challenger and Ford Mustang will possibly be entering the 2010 NASCAR Nationwide Series. This is to stir up interest in the series again to get the attendance back up. The interesting part of the news is a redesign of the NASCAR racecars designed to bring back the Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge and now Toyota rivalries to the track both on and off.

But will it?

NASCAR Weekend Preview

2009-11-12T11:30:00.000-08:00

The Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup heads to Phoenix International Raceway this week, for Sunday’s Checker O’Reilly Auto Parts 500 Presented By Pennzoil the ninth event in the Chase. That will be the capper of a national series tripleheader weekend at the 1-mile track.

NASCAR CAMPING WORLD TRUCK SERIES

The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series will roll on to Phoenix International Raceway for the Lucas Oil 150 this Friday night. Phoenix is the site of the series’ first race in 1995. Mike Skinner won the inaugural event and again the following year. Other former winners expected to compete include Ron Hornaday Jr., Kevin Harvick, David Starr, Todd Bodine, and Kyle Busch. Hornaday’s Clinch Scenarios Become Clearer. Hornaday is on the verge of history, as he attempts to become the first ever four-time NASCAR Camping World Truck Series champion.

Here’s his clinch scenario: To clinch at Phoenix, Ron Hornaday needs to lead by 195 points after the race. If Hornaday wins at Phoenix, he'll clinch no matter what any other driver does. To clinch at Homestead, Hornaday needs to average a 22nd place finish over the final two races, or 23rd and lead at least one lap in each of the final two races, or 25th and lead the most laps in each of the final two races. If he does that, he'll clinch no matter what any other driver does.

Busch And Ballew Continue To Close In On Owner’s Title
With Kyle Busch’s win at Texas, his fifth in as many starts, Billy Ballew and the No. 51 team cut even further into the lead of DeLana Harvick and the No. 33 team of Ron Horanday Jr. in the battle for the owner’s title. Ballew is 75 points behind Harvick as they head into the penultimate race of the season. Should Ballew win the title, it would mark the first time in the series’ 15-year history that the owner’s championship did not belong to the driver champion team.

NASCAR NATIONWIDE SERIES
Kyle’s Party Could Start Early. He’s been waiting for this moment since he made his first NASCAR national series start on Aug. 3, 2001 in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. Saturday at Phoenix, Kyle Busch could lay claim to his first national series title. To clinch the 2009 NASCAR Nationwide Series championship at Phoenix, Busch needs to lead by 195 points after the race. To guarantee that, he needs to place at least 15th, or 16th with at least one lap led, or 18th and the most laps led. His lead entering Phoenix is 272 over second-place Carl Edwards. However, these scenarios could change due to an infraction on the No. 18 Toyota discovered Friday during pre-race inspection at Texas (weight issues). The penalty won’t be released until Tuesday at the earliest. Check back for updated information. If he’s not able to clinch at Phoenix, again prior to any penalty announcement, his clinch at Homestead-Miami would entail an average finish of 34th over the final two races, or a 36th place finish and a lap led in each of the final two races, or a 38th place finish and the most laps led in each of the final two races. If he does that, he'll clinch no matter what any other driver does.

NASCAR SPRINT CUP SERIES
The Chase, Week 9. Jimmie Johnson’s chances of a record fourth-straight championship absorbed a body blow at Texas – but by no means was it a knockout. An early-race crash led to a 38th-place finish for Johnson and a seemingly safe lead in the points is down to 73 over second-place Mark Martin, with two races remaining on the schedule. The largest deficit ever overcome with two races remaining is 85 points. In 1992, Alan Kulwicki leapfrogged two drivers – Bill Elliott and Davey Allison – with two races to go to win the championship.

As the season comes to a close, the championship picture starts to come into focus. To clinch at Homestead, two races away, Johnson needs to average a fourth-place finish over the final two races, or fifth and a lap led in each of the final two races, or sixth and the most laps led in each of the final two races. If he does that, he'll clinch no matter what any other driver does. He can mathematically clinch at Phoenix, though the task is a tough one. To clinch Sunday, Johnson needs to leave Phoenix with a 195-point lead over second place. Currently up 73 points, he’ll need to gain 122 points in Sunday’s race.

His suddenly precarious lead aside, Johnson has to like the fact that he’ll be in Phoenix this week. He has won three of the last four PIR races. Johnson won the fall race at Phoenix in 2007, then swept last year’s two races. Johnson also has the top pre-race Driver Rating at Phoenix – by a wide margin. His 120.0 rating is 17.6 points ahead of second-best Kurt Busch’s 102.4.

Excuse me, 1104-hp supercar?

2009-11-11T17:11:00.000-08:00

This supercar is powered by a mid-mounted Chevrolet Corvette Z06–sourced 7.0-liter V-8. Although it retains the Z06’s six-speed manual transmission, the ST1 engine has been twincharged turbocharged and supercharged to the tune of 1104 hp and 1055 lb-ft of torque. Fortunately, traction control is included. Weighing just over 3000 pounds, the ST1 can reportedly hit 62 mph in three seconds flat and reach an electronically limited top speed of 232 mph.

2010 COBRA JET Mustang FR500CJ

2009-11-10T21:41:00.000-08:00

Since its victorious introduction at the NHRA Winternationals in 1968, Ford's Cobra Jet Mustang has created a legacy of power, performance and triumph.

The 40th Anniversary 2008 Cobra Jet Mustang lived up to the legend of the original, duplicating the NHRA Winternationals victory in 2009 and dominating drag strips across the land.

Ford Racing has unveiled the 2010 Cobra Jet Mustang which marks the continued evolution of the CJ as a factory-produced turnkey race car. In honor of the SEMA introduction, Ford Racing built and unveiled a one-of-a-kind "SEMA Special" silver Cobra Jet complete with a charcoal Cobra Jet graphics package.

"The 2008 Cobra Jet was a great car, it did everything we wanted it to do," said Brian Wolfe, director, Ford North American Motorsports. "We're really proud of the car, but then again we're always trying to make the next one better.

"With the 2010 Cobra Jet, we had the luxury of a longer development cycle and the result is absolutely stunning. Where the 2008 Cobra Jet was an extremely potent starting point for NHRA Stock competition, the 2010 will enhance the car further. We are all excited to see the new Cobra Jet in competition."

For decades, the Mustang has been the preeminent car in many forms of racing, including drag racing. The 2008 Cobra Jet Mustang added to that legacy this season with high- profile wins at the NHRA Winternationals and U.S. Nationals, and by setting numerous track records across the country.

The 2010 Cobra Jet, like its predecessor, is a factory-built race car that is intended for NHRA Stock and Super Stock racing. The goal for the 2010 Cobra Jet was to enhance the race features to further make its own place in NHRA history. The 2010 CJ will come with all of the features of the 2008 car with enhancements that include options for a full race-prepared automatic or manual transmission, drag race-specific shocks and springs, manual steering and brakes, 8.50 certified rollcage, and an Aeromitive return-style fuel system with trunk-mounted fuel cell. Additionally Ford Racing engineers have developed for the 2010 Cobra Jet a factory-first launch control/rev limiter that will allow drivers to preset the rpm after they stage the car. When they are ready to leave, all they do is put the throttle pedal to the floor; they don't have the engine speed to free rev. Previously, the launch control/rev limiter was only available as an aftermarket option.

Much like Ford Racing's previous Mustang FR500S race car, the Cobra Jet Mustang will get its start at the Auto Alliance International (AAI) assembly plant in Flat Rock, Mich. The entire 50-car run of 2010 Cobra Jets will be built on the same production line that produces the 2010 Ford Mustang production car. Production of Cobra Jets will commence in January, with delivery of all vehicles expected in the first quarter of 2010.

All of the additional parts and pieces for the CJ can be found in the Ford Performance Parts catalog. And since the Cobra Jet is produced from a base V-6 Mustang, any consumer can turn his Mustang into a Cobra Jet by purchasing the parts from the Ford Performance Parts catalog.

'10 4Runner set for the SCORE Baja 1000

2009-11-10T21:29:00.000-08:00

Toyota will make history by entering its 2010 Model Year Fifth Generation 4Runner in the internationally renowned SCORE Baja 1000. With over 672 miles in length and a time limit of 31 hours, the Baja 1000 is one of the toughest desert races in the world.

Over 325 entries are expected from around the world to compete in the 42nd Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 – the last desert race of the season scheduled for November 20-21, in Ensenada, Mexico.

Toyota will test its newest 4Runner and showcase the SUV's capabilities and durability in the Mexican desert's treacherous terrain. "Historically, only half of the racers finish this incredible test of man and machine, but we're confident the Fifth Generation 4Runner will be a major contender in the stock mini class and can handle the grueling course", said Les Unger, Toyota's national motorsports manager.

One of the scheduled drivers will be the legendary Ivan "Ironman" Stewart – 22-time SCORE Baja race winner. Stewart has successfully conquered the toughest obstacles in off-road racing and was inducted into the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2006. "I'm thrilled to have been chosen to be one of the drivers to once again prove the toughness and durability of Toyota vehicles. I'm sure the Fifth Generation 4Runner will be tough enough to survive even my Iron foot", said Stewart. Co-driving the 4Runner will be the teams of Bob Ditner/Zach Zwillinger from the start line to Borrego Junction, Ken Ziesemer/Mark Sasaki throughout the San Felipe loop, Joe Nolan/Paul Williamsen from Borrego to Valle De La Trinidad, and Ivan Stewart/Bob Ditner from Valle De La Trinidad to the finish line.

The 4Runner will run on General Tires and utilize the famous Baja Pits Organization throughout the course.

Hurst Competition Plus Charger

2009-11-10T14:13:00.002-08:00

If you know me, you know how much I like it.

2010 SHELBY GT500 PACKS MORE PUNCH

2009-11-09T17:14:00.000-08:00

2010 FORD SHELBY GT500 PACKS MORE POWERFUL PUNCH

2010 Ford Shelby GT500: Racing stripes are available for the first time on the convertible model of the 2010 Shelby GT500.

Ford’s Special Vehicle Team delivers a more powerful 2010 Shelby GT500 with horsepower increased 540, torque increased to 510 ft.-lb., downforce increased and drag reduced. New gearbox enhancements, plus a standard 3.55:1 rear axle ratio, mean the 2010 Shelby GT500 will deliver improved acceleration performance, while providing better highway fuel efficiency – up 2 mpg compared with the outgoing model. Aggressive new exterior design features new functional details, such as the hood extractor to remove heat from the engine and “Gurney Flap” spoiler to tune rear downforce; world-class materials and craftsmanship create the most unique GT500 interior yet

2010 Shelby GT500 will be in dealer showrooms this spring

The new 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 delivers the most power and refinement ever for a Ford SVT-tuned performance Mustang – and a few surprises, too.

“The new Shelby GT500 demonstrates Ford’s continuing commitment to high-performance vehicles,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “In addition to the numerous performance and refinement improvements inside and out, it’s also two miles per gallon more fuel efficient on the highway.”

“We’re proud of the many enhancements jointly developed by the Ford and Shelby Automobiles team that we’ve incorporated into the new model,” said Carroll Shelby, founder of Shelby Automobiles. “Building on what we learned to create the Shelby GT500KR, this new car offers a great combination of power, handling and braking. It is truly a special car that is a great deal of fun to drive.”

Ford’s Special Vehicle Team used the gains made on the Shelby GT500KR “King of the Road” Mustang as the performance starting point and built from there. The design team, with a nod to the original Shelby Cobra from the 1960s, takes those design cues even further with nuanced improvements in both the coupe and convertible, each of which boasts a more-refined interior.

“Working together on the KR, the Ford and Shelby teams developed new systems to continually improve the iconic Mustang,” stated Amy Boylan, president of Shelby Automobiles. “Those lessons learned are incorporated into the 2010 Shelby GT500. This approach will help maintain Mustang’s leadership position and make the ownership experience even more enjoyable.”

“The muscle car segment is becoming even more competitive,” said Jamal Hameedi, chief nameplate engineer for SVT. “We need to uphold the Mustang badge with honor, the Shelby badge with honor and most importantly the Ford badge with honor. This is the car that will do all of that.”

More horsepower, more refinement, more functionality

The combination of added horsepower, refinement and functionality makes the 2010 Shelby GT500 a unique high-performance car. It delivers more horsepower and more torque than the outgoing model, thanks in part to advancements pioneered on the GT500KR. The 2010 Shelby GT500 is powered by a supercharged and intercooled 5.4-liter dual overhead cam V-8 engine that produces 540 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 510 ft.-lb. of torque at 4,500 rpm. The redline is 6,250 rpm. The car’s aluminum power dome hood not only adds to the Shelby’s appearance, it helps cool the engine through a hood extractor.

The Shelby’s open-element air induction system features a conical air filter instead of a flat-panel closed system to reduce air restriction. This approach allows more air to be pumped through the engine, producing more power and increasing the engine’s efficiency. A cold-air intake feeds the coolest air possi ble directly into the air box, helping further increase horsepower. The intake necessitated moving the Cobra snake badge to the other side of the grille to enable maximum airflow.

The twin-disc clutch on the six-speed manual transmission has been significantly upgraded, improving drivability and NVH. The discs on the 2010 Shelby GT500 are larger – 250 mm in diameter compared with 215 mm in diameter on the outgoing model – and made of copper and fiberglass to make them more robust. A unique component of the twin-disc system is the control of the intermediate disc. Rather than floating, it instead has six straps that control the engagement of the clutch, improving drivability. The 2010 Shelby GT500 offers customers improved straight-line acceleration, plus fuel savings when cruising on the highway in the top gears. Gears 1-4 remain the same, but fifth gear changes from .80 to .74 while sixth gear goes from .63 to .50, meaning that the 2010 Shelby GT500 will turn lower engine RPMs in those gears and deliver improved fuel efficiency. The new final drive ratio, moving from 3.31 to 3.55, enables the improved acceleration in lower gears while complementing the revised fifth and sixth gear ratios. The Shelby’s distinct sounds will be apparent as always, though with new refinements, thanks to the work of the Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) team. A patented resonator placed between the air filter and engine throttle body helps keep unwanted noise in check.

“You still hear the supercharger but not so that it’s intrusive,” said Kerry Baldori, chief functional engineer for SVT. “It’s the same with the exhaust. You want people to know you’re driving something special, but you don’t want an exhaust note that overpowers the whole interior.

“We spent a lot of time getting the right sound quality out of the exhaust so you get that nice, crisp Shelby sound outside and a pleasant sound inside the cabin. It’s a nice balance; one isn’t overpowering the other,” said Baldori.

Driving dynamics also are improved, thanks to SVT’s signature chassis tuning as well as new 19-inch Goodyear F1 Supercar tires and forged aluminum wheels on the 2010 Shelby GT500 coupe and 18s on the convertible. Springs and dampers have been optimized for better roll control, giving customers more confidence when braking, accelerating or turning. The new chassis tuning takes its philosophy from the KR program, with a greater emphasis placed on primary body control. The team also stiffened the steering shaft. “All our changes were about making the car respond as fast and as predictable as possible,” Hameedi said. “The 2010 Shelby GT500 conveys an athletic, confident feel. The shifter, clutch pedal, brake-pedal efforts and overall steering efforts are easier now. We wanted to make sure we had a nice, crisp short-throw shifter that was easy to go from gear to gear.”

The Goodyear F1 Supercar 19-inch tires have been upgraded, too. SVT members developed a “recipe” for the attributes and characteristics they wanted in the tire, which Goodyear’s team of engineers, designers and manufacturers brought to life. The result is better grip, better handling and better NVH properties, leading to a better customer experience. The wheels themselves complement the high-performance nature of the 2010 Shelby GT500. The 19-inch wheels are forged aluminum wheels milled on both sides. The extra machining process creates “blade” spokes with very thin, yet strong, cross-sections. The spokes have a specific curve from the rim to the hub, not only for strength, but also to accentuate the offset and width of the tires. The 2010 Shelby GT500 features AdvanceTrac®, Ford’s stability control system, with several options for performance. The default “on” mode accommodates every-day driving, and a Sport mode delivers for those wanting to put the Shelby GT500 through its paces on the track. The system also can be turned completely off, although the anti-lock brake system and other active safety systems remain in place. Standard safety equipment includes dual stage front air bags, side-impact air bags and Ford’s Personal Safety System®.

Numerous aerodynamic upgrades, including a redesigned splitter, were made to the front end of the 2010 Shelby GT500.

The team worked hard to get as much downforce with as little drag as possible, said Baldori. They worked to seal off the air that comes in the front so it can’t go under the car. A lot of time also was spent sealing components such as the radiator and intercooler to get rid of all leak paths. The result is an increased downforce, reduced drag and improved overall efficiency of the vehicle.

Directing the air so it’s used most efficiently was a painstaking process that ultimately will be rewarding to customers. The design of the front fascia and the car’s “flush” hood helps focus air flow. The top grille focuses air into the radiator, with a rubber flap inside the engine compartment helping to seal the system. The lower grille helps cool the intercooler.

SVT engineers also went as far to block off specific diamonds in the front of the 2010 Shelby GT500’s distinctive grille to help maintain the correct cooling and aerodynamic balance.

A meaner, reskinned snake ready to take to the streets

The 2010 Shelby GT500 is the most-robust design and most-distinctive model of the new Mustang lineup. “The design we chose was a ‘flush’ hood where the fascia defines the entire front of the vehicle,” said Hameedi. “That’s very hard to execute from an engineering standpoint, but it really sets the Shelby off as very different from the base Mustang.”

“This epitomizes the ultimate Mustang,” added George Saridakis, exterior design manager of the Mustang and Shelby GT500. “It’s all about power and expressing power.”

Saridakis said his team took a cue from the Shelby AC Cobra 427 with respect to the front grilles, which are gaping and appear ready to swallow the road.

Another obvious difference for the Shelby is the addition of racing stripes, which also will now be available on the convertible. “Racing stripes made their mark on 1960s-era Ford performance vehicles,” Hameedi noted. “That’s something we feel is a key part of the Shelby performance DNA – maybe more so than some of our competition.” Rounding out the Shelby’s exterior modifications are the unique signature coiled Cobra badges on the front grille and front fenders, a more aggressive front splitter and lower-drag rear spoiler, which added to improved aerodynamic features. The spoiler is raked back aggressively to minimize drag, while an integrated Gurney Flap provides the downforce.

What’s inside counts with the 2010 Shelby GT500

The base 2010 Mustang received a powerful new interior design. For the GT500, the interior design team members challenged themselves to raise the bar even higher to create the ultimate Shelby Mustang interior.

Using genuine materials such as real leather in all seats, real aluminum on the instrument panel and Alcantara® suede inserts on the seats and steering wheel gave the appearance a precisely crafted, jewel-like yet functional feel. Customers can select racing stripes on the seats that match the exterior stripes.

The genuine aluminum finish panels have a unique-to-GT500 three-dimensional dimpled texture pattern inspired by racing clutch plates, braided hoses and cross-drilled racing brake rotors.

The pattern has been painstakingly tuned to compensate for the compound curvature of the instrument panels. In addition, the “GT500” logo has been discretely engraved into the aluminum in front of the passenger as a nod to classic Shelby Mustangs of the 1960s.

This unique aluminum finish panel is fully encapsulated by an exquisite soft seamless TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) instrument panel with a shape that resonates with Mustang’s powerful heritage. The center stack flows into the console and features a sub-flush shifter trim ring, flush cup holder door and lockable console stowage featuring the word “SHELBY” engraved in its Satin Liquid Chrome release button.

All 2010 Mustangs and Shelbys feature bright 360-degree rings surrounding the gauge cluster, uninterrupted by the steering column. These rings will come in chrome for the Mustang and a Satin Liquid Chrome finish for the GT500. This finish is featured throughout the interior. An intricate cobra is etched into the center of the aluminum steering wheel badge. The Shelby Cobra appears at startup on the navigation screen, and the familiar red “SVT” logo utilizes new ambient lighting to illuminate the door scuffplate.

“When customers drive this car, they’re not only going to be impressed by the performance and the Shelby heritage, but they’re going to see all these carefully designed details and know they’ve bought a well-crafted car,” Saridakis said.Even the classic white shift knob – an icon of Shelby Mustang DNA from years past – received special attention. First, it had to be the traditional white. It also had to be specific to the Shelby. The answer was to combine the racing-stripes theme with the traditional “H” pattern found on shifters to create a one-of-a-kind knob. Like the exterior, the racing stripes wrap from end to end, encircling the knob.

Bottom Line: I want one.

Lingenfelter ZR1 Runs 10.03 @ 141.50 MPH

2009-11-09T10:28:00.000-08:00

The team at Lingenfelter headed out to Muncie Dragway and produced a new fast time for their Lingenfelter 2009 ZR1 Corvette. This Lingenfelter ZR1 has the latest version of our second level of supercharger upgrades and produces an impressive 739 RWHP and 720 RWTQ.

The Lingenfelter supercharger upgrades included our pulley upgrade, air intake modifications, intercooler improvements and tuning. This was run with stock exhaust manifolds and factory cat back exhaust with Mild to Wild Switch.

Excuse me, but could I have the keys to that?

IZOD Named title sponsor of IRL

2009-11-08T22:48:00.000-08:00

IZOD Brings IndyCar Series a Strong Brand, Bright Future, And Vision For Growth

Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation announced today a multi-year agreement in principle with the Indy Racing League the sanctioning body for the IndyCar Series, for its IZOD brand to become the title sponsor of the newly renamed IZOD IndyCar Series. The IZOD IndyCar Series, which will mark the League's first title sponsorship since 2001, introduced its new logo and key partnership details today, with additional activation, promotional plans and marketing initiatives to be revealed in the coming months, prior to the start of the 2010 season. Under the new arrangement, IZOD will also retain its designation as the official apparel partner of the Indy Racing League, which began in 2008. Key elements of the agreement are expected to include:

Multi-year, multi-million dollar activation plans and brand-building efforts around the IZOD IndyCar Series intended to broaden the promotion of the sport both off the track and beyond its traditional audience. These include:

Increased and enhanced national media initiatives with IRL's two television partners – ESPN on ABC and VERSUS. Access to drivers and 100 years' worth of motorsports assets and graphics from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum, including current and vintage cars, for both on- and off-track events, both in and out of race markets.

Multi-year, multi-million dollar commitment to participate in the IZOD IndyCar Series Team Enhancement/Allocation Matrix fund. Introduced in 2008, TEAM provides a guaranteed financial foundation for all teams committed to running the entire IZOD IndyCar Series schedule

Shared Web initiatives and online promotions

Rights to use one of the most dynamic marketing events in all of sports – two parade laps in the IZOD IndyCar Series two-seater at the start of the Indianapolis 500 and other selected races –providing a one-of-a-kind experience to an IZOD-selected VIP or fan sweepstakes winner

"The combination of young, dynamic drivers representing over 14 countries, events in key domestic and global markets and its strong American racing heritage make the IndyCar Series a perfect fit for the sport-spirited IZOD brand lifestyle," said Allen Sirkin, President and Chief Operating Officer of Phillips-Van Heusen. "Our involvement with the IRL began shortly after the unification of U.S. open-wheel racing and, despite the recession, we have seen growth and sense the potential for even greater opportunity as the sport is re-energized on the American sports landscape, as well as abroad. We're excited at the opportunity to become the title sponsor f the IZOD IndyCar Series and look forward to taking our partnership with the fastest form of motorsport in the world, along with its 'cars and stars', to a new level of marketing and activation both on and off the track."

"Our relationship with the IZOD brand has been on the fast track since the day we began our partnership in 2008, and we are thrilled they have taken a bigger and more vital role in our sport," said Terry Angstadt, president of the Commercial Division of the Indy Racing League. "Their strong marketing skills, national retail partnerships and ability to bring fresh eyes to the sport have already proven powerful in our short time together. We're confident that we have found a partner with a strong brand, a bright future and a vision for growing the IZOD IndyCar Series that will benefit fans, drivers, teams, owners and tracks."

The move by Phillips-Van Heusen follows a series of recent similar decisions to shift IZOD's marketing mix towards sports and sponsorship activation. In 2008, IZOD was awarded the naming rights for what was then Continental Airlines Arena at the Meadowlands in New Jersey, home of the New Jersey Nets, renaming it the IZOD Center. Phillips-Van Heusen's efforts helped lift the IZOD Center to become the fourth-ranked venue of its kind in North America. Phillips-Van Heusen also recently announced its VAN HEUSEN brand's sponsorship of the Pro Football Hall Of Fame fan vote, a first of its kind for any professional sport.

The 2010 IZOD IndyCar Series, the premier open-wheel racing series in the U.S., showcases some of motorsport's leading personalities, including Danica Patrick, Helio Castroneves, Dario Franchitti, Scott Dixon, Ryan Briscoe and Tony Kanaan, as well as Graham Rahal, Marco Andretti and Tomas Scheckter, heirs to some of auto racing's greatest legends. The 2010 season is scheduled to feature 17 races in the United States, Canada, Japan and Brazil, with the first green flag dropping March 14 in Brazil. The races will be broadcast in high-definition on ABC and VERSUS.

SEMA: On Car Crazy Television

2009-11-07T17:53:00.000-08:00

SEMA: Walking the halls with auto icons

2009-11-07T16:39:00.000-08:00

SEMA 2009 Shell/RCR Event

2009-11-07T16:06:00.000-08:00

School of Hot Rod Launches at SEMA 2009

2009-11-07T15:34:00.000-08:00

To the fans of SRTv

2009-08-31T21:22:00.000-07:00

Doc's Race Images - Willamette Speedway

2009-08-24T11:37:00.000-07:00

As always, Doc has provided some great pictures of the racing action at Willamette Speedway. Make sure and check them out - click on the image.

ASA NW Tour Lewis Keeps the Magic Going

2009-08-23T10:32:00.001-07:00

Gary Lewis of Snohomish, WA kept the magical season going with a win of the time shortened iRacing American Speed Association K-DOCK Radio 125 at Douglas County Speedway in Roseburg, Oregon. Losing only a few points to Lewis Brent Harris of East Wenatchee, WA finished second with Puyallup, WA driver Jay Sauls third.

Time grew short and the race had to be called early due to a curfew at DCS. Lewis passed race leader Harris on lap 27 of the 74-lap feature. Both Harris and Lewis used the many restarts to get to the front. Lewis as he climbed form his winning Chevrolet stated, “I have such a well prepared car by my crew it is easy to drive.

Harris and Sauls are both good drivers and it was fun to race with them. I wish the race had gone the full distance.” Harris a bit frustrated said, “I a guess running second to Lewis is not bad. I am staying close in the points so it comes down to that last race at Wenatchee Valley’s Super Oval on September 12. First we have to go to Yakima and I have done well there. We want the championship. Sauls made it to the podium for the second time this season. Falling back as far as 20th early in the abbreviated feature, “I was able to use the cone restarts to keep working my way to the front. We just keep working and things are getting better for us. I am looking forward to the last two races.”

Busch holds off Martin in bumpercar Bristol race.

2009-08-23T10:26:00.001-07:00

Kyle Busch made a statement Saturday night at Bristol Motor Speedway. So did pole-sitter Mark Martin, who pressured Busch during a four-lap run to the checkered flag of the Sharpie 500 but couldn't make the pass for the win. Instead, Busch won for the fourth time this season and for the second time at Bristol in 2009, despite having a car Saturday night that was no better than second-best.

Busch showed emphatically he is not out of the Chase for the Sprint Cup picture, and Martin strengthened his hold of a spot in NASCAR's postseason. Busch moved up two positions in the standings to 13th, 34 points behind 12th place Matt Kenseth. Martin likewise gained two spots to 10th, 60 points ahead of Busch. The top 12 drivers after the Sept. 12 race at Richmond qualify for the Chase. "Mark Martin -- what a class act," said Busch, who won for the 16th time in the Cup Series. "He deserved to win this race. I'm sorry he came home in second. I know how he feels. I drove as hard as I could. "He had a chance. He could have done it [moved Busch out of the way]. But he didn't. He raced me clean."

Marcos Ambrose ran third, followed by Greg Biffle, Denny Hamlin and Ryan Newman. Kurt Busch came home seventh, followed by Jimmie Johnson, who recovered from trouble on pit road to salvage a top-10 finish. Dale Earnhardt Jr. finished ninth and Kenseth was 10th.

Ragan wins for first time at Bristol

2009-08-23T10:21:00.000-07:00

With a strong restart on a green-white-checkered-flag finish, David Ragan held off Roush Fenway Racing teammate Carl Edwards in Friday night's Food City 250 at Bristol Motor Speedway. Ragan led the final 56 laps of the Nationwide Series event at the .533-mile speedway, but Edwards was the big winner, as he trimmed Kyle Busch's lead in the series standings from 339 to 248 points.

Busch was the victim of an early accident and finished 28th, 59 laps down. "It was a fun night to drive such a fast race car," said Ragan, who chose the outside line for the final restart, as the race went four laps beyond its scheduled distance. "The outside had been great all night. I really struggled passing cars on the bottom. "I raced with Carl it was fun racing with a teammate and I was able to pin him behind a lapped car.

I don't think I would have passed him, because he was running that middle groove, and I just couldn't get around him." The race ended under caution because of a wreck on the final lap that froze the running order with Ragan in the lead. Polesitter Brad Keselowski rallied from an early fender-bender to finish third, followed by Kevin Harvick and Matt Kenseth.

Busch take Bristol Truck Series

2009-08-23T10:10:00.000-07:00

Kyle Busch ended Ron Hornaday's five-race winning streak, capturing Wednesday night's O'Reilly 200 Camping World Truck Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway. Busch took the lead on Lap 124 after a lengthy side-by-side battle with Jason White and was a comfortable 2.721 seconds ahead of runner-up Matt Crafton by the time the checkered flag appeared.

"It's a fun place to race," Busch said after collecting his third truck win of the season. "I knew we would come here with a fast truck; we've been fast every time we've come here. It's good to be back, finally." Hornaday, polesitter Ryan Newman and Brian Scott rounded out the top five.

SRTV Segment - New Coming this Weekend

2009-08-23T10:07:00.000-07:00

Doc's Race Images - Cottage Grove

2009-08-16T22:56:00.001-07:00

ALMS changes class system for 2010

2009-08-16T22:40:00.000-07:00

The American Le Mans Series is to overhaul its class regulations for 2010 in a bid to improve the level of competition and the size of the entry. The current LMP1 and LMP2 classes are to merge into a single LMP class, with performance adjustments made to ensure that the cars can all compete equally.

However for the series' premier Sebring 12 Hours and Petit Le Mans events the championship will revert to the ACO's standard LMP1 and LMP2 rules as the ALMS is keen that both races remain fully compatible with the Le Mans 24 Hours. An additional prototype division will be created in the ALMS for the ORECA-built Formula Le Mans cars used on the Le Mans Series bill in Europe. This one-make class will be known as LMP Challenge.

With the decline of GT1, the GT2 class is to be rebranded as GT but will otherwise remain unchanged. The GT Challenge class for Porsche GT3 Cup cars, introduced this year as a grid-boosting measure, will be retained, with the rules opened slightly to allow other varieties of the Porsche GT3 to compete. "The new format for 2010 will create more opportunities for more teams and manufacturers to participate in the American Le Mans Series, while at the same time providing fans with the chance to see new cars, teams and drivers in both prototype and GT competition," said championship boss Scott Atherton.

"There is no question that developments in the economy - and especially the auto industry - have changed the business environment now and for the foreseeable future. For any organisation to remain 'status quo' is a likely death sentence. "The global economic situation has created a new paradigm that is requiring all businesses to take innovative approaches to how they must operate going forward. We believe we have implemented changes that will enable the series and our participants to thrive."

After a highly successful 2008 season, the ALMS has struggled this year due to the departure of Audi and Porsche from the prototype ranks, and with the decline in GT1 worldwide. The introduction of the Challenge class has kept fields in the 20-30 range for much of the season, but the decision to fall in line with the ACO and introduce greater difference in performance between the LMP1 and LMP2 cars has meant that only the two LMP1 Acuras have been in contention for race victories since Sebring.

Audi 2010 Model Pricing Release

2009-08-16T22:33:00.000-07:00

Audi today announced the U.S. manufacturer's suggested retail prices for the highly anticipated 2010 Audi S4 sedan and A5 and S5 Cabriolet models. The S models arrive at U.S. dealers in late August, while the A5 Cabriolet will be available in the Fall of 2009.

For the complete release please visit: AUDI PRESS INFORMATION

Bentley Mulsanne Makes world debut

2009-08-16T22:27:00.000-07:00

Today, Bentley Motors unveiled the Mulsanne, the company’s all-new flagship grand tourer, at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance in Monterey, California. The Mulsanne is inspired by the company founder W.O. Bentley’s crowning achievement in 1930, the 8-litre. And it was W.O.’s own sensitively conserved company car that shared the podium with the new Mulsanne in Pebble Beach.

This early motoring masterpiece represented the last big Bentley that was designed, engineered and built from the ground up by Bentley engineers - until now. Nearly 80 years later, while paying respect to this illustrious past, the new Mulsanne is a thoroughly modern statement of luxury driving and grand touring. Conceived, styled and engineered entirely at Bentley’s headquarters in Crewe, England, the Mulsanne, with its completely new and unique platform, goes into production next year in a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility within the Crewe factory.

Introducing the Bentley Mulsanne at Pebble Beach, where Bentley was the featured marque, Dr. Franz-Josef Paefgen, Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors, said: “The challenge we set our engineers was to create a new grand Bentley that would stand as the pinnacle of British luxury motoring, offering the world’s most exclusive driving experience. They have responded to this challenge with real passion and the result is a luxury grand tourer that sets new standards in terms of comfort, effortless performance and hand-crafted refinement – the very qualities for which Bentley is renowned.“ The Bentley design team, lead by Dirk van Braeckel, have created a flagship that offers the classic sporting, styling cues long-associated with Bentley - expressed in a thoroughly contemporary way. “From the very first hand sketches in the styling studio, we were inspired by the traditions of the grand touring Bentleys and have sought to evolve this story for a new generation of Bentley enthusiasts.” The return of the Mulsanne name to a car carrying Bentley’s iconic ‘Winged B’ emblem underlines the company’s racing pedigree and nowhere reflects that heritage better than the famed Le Mans circuit, the scene of no fewer than six Bentley triumphs.

Few places offer a stronger or more emotive connection with the Bentley marque than the famed Mulsanne corner. The Bentley 8-litre displayed alongside the Mulsanne in California was first shown at the 1930 London Motor Show. It was the second-built and was W.O. Bentley’s company car for two years. Capable of reaching more than 100 mph, the 8-litre demonstrated W.O. Bentley’s ambition and ability to build a grand luxury car capable of surpassing every other leading manufacturer of the day. A total of 100 cars were built in 1930 and 1931. “The 8-litre’s breathtaking performance and quality was perhaps the finest example of a ‘pure’ grand Bentley.

Every mechanical detail carried W.O. Bentley’s unique stamp and it was the clearest demonstration of a car built without compromise,” commented Dr. Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board Engineering. “The Mulsanne has been designed with exactly the same guiding principles, so it is entirely fitting that these Bentleys from different eras share the same stage.” The Bentley Mulsanne will go on sale from mid 2010.

WARNING: MONDAY MAY BE BAD.

2009-08-16T16:26:00.000-07:00

Considering the weekend that both myself and my boss have had, you may want to be on your best behavior. I've been given the green light to kill everyone impeding forward progress.

ASA NWLMT Gears Up for Final Three Races

2009-08-16T15:45:00.000-07:00

With just a month left in the 2009 iRacing.com American Speed Association Northwest Late Model Tour season the chase for the championship comes down to the final three races. Gary Lewis (Snohomish, WA) has an extremely slim 5-point lead for the first ever championship. Brent Harris (E. Wenatchee, WA) led most of the season, is now looking up at Lewis. Third in the points chase a mere 19-points out of the lead is Kelly Mann (Monroe, WA).

The traveling super late model stock car series heads to Roseburg, Oregon on Saturday August 22. The chase continues on Labor Day weekend with a two day event Saturday and Sunday September 5 & 6 in Yakima, Washington. The season finale will be on Saturday September 12th in E. Wenatchee, Washington. The hottest super late model racer, in the Northwest, Lewis is looking to cap off the season with the ASA NWLMT championship. When added to his NASCAR and ARCA West championships, the ASA championship would give him the Triple Crown. Three seems to be a good number for Lewis. After a three-peat of the Montana 200 Lewis followed that with a three-peat of the Idaho 200 something never done prior. No Northwest racer has ever accomplished winning a Triple Crown. Both Harris and Mann are seeking their first major championship. Harris is a former Late Model champion at Wenatchee Valley’s Super Oval. Mann has won various championships with the latest at South Sound Speedway. Their journey to the championship will be tough with other great northwest super late model racers wanting a piece of the pie. The next stop at Douglas County Speedway in Roseburg, OR has 27 already pre-entered with five more days left to register. 125-laps on the fast 3/8-mile paved oval will be a test for the top three.

The Port City Racecars ‘Rookie Challenge’ has three in contention for that prestigious title. Current leader is Joey Tanner (Portland, OR). Second is Alan Cress (Albany, OR) and third is Amanda MacDonald (Ephrata, WA). The next race at DCS favors Cress. DCS is Cress’ home track where he has won championships. For more information contact iRacing.com ASA NWLMT at 253-312-1080

Rossi grabs victory at Czech GP

2009-08-16T15:43:00.000-07:00

Valentino Rossi was unstoppable in the 11th round of the MotoGP series to score his fifth victory this season. Taking the win by over 11 seconds in the Czech Republic Grand Prix, Rossi's main challenger crashed out, leaving Dani Pedrosa to give chase but it was to know avail. Still the Repsol Honda rider was satisfied today with second. Toni Elias was thrilled with his podium finish, giving the San Carlo Honda Gresini team a third place finish.

Vickers wins fuel-mileage duel at Michigan

2009-08-16T15:38:00.000-07:00

Brian Vickers outlasted Jimmie Johnson in yet another fuel-mileage duel at Michigan International Speedway, taking the lead with two laps to go after Johnson ran out of gas and holding on for his first Sprint Cup victory of the season Sunday. It was the second time in two races at Michigan this season that Johnson's crew gambled on gas and lost. Johnson also was in the lead when he ran out of fuel back in June, handing a win to Mark Martin. Jeff Gordon finished second, followed by Dale Earnhardt Jr., Carl Edwards and Sam Hornish Jr. Series points leader Tony Stewart, who clinched his spot in the chase by starting today's race, finished 17th.

Keselowski wins at Michigan

2009-08-15T20:13:00.002-07:00

Brad Keselowski took advantage of a pitched battle between Kyle Busch and polesitter Brian Vickers one that continued after Saturday's Carfax 250 Nationwide Series race to win for the third time in 2009. With Busch and Vickers battling on the bottom of the track, Keselowski took advantage of the outside line to pass both drivers on the final lap, with Vickers finishing second and Busch third in a race that stretched Busch's lead in the series standings to 339 points on Carl Edwards.

G.A.S.S. Motorsports News

2009-08-09T12:24:00.001-07:00

Driver Seat: '09 Nissan Titan PRO4X

2009-08-09T12:23:00.001-07:00

Driver Seat: '09 Land Rover LR2 HSE

2009-08-09T12:20:00.000-07:00

Driver Seat: '09 Jeep Liberty

2009-08-09T12:19:00.000-07:00

SRTV Industry News August 9th Dodge Ram/Towing

2009-08-09T12:17:00.000-07:00

Willamette Speedway Race Images

2009-08-09T10:37:00.001-07:00

Nationwide Series: Ambrose Win at the Glen

2009-08-09T10:30:00.000-07:00

When Marcos Ambrose and Kyle Busch came to the chicane, or "bus stop," on Lap 64 of Saturday's Zippo 200 at The Glen, Busch stopped out of necessity and Ambrose didn't. Ambrose's bold move into the chicane proved to be the winning pass, as the driver of the No. 47 Toyota held the lead the for the final 19 laps at Watkins Glen International to win the event for the second consecutive year.

Busch wasn't happy with the aggressive pass, which forced him to miss the chicane and stop on the track for a 3-second penalty, but he rallied to finish second, the record 10th consecutive time he has posted a first- or second-place result in a Nationwide race. Carl Edwards ran third, after Busch passed him to the outside through Turn 1 in the closing laps.

Pole-sitter Kevin Harvick came home fourth, followed by road-course specialist Ron Fellows. Jeff Burton, Greg Biffle, David Ragan, Brad Keselowski and Scott Speed completed the top 10, respectively.

Cash for Clunkers lives on...

2009-08-06T21:15:00.000-07:00

Cash for Clunkers lives on. The Senate passed a $2 billion extension with a vote of 60/37, giving customers the opportunity to purchase about 500,000 more vehicles through the program. The Obama administration estimates that most or all of the original $1 billion was spent in a matter of only ten days and it's expected the additional $2 billion will only last through Labor Day.

Before voting on the bill, several amendments to the program were shot down. One amendment, which sought to relegate the program only to lower and middle income families, was denied with a vote of 65/32. Another amendment to make up the $2 billion by cutting from other programs lost by a 51/46 vote.

So far, Detroit automakers have received the majority of C4C deals, with 45.3% of overall sales, followed by Japanese automakers who've amassed 36.5% of the market. General Motors has the highest overall share of C4C transactions, at 18.7%, followed by Toyota at 17.9%. The majority of C4C purchases have received the full $4,500 subsidy, which requires a vehicle to achieve at least ten mpg better fuel economy than the scrapped clunker. The $3,500 subsidy is for vehicles that have a fuel economy improvement of four-to-nine mpg. The Obama administration estimates that the average fuel economy improvement under the C4C program has improved by 61%, saving the average consumer $700 - $1,000 in fuel over the life of the vehicle.

SRTV: NASCAR Dreams and Aspirations 2

2009-08-03T10:48:00.000-07:00

SRTV: NASCAR Dreams and Aspirations 2
I always liked the truck series better anyway.

ASA NWLMT Results Washington 500

2009-08-02T22:58:00.000-07:00

The iRacing.com American Speed Association Northwest Late Model Tour was at Evergreen Speedway in Monroe, Washington on Saturday July 25 for the Washington 500. The scheduled 175-lap distance for the Tour was shortened to 100 due to a surprise thunderstorm that caused over a two hour delay in the proceedings. With the curfew closing in, track officials had no choice but to shorten the race to 100-laps. Pete Harding was declared the winner. Kelly Mann was second followed by Jay Sauls.

A freakish thunderstorm started to head towards the track. The storm came from the east which is abnormal. The normal weather pattern is primarily west to east. When it was determined that the storm was impending, track and series officials moved the ASA NWLMT portion of the program up to run immediately after the presently running figure-eight 100. Just 12-laps into the scheduled 175-lap main for the traveling Super Late Model Series the race was paused to clean up an oil spill. During the clean-up process the rain started and lasted for 45-minutes. The drying process began and the track officials decided they would go with the Street Stock portion of the night’s festivities. The local Street Stocks use a treaded tire and would help get the track to a fully dry state for the remainder of the ASA NWLMT’s 175. A few mishaps and another oil situation during the Street Stock race delayed the ASA NWLMT restart. With time growing short the determination was to shorten the race to 100-laps. The chase for the coveted 2009 championship has tightened. Gary Lewis leads Brent Harris) by five points. Kelly Mann is now third and within striking distance just nineteen back of Lewis. Jason Fraser was the race winner. Failing the post race inspection Fraser was disqualified.

Up next for the iRacing.com ASA Northwest Late Model Tour is the series’ only visit to Oregon during the 2009 season. Race number nine for the northwest’s only traveling premier stock car series is at Douglas County Speedway in Roseburg, OR at the Douglas County Fairgrounds on Saturday August 22. The 125-lap race will feature a race within a race as the local late models will be competing for the win and points for their local track championship. A strong contingent of ASA NWLMT, local late models and Northstate Challenge Late Models are set to make the trip.

SRTV: NASCAR Dreams and Aspirations

2009-08-02T22:20:00.000-07:00

SRTV: NASCAR Dreams and Aspirations

SRTV Modern Classic July 26th

2009-07-28T23:34:00.001-07:00

SRTV MotorSports News July 26th

2009-07-28T23:33:00.001-07:00

SRTV Drivers Seat July 26th

2009-07-28T23:32:00.001-07:00

SRTV Industry News July 26th

2009-07-28T23:31:00.001-07:00

SRTV: Snap Shot July 26th

2009-07-28T23:29:00.000-07:00

WRS at Cottage Grove July 25th

2009-07-27T20:09:00.000-07:00

Western Racing Series Four Cylinder Late Models:

In second night of action the four cylinder late models were in action for the second time of the season. The previous race they were at the Cottage Grove Speedway was on the fifth of July when Brian Johnsen of Medford was able to pick up the victory. In qualifying Bob Westcott of Milwaukie was able to outpace the field with a time of 14.999 seconds.

Westcott was able to keep his winning ways in style by picking up the $100 TPR Industrial Dash for Cash and also winning the first heat race which gave him the pole to the twenty five lap feature. In the second heat race Brian Johnsen was able to pick up the win and that would give him the outside pole.

In the feature Bob Westcott took the early race lead but pulled off early after having some mechanical problems. That gave Brian Johnsen the lead but Renny Marose of Puyallup, Washington was hot on his trail. Eventually Johnsen was able to get some breathing room as he was able to lap all the way up to fourth place. Johnsen would win it followed by Pat Akins of Milwaukie, Rick Rapp of Medford, Jason Wesolowski of Hillsboro, and Portland’s Mike Christoferson rounded up the top five.

Willamette Speedway Race Images

2009-07-26T21:22:00.000-07:00

As always - a big thanks to Doc.
Here are some great action shots from Willamette Speedway.
To see more, please click HERE.

STRV: Ski Boat + Ram 2500 = Tow Segment

2009-07-26T00:05:00.000-07:00

Thanks to SPEEDSPORTS for the use of the Master Craft Ski Boat -could not believe that you can buy a ski boat for so little. Should prove to be an interesting segment about the ins and outs of towing a watercraft.The test vehicle: DODGE RAM 2500 with a Bluetec Cummins surely won't blink an eye at the load, but towing correctly is also about safety and set up.

NWWT: Cottage Grove Images

2009-07-20T23:41:00.001-07:00

Special thanks to Doc And his relentless efforts to share images from around the local race tracks. CHECK THEM ALL OUT HERE

SRTV: NASCAR G.A.S.S NW SPEEDSHOTS

2009-07-20T22:23:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Bob Pengraph and NW SPEEDSHOTS
Great images from the G.A.S.S. race this past weekend.
Proof that I was out there not just filling the field.
Love the shot of me passing the #35 inside of turn 12.
Please check out all the great photos at NW SPEEDSHOTS

SRTV: NASCAR G.A.S.S Weekend 3

2009-07-20T14:19:00.001-07:00

SRTV: NASCAR G.A.S.S Weekend 2

2009-07-20T14:15:00.000-07:00

SRTV: NASCAR G.A.S.S Weekend

2009-07-19T22:36:00.000-07:00

Corvette C6R GT2 entered ALMS race

2009-07-16T22:36:00.000-07:00

Following the 2008 American Le Mans Series, Chevrolet announced that its Corvette Racing team would abandon the largely uncontested ranks of GT1 and take on the challenge of GT2. As General Motors careened toward bankruptcy court this spring, the team competed in its final GT1 races at Sebring, Long Beach and Le Mans – but the big question was whether the GT2 program would be still-born.

Well, Corvette fans can now breath a sigh of relief – the news has just come from the American Le Mans Series that GM has filed official entry forms to compete in the GT2 class at Mid-Ohio in August. The existing driver pairings of Johnny O'Connell/Jan Magnussen and Olivier Beretta/Oliver Gavin will pilot the new Vettes, which will feature bodywork inspired by the ZR1 – including double side vents. We're certainly looking forward to seeing Chevrolets take on Ferrari, Porsche and Aston next month as they take to the roadcourse the weekend of Aug. 6-8.

Toro Rosso reportedly replaces Bourdais

2009-07-16T22:33:00.000-07:00

Those pulling for Sebastien Bourdais will undoubtedly be disappointed by the latest reports emanating from the Formula One paddock. After winning the now-defunct Champ Car title four times in a row, the French driver switched to Formula One with Scuderia Toro Rosso last season, but while his team-mate Sebastian Vettel scored race wins, Bourdais never managed to do better than a couple of seventh-place finishes. Now, after his third early retirement this season at the German Grand Prix this past weekend, reports indicate that he's been given the axe.

Taking Bourdais' seat at STR for the upcoming Hungarian Grand Prix will be Jamie Alguersuari, a Red Bull prodigy, recently promoted reserve/test driver for both Red Bull Racing and reigning champion in the British Formula 3 championship. Reports suggest that Alguersuari's promotion to the race seat serves as preparation for his full-time campaign next season and was fueled, so to speak, by a pending sponsorship deal with Spanish oil company Repsol, which supports Alguersuari's career. If the reports are confirmed and the 19-year-old racer starts the Hugarian GP for STR, he'll be the youngest ever to race in F1.

While the news undoubtedly comes as a disappointment for Bourdais and his fans, it surely disappoints another French multiple-champion as well. As rumors have escalated over the past few days about Bourdais' departure, five-time World Rally Champion Sebastien Loeb publicly threw his hat into the ring to replace his countryman. Loeb previously tested an F1 car for sister team Red Bull Racing, and has long contemplated a switch of disciplines. But while Loeb's declaration infuriated Bourdais, but it looks like his move from WRC to F1 will have to wait a little longer.

1,150-hp Ford RS200 going after Pikes Peak

2009-07-16T22:32:00.001-07:00

It took 13 years for Rod Millen's 1994 Pikes Peak run to be toppled by Nobuhiro Tajima in 2007. And when Tajima set a new record of 10:01.408 in the Suzuki XL7 Hill Climb Special, there were doubts that time could ever be eclipsed.

This weekend, those doubts could be put to rest by Mach 2 Racing and its specially-prepared Ford RS200. Partnering with Avon Tires, the Essex-based motorsports firm has created the ultimate rally-bred Ford, packing a new turbo that boosts output to 950 hp, and then, for good measure, includes a 70-liter nitrous oxide tank to deliver another 200 hp for a total of 1,150 hp.

Discovery Channel's HD bringing WRC

2009-07-16T22:30:00.001-07:00

For World Rally Championship fans living in the U.S., it's been tough to keep up on the action, as domestic television coverage has been virtually nonexistent for some time now. That's about to change, however, as the series has inked a deal with Discovery Communications' HD Theater, a channel with an audience of 633 million. HD Theater has committed to show weekly coverage "from every round of the championship" beginning in October, and it will also air shows featuring related WRC content and news.

The adventure/technology channel already shows other forms of motorsports coverage and car-related programming that we've enjoyed, and we're particularly excited for the return of WRC, as the rallying genre lend itself particularly well to the channel's 1080i, 5.1 digital surround high-def format. After all, the races regularly take place in spectacular settings, and HD broadcasting ought to provide for a heightened level of detail in everything from flying dirt to the look on bystanders' faces as the competitors whip by. Consider us psyched.

Honda CEO reportedly rules out F1

2009-07-16T22:27:00.000-07:00

Things could hardly have played out worse for Honda. It has poured what surely amounted to billions of dollars for years into its Formula One team with little effect. Then it brought in Ross Brawn, only to withdrew its support from the squad, then it sold the entire operation to Brawn while paying out big bucks to avoid an even bigger severance bill. And only then did Brawn turn the F1 team into a winner. That'd be enough to send some automakers scurrying to get back in the game, but not Honda.

The Japanese automaker's new CEO Tokanobu Ito has reportedly completely ruled out the possibility of a return to F1 "even if the economy improves," deriding the series as bereft of relevant development possibilities. Well, there you have it. No word, however, on whether Honda will support the 2010 Japanese Grand Prix at its Suzuka Circuit after Toyota withdrew its Fuji Speedway from the event.

Jean Todt confirms candidacy for FIA president

2009-07-16T22:25:00.001-07:00

The heat is on as former Ferrari chief executive Jean Todt has reportedly confirmed his candidacy for FIA president. The Frenchman has been touted as a potential head of the international motorsport governing body and automobile federation for years, with rumors intensifying following his resignation from the top spot at Ferrari over a year ago. However, reports now indicate that the renowned racing strategist will stand for the office to replace the departing Max Mosley.

TEST DRIVE: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro RS

2009-07-14T22:40:00.000-07:00

SRTv: Speed and Racing Television Test Vehicle.
2010 Chevrolet Camaro RS
More to come.

SRTV Industry News - Intake Systems 7/12

2009-07-12T09:01:00.001-07:00

SRTV Retro Classic 7/12 Rose City Round Up

2009-07-12T08:56:00.000-07:00

SRTV MotorSports News 7/12 TV Segment

2009-07-12T08:50:00.000-07:00

Dodge Viper SRT10 - Thank You Chrysler

2009-07-11T01:44:00.000-07:00

Dodge Viper SRT10 Will Live On

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Jul 10, 2009 - Chrysler Group LLC announced today that production will continue for the legendary Dodge Viper SRT10.

Originally slated to cease production in December 2009, the Chrysler Group Conner Avenue Assembly Plant — the exclusive home of Dodge Viper production since 1995 — will continue to build the V-10 powered sports car. Chrysler Group is no longer pursuing a sale of the Viper business assets.

“The Dodge Viper has successfully captured the hearts and imagination of performance enthusiasts around the globe,” said Mike Accavitti, President and Chief Executive Officer, Dodge Brand. “We’re extremely proud that the ultimate American-built sports car with its world-class performance will live on as the iconic image leader for the Dodge brand."

Introduced as a concept car in 1989 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the Dodge Viper was designed and engineered to test public reaction to the concept of a back-to-basics, high-performance, limited production sports car.

The reaction was so overwhelming that customer orders began to flow in even before the auto show was over. Chrysler Corporation immediately decided to determine the production feasibility on transforming the crowd-pleasing Dodge Viper show car into a limited-production sports car in no more than three years.

In May 1990, after months of intensive study and testing, Chrysler Corporation announced that the Dodge Viper, powered by an aluminum V-10 was a “go."

Dodge Viper production began in May 1992 at the New Mack Assembly Plant and was moved to Conner Avenue in October 1995. Viper V-10 engine production transferred from Mound Road Engine to Conner Avenue Assembly in May 2001. In 2008, Dodge introduced the all-new, fourth generation Dodge Viper SRT10. With more horsepower, more torque and more than 30 exterior and interior color combinations, the latest Viper gives enthusiasts the performance they expect on the track and off, with more factory customization options than before.

For 2009, the Dodge Viper SRT10 offers outrageous power, with an 8.4-liter, 600-horsepower (450 kW) V-10 engine contributing to blistering acceleration (0-60 mph in less than four seconds, 0-100-0 mph in the low 12-second range), setting an American sports car benchmark.

To date, more than 25,000 Dodge Vipers have been built.

MotoGP: Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix PR Release

2009-07-06T22:57:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE:
Dani Pedrosa, who has battled injury and misfortune for the last year, rose back to the top of the MotoGP podium with impressive fashion in capturing the 2009 Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

The Red Bull-sponsored Pedrosa started fourth from the second row, but shot out of the start to take the lead and never give it up for the 32-lap race around the 11-turn, 2.2-mile track. Valentino Rossi, who was expected to defend his title race, moved from third to second and only made a real threat to Pedrosa on the last lap, when he closed the gap to .34 seconds at the checkered flag.

"I took it too slow the last lap," said Pedrosa, whose last win was June 8, 2008 at the Catalunya GP. "When I went into the last corner I saw his [Rossi] bike coming behind and I said maybe I was too slow, but fortunately I won the race."

After the race, Rossi claimed it was too risky for him to chance a last turn pass. "I was not at 100 percent today," said the Italian, who has 100 MotoGP wins in his career. "It was a great race and an important 20 points toward the championship."

Rossi's Fiat Yamaha teammate, Jorge Lorenzo, completed the podium despite racing with shoulder separation and bruised foot injuries sustained from a nasty highside crash during Saturday's qualifying. Lorenzo at times turned the fastest laps and nearly overtook Rossi towards the end of the race in the same turn he crashed the day before, but he overran the turn and had to settle for third at the finish. Casey Stoner, the 2007 race winner, finished fourth after falling back from second position following the holeshot. He too was very sore from a highside crash suffered in qualifying.

American Nicky Hayden recorded best finish of the 2009 campaign with a solid fifth place run, thereby boosting his confidence heading into the second half of the season, his first with manufacturer Ducati.

"All year it has been so hard, and we come home and finally were able to get a good solid result," said Hayden, the 2005 and 2006 Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix winner. "After winning this race twice, it's hard to get excited for fifth, but for what we've been through and how we started this season, I'm really happy. Hopefully, by the time we get to Indy [Red Bull Indianapolis GP] we will be ready for a little more,"

The day's results boosted Rossi's hold on the world championship standings to nine points over teammate Lorenzo and 16 points over Stoner. Pedrosa remains far back in fourth place, 59 points back from Rossi, but his win at Laguna Seca signals to the field that Pedrosa has found his winning ways again.

Hennessey announces 705 hp Z700

2009-07-06T22:45:00.000-07:00

Nurburgring-Tested Track Upgrade for the 2010 Corvette ZR1

The world's fastest and most powerful production Corvette, the 638 bhp ZR1 has become the pinnacle of American sports cars. For most ZR1 owners, having a car capable of Nurburgring times of 7:26 is more than enough to satisfy performance to satisfy their need for speed. However, for the select few who subscribe to the mantra of "Too much horsepower is never enough" Hennessey Performance Engineering (HPE) has something special in store for them in 2010. HPE is happy to introduce the company's 705 bhp Z700 upgrade package for the 2010 ZR1.

Porsche 911 owners wanting the ubber Porsche can order the GT3 RS. Dodge Viper enthusiasts wanting the ultimate road race Viper have the ACR. Now ZR1 owners can opt for the Hennessey Z700 upgrade for their Corvettes.

Hennessey's Z700 performance package starts by upgrading the engine supercharger, exhaust and air induction systems and is dyno tuned to 705 bhp. But this is just the beginning. Additional upgrades include lightweight carbon fiber wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires, which reduce rotating weight by nearly 60 lbs. Hennessey's Z-Aero ™ carbon fiber front splitter, canards and rear spoiler also add over 300 lbs of down force helping to put the added power to the road and track. Rounding out the Z700 upgrade package is a revised interior with lightweight carbon fiber seats, Alcantara steering wheel and shift knob.

HPE will be throwing its hat in the Ring – literally – and plans to begin testing the Z700 at the famed Nurburgring in Germany later in 2009. The company plans to build just 24 copies of this limited edition Corvette ZR1 for the 2010 model year. Each buyer gets 1-day of performance driving instruction in his or her new Z700 at Hennessey's own private test track, Lonestar Motorsports Park. Lonestar, which is located next to the company's facility, is located just west of Houston, Texas and has a full ¼ mile dragstrip as well as a 1.1-mile road course, which will soon be under construction.

SRTV: Modern Classic SRT-4 ACR

2009-07-05T22:32:00.001-07:00

SRTV: Chevrolet Malibu LT film day images

2009-07-05T21:55:00.000-07:00

WRS: RACE ONE IMAGES

2009-06-29T00:08:00.001-07:00

1st WIN CONGRATS!

2009-06-28T22:56:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Robert Summerhalder.
A Main race winner at Sunset Speedway
Pure Stock Division

WRS: RACE ONE WINNER

2009-06-28T22:52:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Bob Westcott.
A Main race winner at Sunset Speedway
WRS Western Racing Series

Franchitti takes Iowa victory

2009-06-21T22:31:00.001-07:00

Iowa captured a lot of the excitement that has been missing from the 2009 IndyCar Series season, as Dario Franchitti took a well-judged second victory of the year by navigating a series of incidents and green-flag pit stops.

It was still a driver from Chip Ganassi Racing or Team Penske that wound up in victory lane for the seventh time in as many races. Franchitti was once again in a special livery - his fifth in seven races - as opposed to the standard Target red and white, the TOM TOM lime green car that he also drove to third place at the Milwaukee Mile.

"I'm completely dizzy right now," Franchitti admitted after a quick second half of the race. "We worked hard on certain parts of the setup, and it changed a lot. We did a couple little tweaks, plus the stops were great for track position."

Franchitti led home Ryan Briscoe, with Hideki Mutoh scoring his best result since finishing runner-up at this race last season in third. Dan Wheldon finished fourth and was the only other driver to finish on the lead lap, while Scott Dixon had a fraught but conservative race finishing fifth.

Vettel wins British GP

2009-06-21T22:28:00.001-07:00

Sebastian Vettel ran away from the field in Sunday's British Grand Prix. Vettel won by 20 seconds ahead of Red Bull teammate Mark Webber and Brawn GP best hope Rubens Barrichello, who matched a third-place finish from last year. Vettel and Webber completed their second Red Bull one-two of 2009. Vettel set fast lap about for a clean sweep: pole, race and fast lap.

Kahne and Petty back in Victory Lane

2009-06-21T22:25:00.001-07:00

The driver of the No. 9 Richard Petty Motorsports Dodge had to ask his crew chief for directions to Victory Lane after taking the checkered flag in a green-white-checkered finish in Sunday's Toyota/SaveMart 350 at Infineon Raceway.

Kahne held off road-course ace Tony Stewart through a succession of four late-race, double-file restarts, the final time after Scott Speed's spin on Lap 108 caused the seventh caution of the day. After starting from the rear because of an engine change, Marcos Ambrose chased the top two finishers to the line to claim third place, matching the best result of his Sprint Cup Series career.

"Awesome - not too bad for a dirt-tracker from Washington!" Kenny Francis, Kahne's crew chief, radioed after his driver crossed the stripe on Lap 113, three laps beyond the scheduled distance at the 1.99-mile road course. "Unreal," replied Kahne, who gave owner Richard Petty his first victory since John Andretti in 1999. "Gosh, we had to hold Stewart off for a while. We won a road-course race! Oh, my God, I can't believe this."

Jimmie Johnson recovered from a pit-road speeding penalty to finish fourth. Denny Hamlin, who led 33 laps - second only to Kahne's 37 - came home fifth. Juan Montoya, A.J. Allmendinger, Clint Bowyer, Jeff Gordon and Elliott Sadler completed the top 10.

Edwards wins at Milwaukee

2009-06-21T22:23:00.001-07:00

Roush Fenway Racing's Carl Edwards made the trip from Infineon Raceway worthwhile on Saturday night, winning the Nationwide Series NorthernTool.com 250 at the Milwaukee Mile.

Edwards left Infineon earlier in the day, where he practiced his Cup Series car, to race at Milwaukee. Having to start at the rear of the field, Edwards tiptoed through the field early in the race.

After his Cup counterpart, Joe Gibbs Racing's Kyle Busch, led for numerous laps, Edwards chased him down and made the pass for the lead on Lap 205. Despite two caution periods in the final 50 laps, Edwards easily pulled away to his first Nationwide victory of the season.

Hornaday dominates at Milwaukee

2009-06-21T22:21:00.000-07:00

Kevin Harvick Inc. driver Ron Hornaday dominated Saturday's rescheduled Copart 200 Camping World Truck Series race, winning on his 51st birthday. "It's a cool day," Hornaday said. "What'd they, 'How old are you?' I don't know. I'm in my 50s, now, I guess."

It was the 41st career Truck victory and second win of the season for Hornaday and his second career victory in a Trucks race at Milwaukee, where he also won in 1997. Hornaday led 180 of the race's 200 laps and easily beat Dennis Setzer. The race was postponed from Friday night after heavy rain struck the Milwaukee area.

SRTV: Speed and Racing Television

2009-06-20T23:12:00.001-07:00

Charger SRT8 and then some....

2009-06-19T22:06:00.000-07:00

...no reason, just love the car.

WRS: Willametee Speedway Test Day

2009-06-18T23:27:00.000-07:00

SRTV: Open Two - V.O.

2009-06-16T20:09:00.000-07:00

SRTV: Show Open Tease

2009-06-15T17:16:00.000-07:00

SRTv: Speed and Racing Television.
Launch: JUNE 21st 9:00AM

Mustang/Challenger in NASCAR in '10?

2009-06-15T11:14:00.000-07:00

In an attempt to boost the series' viewers and souvenir sales, Fox Sports is reporting that Ford and Chrysler plan to introduce Mustang- and Challenger -bodied racers next year. The new designs are due to be submitted for approval on June 26, and the 2010 NASCAR competitors are reportedly going to be visually closer to stock than anything we've seen since the new "aero-matched" cars began rolling out earlier this decade.

Unfortunately, the new Mustang and Challenger cars will still be far removed from their stock siblings, and General Motors has apparently decided not to join its domestic rivals and produce a Camaro shell. Both GM and Toyota will reportedly run their current Impala and Camry bodies, respectively.

Martin wins in last-lap thriller at Michigan

2009-06-14T16:25:00.000-07:00

Johnson, Biffle run out of gas to lose lead in final laps.

Mark Martin saved just enough gas to hang on for victory Sunday in the Sprint Cup race at Michigan International Speedway. Jimmie Johnson dominated most of the LifeLock 400 and took the lead from Greg Biffle six laps from the end as Martin watched the duel from third place. Johnson, the three-time reigning Cup champion, ran out of gas two laps from the finish, giving the lead to Biffle.

But he also ran out of gas as the final trip around the 2-mile oval began, clearing the way for the 50-year-old Martin to drive to the front. His No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet also was left with an empty tank on the last lap, but he was able to coast to the finish line almost three seconds ahead of runner-up Jeff Gordon.

Rossi just edges Lorenzo for Catalunyan win

2009-06-14T16:22:00.001-07:00

It can't get any closer than this. After six races in the MotoGP 2009 season there are three riders tied for the championship. Valentino Rossi won the Catalunyan GP, the series round held this weekend. His Fiat Yamaha teammate, Jorge Lorenzo finished second.

The local hero was shut out from a pole to checker victory by less then a tenth from Rossi. Casey Stoner crossed the line third, enough to give him the 160 points to be part of a three-way tie with Rossi and Lorenzo. Rossi and Lorenzo made the race a two horse show as the Yamahas pulled away from Stoner and the rest of the field. As the Ducati rider watched on the top pair diced back and forth with neither giving an inch to his teammate. Most likely the Fiat Yamaha team were on the edge of their sets, praying the two didn't take each other out as they fought for the lead lap after lap.

On the final go around it looked Lorenzo might claim victory at his home track but Rossi had one move left in the last turn. The Italian's line was perfect and he had just enough to stream to cross the line before Lorenzo. It was truly one of the closest finishes seen in the series for a long time.