Michael Schumacher is reported to make a come back to Formula 1 with the new Mercedes team, according to BBC Sport.

“Mercedes want the seven-time champion as their lead driver after taking over title-winning Brawn,” BBC Sport’s Eddie Jordan says. ”The possibility is being actively pursued and I believe it is going to happen.”

Schumacher’s return to F1 with Mercedes GP will reunite him with Ross Brawn, who assisted him with all his seven title wins at Benetton and Ferrari.

41-year-old Schumacher pulled out of a temporary come back to F1 earlier this year to replace Ferrari driver Felipe Massa.

Schumacher’s spokeswoman Sabine Kehm told BBC Sport that a return was “highly unlikely – but never say never”.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: BBC Sport

M-Sport has finally taken the wraps off of its Ford Fiesta S2000 rally car after nine months of hard work. The Ford Fiesta S2000 rally car will be eligible to compete in national rally championships around the world and the IRC and S200 World Cup in January 2010.

Power comes from a 1998cc 4-cylinder Duratec engine that makes 280-hp and maximum torque of 192 lb-ft. The engine is mated to an all-wheel-drive system and a 6-speed sequential gearbox. The Fiesta S2000 rally car also includes Brembo brakes and an adjustable sports suspension.

So far, the Ford Fiesta S2000 has complete nearly 3000 kms (1,864 miles) of testing in the UK and Europe. The testing program will continue into the early part of next year until the car makes its competitive debut.

Follow the jump for the high-res image gallery and the press release.

Ford Fiesta S2000 Rally Car:

Press Release:

All new Ford Fiesta S2000 rally car unveiled

The highly-anticipated Ford Fiesta S2000 rally car has been unveiled at a launch ceremony at M-Sport’s Cumbrian base in the UK. The new rally car, the culmination of nine months’ hard work by the design and engineering team at M-Sport, was presented by M-Sport managing director Malcolm Wilson. Gerard Quinn, Ford of Europe’s Senior Motorsport Manager was present as a special Ford guest during the S2000 launch.

The Fiesta S2000, M-Sport and Ford’s first global rally car, which will be eligible to compete in national rally championships around the world as well as the IRC and S2000 World Cup, is due for homologation in January 2010. However, it will make its public debut this weekend appearing as course car at the final round of the IRC series, the Rally of Scotland.

Invited guests were given an opportunity to get a close-up look at the exciting new car which has been designed by M-Sport’s award-winning technical director Christian Loriaux and his team led by Chief Designer Anthony Brinkman and Test Engineer Chris Gray.

Continuing their close relationship with Ford, the team at M-Sport has worked in tandem with Ford’s Motorsport Technical Manager Mike Norton and the Ford small car design team that developed the acclaimed kinetic design of the Fiesta road car, to develop a dynamic and aggressive looking rally car.

The experience gained from developing the record-breaking Ford Focus RS WRC has been used by the M-Sport team to develop the Fiesta S2000 rally car while working within the new FIA sporting regulations which mean that this car can be used by customers at both national and international level.

The Fiesta S2000 has already completed nearly 3000kms of testing both in the UK and Europe and that extensive testing programme will continue into the start of the next year in readiness for the car’s competitive debut.

The Fiesta S2000 is the latest in a long line of rally cars produced as a result of the successful partnership between M-Sport and Ford, starting with the Escort Cosworth in the 1990s and moving on to the record breaking Ford Focus RS WRC and Ford Fiesta ST.

It follows hot on the heels of M-Sport’s extremely successful two wheel drive Fiesta R2, which was launched earlier this year and has already taken class victories in rallies across Europe.

The arrival of the Fiesta S2000 means that together Ford and M-Sport offer a complete ladder of opportunity for rally competitors to graduate with Ford from national level right through to the WRC in Ford cars.

M-Sport Managing Director Malcolm Wilson said:
“Today is a very exciting day for us. This is the first global rally car for Ford and M-Sport, I really believe that we have produced a fantastic rally car and this launch is a big step to seeing it out competing in rallies. It’s the first time in five years that we have been able to offer a Ford rally car that can challenge for overall victory in national championships across the world.

“It is also the culmination of a huge amount of hard work not only by Christian Loriaux and his team, but by everyone who works at M-Sport. We have worked closely with Ford on this project, their best-selling road car, the new Ford Fiesta, has been a perfect base car and its award-winning styling and kinematics together with M-Sport’s expertise will surely make the Fiesta S2000 a huge global success.”

M-Sport Technical Director Christian Loriaux said:
“It’s a fantastic feeling today to see the car actually launched to the world after all the hard work and testing behind closed doors. Everyone at M-Sport has had to pull together in order to get the Fiesta S2000 finished in such a short period of time and it has been a great team effort to get to this point so quickly.

“The design team, led by Anthony Brinkman and Chris Gray, has worked incredibly hard and the fact that we have been able to deliver the car to schedule is down in no small part to the commitment of the entire M-Sport team to the success of the project. We have made a very promising start in testing and I am more than pleased with the performance of the car so far; it will be interesting to see how the real pace of the car compares to the competition.”

- By: Kap Shah

Following the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, Porsche today unveiled the 911 GT3 R, a race car based on the international FIA GT3 regulations that succeed the 911 GT3 Cup S. Porsche says that the main focus on creating another GT3 Cup model was to offer better drivability and even easier handling.

Power for the 911 GT3 R comes from a 4.0L 6-cylinder boxer engine turning out 480-hp with power transmitted to the rear-wheels by a sequential 6-speed dog gearbox.

The Porsche 911 GT3 R will make its world debut on Jan. 14, 2010 at the Birmingham Motor Show. Prices for the model start at 279,000 euros plus local sales tax/VAT.

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 R:

Press Release:

New Racing Version for International GT Sport

Stuttgart. Following the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is entering yet another racing car in the 2010 motorsport season: The 911 GT3 R will be raced in series based on the international FIA GT3 regulations, thus succeeding the 911 GT3 Cup S. The main focus in developing this new model was on even better drivability and even easier handling.

The 911 GT3 R is powered by a four-litre six-cylinder boxer engine delivering maximum output of 480 bhp (353 kW) transmitted to the rear axle by a sequential six-speed dog gearbox.

The starting point in developing the 911 GT3 R weighing just 1,200 kg or 2,646 lb was the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup presented in September for one-make cup racing. Thanks to its increase in engine size by 0.2 litres, the GT3 R offers 30 bhp more than the Cup model. Both cars are based on the extra-wide body of the 911 GT3 RS street-legal sports car.

An anti-lock brake system (ABS), traction control and an e-gas with “throttle-blip” function make it much easier to get used to this new GT3 racing car than its predecessor, meaning that the new model is also more appropriate for the ambitious amateur racing driver.

Flared wheel arches added on to the body both front and rear bear clear testimony to the wider track than on the former model. And like all second-generation versions of the 911, the new 911 GT3 R also comes with striking LED rear light clusters.

The Porsche 911 GT3 R is making its world debut on 14 January 2010 at the Birmingham Motor Show. The car is built by Porsche’s Motorsport Department at the Weissach Development Centre and will be delivered to Customer Teams the world over as of spring 2010. The base price of the Porsche 911 GT3 R is 279,000 euros plus local sales tax/VAT.

- By: Kap Shah

Joining Japanese rival Honda, Toyota announced its plans to withdraw from the FIA Formula One World Championship by the end of the 2009 season.

“Toyota has engaged in F1 racing for eight seasons, starting in two thousand two,” Toyota’s President Akio Toyoda said at a press conference “But we will conclude our participation in F1 competition with this season.”

He said that the board of directors reached the decision after debating it thoroughly. TMC leaves F1 having compiled 13 podium and 87 point finishes over eight challenging seasons since 2002 with its partner, Panasonic Toyota Racing.

Honda quit Formula One last December.

Make the jump for the press release.

Press Release:

Toyota to Withdraw from F1

Tokyo – TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announces it plans to withdraw from the FIA Formula One World Championship (F1) at the end of the 2009 season.

TMC, which had viewed its participation in F1 as contributing to the prosperity of automotive culture, remained dedicated to competing at the pinnacle of motor sports, even in the face of the abrupt economic changes that started last year. However, when considering TMC’s motor-sports activities next year and beyond from a comprehensive midterm viewpoint reflecting the current severe economic realities, TMC decided to withdraw from F1.

TMC leaves F1 having compiled 13 podium and 87 point finishes over eight challenging seasons since 2002 with Panasonic Toyota Racing, a full-constructor team. It views its time in F1 – in which teams put forth their best efforts to fiercely compete at racing’s highest level – as an irreplaceable experience that provided an opportunity to develop both human resources and its R&D operations. TMC expresses its deepest appreciation to its F1 fans and others for their warm support.

TMC also wants to express its heartfelt gratitude to all Panasonic Toyota Racing drivers to date and to all Toyota Motorsport GmbH employees who have helped make the team’s achievements possible. TMC intends to do its best to find a solution for those parties who will be affected by any inconvenience this decision may cause.

Drawing on its experience in F1 and other motor sports, TMC intends to move forward in developing exciting production vehicles, such as the Lexus “LFA” supercar and compact rear-wheel-drive sports cars. In motor sports, it will not only race in various categories, but will also actively contribute to further development of motor sports by supporting grassroots races and planning events in which it is easy for people to participate.

- By: Omar Rana

At the 2009 SEMA show today, Kia unveiled its new U.S. motorsports program with the launch of a new Kia Forte Koup race car that will enter the 2010 GRAND-AM KONI Sports Car Challenge Series in the Street Tuner (ST) class.

The GRAND-AM KONI Challenge Street Tuner (ST) class uses production-based race cars with a variety of vehicles from the U.S., Europe and Asia, using weight and intake restrictions to maintain a level playing field for all participants.

Kia has teamed up with the Kinetic Group team to build and campaign race cars for the Korean automaker’s first-ever motorsport efforts in the United States.

Andy Lally and Nic Jönsson will drive the Kia Forte Koup race cars in the GRAND-AM KONI Challenge Series in 2010.

Click through for the press release.

Kia Forte Koup Grand-Am Koni Challenge:

Press Release:

KIA MOTORS AMERICA UNVEILS U.S. MOTORSPORTS PROGRAM

* Forte Koup Will Enter GRAND-AM KONI Sports Car Challenge Series Street Tuner (ST) Class
* Kia Motors and Kinetic Group team up to build and campaign race cars for the automaker’s first-ever auto racing efforts on U.S. soil
* Decorated drivers Andy Lally and Nic Jönsson to pilot Kia Forte Koup race cars

LAS VEGAS, November 3, 2009 – The all-new 2010 Kia Forte Koup’s motto – “One Hot Ride” – took on a new meaning today as Kia Motors America (KMA) unveiled its U.S. motorsports program at the 2009 SEMA Show. KMA has teamed with the Kinetic Group to build and campaign two Forte Koups in the 2010 GRAND-AM KONI Sports Car Challenge Series in the Street Tuner (ST) class.

“The Forte Koup is the latest chapter in the dramatic Kia brand transformation story, and the decision to enter into the motorsports arena was an easy one to make,” said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, KMA. “The Forte Koup’s performance-inspired styling and outstanding driving dynamics make it a natural fit for road racing, and competing in GRAND-AM’s KONI Challenge Series enables us to reach an entirely new and passionate base of automotive enthusiasts.”

The GRAND-AM KONI Challenge Street Tuner (ST) class utilizes production-based race cars and has a wide variety of vehicles from the U.S., Europe and Asia, using weight and intake restrictions to maintain a level playing field for all entrants.

“We researched every form of auto racing in the U.S. to find a fan base that was aligned with our target demographics, and found GRAND-AM to be the perfect fit,” said Sprague. “In addition to working with the Kinetic Group, we are also proud that Infinity Audio, whose high-end audio systems are offered in several Kia vehicles, will join us as the Official Sponsor of the #10 Kia Forte Koup Race Car during our inaugural motorsports season.”

As part of its motorsports team development, KMA identified and partnered with the Kinetic Group to develop, build and campaign the two Forte Koup KONI Challenge spec cars. Based outside of Atlanta, Kinetic provides a comprehensive array of in-house services, including fabrication, composites, paint and body, engine, and electronics departments. Kinetic’s staff of engineers, mechanics and crew have extensive race experience in many series, including NASCAR, Indy Racing League, the American Le Mans Series and the GRAND-AM KONI Challenge Series.

Completing the team, decorated drivers Andy Lally and Nic Jönsson have been secured to drive the two Forte Koup entries in the GRAND-AM KONI Challenge Series in 2010.

“We expect the Forte Koup to be a strong competitor in the GRAND-AM KONI Challenge Series starting with the first race in Daytona, and the fact that drivers of Andy and Nic’s caliber have joined the team reinforces that expectation,” said Sprague. “Building on our involvement in the GRAND-AM KONI Challenge Series and in an effort to introduce the Kia brand to even more racing fans, apparel maker GoGoGear.com has created a highly modified version of the popular Soul urban passenger vehicle which will serve as the official pace car at several races throughout the 2010 US Touring Car Championship (USTCC) season.”

About the Drivers
In the last seven years, driver Andy Lally has three professional championships – 2006, 2004 and 2001 GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series – and recently won the 2009 Rolex 24 At Daytona in the GT class. In addition to three Championships and two Rolex 24 wins, Lally currently holds the record for most top 3 and top 5 finishes in GRAND-AM Rolex Series history as well as the record for most podium finishes in a single season. He is third on the all time win list and the only three-time Rolex Series Champion. Lally also has stock car racing experience, including the NASCAR Nationwide Series, Craftsman Trucks, ARCA and Goodies Dash.

Nic Jönsson made his first professional start in 1989 and was the Scandinavian Formula 3 champion in 1990 and 1991. In 1992 he won the Scandinavian Touring Car title and finished second in the European Formula 3 cup. Jönsson has raced touring cars, sports cars and Indy cars all over the world and has competed in the American Le Mans series as well as the SPEED World Challenge Touring car series. Jönsson, who is a highly sought-after test and development driver, scored his first GRAND-AM victory in 2005 at the Six Hours at The Glen. Outside of sports car racing, Jönsson has trained the Swedish royal family and secret-service agents in high-performance and self-defense driving. A native of Sweden, Jönsson is the co-founder and owner of Kinetic Speed Shop.

About Kinetic Group

Kinetic is an automotive group that includes Kinetic Motorsports, Kinetic-Sunbelt Engines, and Kinetic Speed Shop. Kinetic Motorsports taps into every aspect of professional and amateur racing, from car builds to prep and trackside support. Every resource needed to develop, manage and run a professional race team in any series is located on-site. Kinetic-Sunbelt Engines have powered amateur and professional racers to numerous championships in North America. Kinetic Speed Shop caters to aftermarket street performance. Kinetic’s 42,000 square foot, state-of-the-art showroom and race complex is located in Buford, Georgia, just 15 minutes from Road Atlanta. More information can be found online at www.kssmotorsports.com.
About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 650 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline “The Power to Surprise.”

- By: Kap Shah

Dodge Motorsports today took the covers off of its new Dodge Challenger NASCAR Nationwide Series race-car and said that it will provide support for Penske Racing’s two-car operation in the NASCAR Nationwide Series in addition to three teams in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.

The Dodge Challenger race-car will be used at the four “New Car” races NASCAR has designated starting at Daytona in July. The No. 12 Dodge Challenger will also take part in Monday’s NASCAR Nationwide test session at Talladega Superspeedway for the “new cars” with Justin Allgaier behind the steering.

Dodge will continue its support of Penske Racing’s three-car operation in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series in 2010 with drivers Kurt Busch, Sam Hornish Jr. and Keselowski.

Click through for the press release.

2010 Dodge Challenger NASCAR Nationwide Series Race-Car:

Press Release:

Dodge Motorsports Notes & Quotes – Dodge Introduces Challenger For NASCAR Nationwide Series

TALLADEGA, Ala. (Friday, Oct. 30, 2009) – Dodge Motorsports today revealed the Dodge Challenger as the “New Car” for the NASCAR Nationwide Series and announced an expansion of its partnership with Penske Racing beginning in 2010. Dodge will provide support for Penske Racing’s two-car operation in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, in addition to Penske’s three teams in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.

“As the performance brand of our new company, we are excited to expand our relationship with Penske Racing and introduce the iconic Dodge Challenger as our entry into the NASCAR Nationwide Series,” said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO, Dodge Car Brand. “Motorsports are a significant part of the Dodge brand’s legacy. Penske Racing has such a rich tradition in motorsports, and our partnership in the Nationwide Series will provide an excellent opportunity to showcase the Challenger and offer our loyal Dodge enthusiasts plenty of excitement in this very competitive series next year.”

Penske Racing will field two teams, both running the full-season schedule. The Dodge Challenger will be used at the four “New Car” races NASCAR has designated, starting at Daytona in July. At the other 31 events that complete the 35-race season, Penske Racing will field Dodge Chargers as it did this season with the No. 12 Verizon Wireless Dodge Charger driven by Justin Allgaier. NASCAR is expecting full integration of the “New Car” in 2011.

Joining Allgaier will be Brad Keselowski in the No. 22 Discount Tire Dodge. He also will compete in the Dodge Challenger for the four designated races and in a Charger for the remainder of the schedule.

“Today’s announcement further reinforces our relationship and commitment to Dodge Motorsports, and we are excited about our future with this great brand,” said Tim Cindric, President of Penske Racing. “We believe Dodge’s relationship with Penske Racing will continue to elevate and highlight both our brands and deliver value to Dodge enthusiasts.”

Allgaier, in his rookie season in the Nationwide Series, is currently fifth in the season point standings and the leader among Rookie of the Year candidates.

“Penske Racing has a very successful relationship with the Dodge brand,” commented Allgaier. “I am honored to be one of Dodge Motorsport’s drivers and to be able to drive the new Challenger in the NASCAR Nationwide Series is going to be awesome. The car looks great and will give the Nationwide Series its own identity.”

2010 Dodge Challenger
The Dodge Challenger merges the best American muscle-car characteristics—unmistakable design, world-class handling, powerful engines and technology—to delight driving enthusiasts across several generations. The two-door coupe accommodates up to five passengers and is produced from the company’s proven rear-wheel-drive platform. With three models of head-turning styling, two legendary HEMI® V-8 engine choices, up to 25 highway miles per gallon, more than 25 safety and security features and modern amenities, it’s no surprise Dodge Challenger was awarded J.D. Power and Associates “Most Appealing Midsize Sporty Car” in its 2009 APEAL Study.

“The Dodge Challenger has proven to be one of the most sought after high-performance vehicles on the street today,” said Dave Bailey, Senior Manager of Motorsports Engineering and SRT Body, Interior and Electrical. “Sharing our consumer’s passion for performance through the race version of our Dodge Challenger will continue to showcase the unique engineering brought to our race and production vehicles.”

Dodge will continue its support of Penske Racing’s three-car operation in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series in 2010 with drivers Kurt Busch, Sam Hornish Jr. and Keselowski.

The No. 12 Dodge Challenger will take part in Monday’s NASCAR Nationwide test session at Talladega Superspeedway for the “new cars” with Allgaier driving.

About Dodge
Dodge is a full line of cars, SUVs and MPVs that are agile, daring, sensible and inventive. The product line includes the Dodge Caliber, Dodge Avenger, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, Dodge Grand Caravan, Dodge Journey, Dodge Nitro and Dodge Viper SRT10.

Dodge introduced two new vehicles last year: the all-new 2009 Dodge Journey, the brand’s first crossover vehicle and the 2009 Dodge Challenger, a modern-day American muscle car. Dodge also celebrated the 25th anniversary of the minivan during the 2009 model year. With more than 65 minivan-firsts introduced since 1983 and more than 12 million Dodge and Chrysler minivans sold, Chrysler Group LLC has solidified its leadership in the segment. J.D. Power and Associates further acknowledged this leadership by naming the Dodge Grand Caravan the Most Dependable Van for 2009. The 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan continues to set the mark in the minivan segment with unsurpassed fuel economy of 17 city / 25 highway mpg and minivan-first innovations including the segment’s only Stow ‘n Go® and Swivel ‘n Go™ seating and storage systems. The 2010 Dodge Avenger, with ESC, also earned the 2009 Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

- By: Kap Shah

Gymkhana phenomenon Ken Block, is reportedly lining up a World Rally Championship drive for next season. Block, who currently drives for Subaru USA in Rally America, is reportedly going to race a 2009-spec Ford Focus WRC.

According to Autosport, Block’s managers have brokered a deal for him and former Subaru WRC driver Chris Atkinson (as Block’s team-mate), in a Monster Energy Drink-sponsored Ford Focus WRCs for half of the events in 2010, followed by a full season in 2011.

“Ken Block is an iconic figure in US motorsport and a major box office personality,” said WRC promoter Simon Long. “It wouldn’t get much better than this for the WRC going into North America.”

The three-year deal is likely to be agreed on within the next month.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: Autosport (via TopGear)

In July, Ford Racing announced that the Mustang will race in the Nationwide series when Ford begins a limited rollout of its new car in 2010. The Ford Mustang NASCAR Nationwide Car was revealed today and in collaboration with Roush Fenway Racing and Con-way Freight.

The No.16 Con-way Freight Mustang will be driven by 21-year old Colin Braun, who was the 2008 Raybestos Rookie of the Year. He will move to a full-time Nationwide program next season.

Check out the press release below for more details.

2010 Ford Mustang NASCAR Nationwide Car:

Press Release:

FORD, ROUSH FENWAY RACING, AND CON-WAY FREIGHT UNVEIL NEW 2010 NATIONWIDE MUSTANG

Truck Series 2008 Rookie of the Year Colin Braun Will Drive the No. 16 Con-way Freight Mustang

CONCORD, N.C., October 13, 2009 – A new era of Mustang racing rolled out here today, piloted by an All-American driver and with a returning sponsor familiar to loyal NASCAR fans.

Three major events were rolled into one today as Ford teamed up with Roush Fenway Racing and Con-way Freight to unveil the No. 16 Con-way Freight Mustang with driver Colin Braun at Roush Fenway Racing headquarters in Concord, N.C.

Ford announced in July that Mustang, the iconic pony car that has raced for all 45 years of its existence, would compete in the NASCAR Nationwide Series beginning in July 2010 when a limited rollout of NASCAR’s new car begins at Daytona International Speedway. Today marked the first time the NASCAR Mustang was seen in public.

Braun, 21, a native of Ovalo, Texas, will make the move from the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, where he was the 2008 Raybestos Rookie of the Year, to a full-time Nationwide program next season, along with Con-way Freight, which has been his sponsor for the last two years. Roush Fenway and Con-way Freight recently agreed on a contract extension to remain as a primary sponsor for 18 Nationwide races within the organization.

“I’m so happy that Con-way Freight decided to move up with me to the Nationwide Series for 2010,” Braun said. “They have been a great sponsor for the past two years in the truck series so it means a lot to me that they will continue to support me in the future. I’m also looking forward to driving a Mustang next year. I’ve always thought they are such incredible cars, but have never owned one. Maybe when I win my first race the guys at Ford will want to give me one of my own.”

Mustang has a storied history in motorsports and can claim more than 2,000 professional race wins worldwide. Its iconic standing in the auto industry aside, Mustang brings a breath of fresh air and new sense of excitement to the NASCAR Nationwide Series.

“This truly marks the start of the next era of Mustang racing,” said Brian Wolfe, director, Ford North America Motorsports. “We fully expect this Mustang, with drivers like Colin behind the wheel, to start to enjoy the kind of success so many other Mustang racing programs have enjoyed throughout the last four decades.

“Mustang is a proud and historic brand for Ford. This is a car born to race, and NASCAR is the next logical step for its racing pedigree.”

Braun and Con-way Freight have had good success together and are experiencing a breakout season in 2009. Braun started the season by capturing his first of his three poles to date in the season-opening race at Daytona, and followed that up with his first NASCAR win, which came at Michigan International Speedway in June. He finished 13th in the point standings last year and currently sits seventh with five races remaining this season.

“We’re excited to help unveil the 2010 NASCAR Nationwide Mustang, and to announce Con-way Freight’s first-ever sponsorship in the Nationwide Series,” said John G. Labrie, president, Con-way Freight. “The opportunity to continue working with Ford, Roush Fenway Racing and Colin Braun is a great one for us. Colin’s talent on the track and competitive spirit remind us of our more than 20,000 employees and the commitment they bring to their jobs every day. All of us at Con-way Freight look forward to supporting Colin all the way to another Rookie of the Year win in 2010.”

Con-way Freight’s first venture into racing took place in 2005. In 2006, the company rebranded and changed its name, and a racing sponsorship provided an ideal opportunity to build awareness of the Con-way Freight brand in an entertaining and exciting way for both customers and employees.

“Through the first five years of Con-way Racing, we saw that the program was a huge win for Con-way Freight and our customers, so we made the decision to move forward with a new affiliation with Ford, Roush Fenway Racing and Colin Braun,” said Bill Wynne, vice president of marketing, Con-way Freight. “We’ve seen tremendous rewards from those relationships, and that’s why we’re here today to announce a new era of Con-way Racing action in the NASCAR Nationwide Series.”

Mustang currently competes professionally in the NHRA Funny Car and Pro Stock divisions and places like the Grand-Am KONI Challenge, SCCA World Challenge, and the Mustang Challenge Series. In addition, thousands of Mustangs see action by grassroots racers at road courses and drag strips all across America.

“I have been a Mustang owner and enthusiast for many years myself so this is an exciting day to see this car racing in NASCAR,” said car owner Jack Roush. “My teams have won several road racing championships over the years in Mustangs, and I look forward to winning more with Colin, Carl (Edwards) and Ricky (Stenhouse, Jr.). With the continued support of Ford and Con-way Freight we plan to give Colin the opportunity for his second Rookie of the Year title in NASCAR, and ultimately a Nationwide Series championship.”

Overall, Roush Fenway Racing has the most all-time victories in the NASCAR Nationwide Series with 107 and two driver championships, courtesy of Greg Biffle (2002) and Carl Edwards (2007).

- By: Kap Shah

The Nissan Project Zed dragster will race for the first time ever in Europe at the FIA European Finals at Santa Pod held next month.

Power for the Project Zed comes from Nissan 350Z’s 3.5L V6 engine tuned to produce nearly 1,900-hp. Not only does the Project Zed go from 0-60 mph in only 1.2 seconds, but 0-168 mph takes just 4.1 seconds.

Owner and driver John Bradshaw will race the car at the famous Santa Pod Raceway. The hand-built dragster will be the only Japanese engined car to compete against American V8 machinery in the Mainstream drag racing category this year. To show support, Nissan will be on hand displaying the Nissan GT-R and 370Z alongside the Project Zed.

Click through for the press release.

Nissan Project Zed:

Press Release:

0-60MPH IN 1.2 SECONDS – ‘NOUGH ZED

- Nissan 350Z’s straight line speed stretched to the limit in stunning drag-strip monster, Project Zed
- Created by owner and driver John Bradshaw, Project Zed is a full Pro Class drag car packing almost 1,900bhp
- Amazing dragster will perform at the FIA European Finals at Santa Pod, September 10th to 13th 2009
- In support of the track star, Nissan will have a stand at the show displaying its latest road-going sports cars, the GT-R and 370Z

A very special Nissan Z-Car is ready to rumble at Santa Pod! Built to break multiple European records, the hand built dragster will be the only Japanese engined car competing against more traditional American V8 machinery in Mainstream drag racing this year.

The lovingly prepared Project Zed is powered by a Nissan 350Z 3.5-litre V6 engine producing nearly 1,900bhp. Owner and driver John Bradshaw is thrilled to be taking his mighty machine to the famous Santa Pod Raceway, Northants. John comments: “It’s incredible to finally have the car ready to test now and we are all very excited by its potential. It really is a car that is capable of setting records around the world and just shows what a Nissan engine is capable of producing.”

Project Zed is the first ever Pro Class 350Z to be seen in Europe and has been eagerly awaited by drag fans all over Europe. It’s no surprise to find that predicted acceleration times are breathtaking. Not only is 0-60mph expected to take only 1.2 seconds, but 0-168mph will arrive in just 4.1 seconds.

The team are no strangers to success having set the fastest quarter mile time in the world for a Nissan Skyline (7.68 seconds @ 177mph) with their other car, Project GTST, which is a 1997 Nissan Skyline RWD GTST. Producing over 1,150bhp at the wheels, the car holds the record for the fastest Japanese car in Europe for 2008 and retains that title to date in 2009.

Throughout the rest of the year Project Zed will run in various classes including Super Pro ET, Competitor Eliminator and HKS Series – Pro Class.

Performance figures for Project Zed are expected as follows:

* 0-60 mph – 1.2 second
* 0-168 mph – 4.1 seconds
* 0-215+ mph – 6.6 seconds

- By: Omar Rana

The Porsche 911 GT3 Cup is the world’s best-selling and most successful production-based race car, selling more than 1,400 units. Porsche has just unveiled a new model for 2010, and says it is stronger, wider and faster than its predecessors.

Based on the street-legal 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS, the 911 GT3 Cup is powered by a flat-six 3.8L unit that delivers 450-hp at 8,500 rpm. The engine is mated to a sequential 6-speed manual gear box.

Also like the 911 GT3 RS, the 2010 GT3 Cup features a 1.73-inch wider body, wider front wheel arches, three-piece light-alloy wheels and front body panels from its street-legal sibling.

The 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup is on sale in Europe with prices starting at 149,850 euros. It will be available later this year. U.S. pricing has not been announced.

Click through for the press release and high-res image gallery.

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup:

Press Release:

World’s Most Successful Race Car adds Power, Proficiency

ATLANTA – August 26, 2009 – Stronger, wider, faster – Porsche’s new 911 GT3 Cup car is the latest-edition of the world’s best-selling and most successful production-based race car of more than 1,400 units. It will be introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show September 17-27, 2009, along side the previously-announced 2010 911 Turbo and 911 GT3 RS.

For the first time, the race car is based on the street-legal 2010 GT3 RS version. However, in keeping with tradition, it continues to be assembled on the same production line as all road-going Porsche 911 vehicles in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen.

Like the flat-six “Boxer” engine in the new GT3 RS, displacement is increased by 0.2 liters over the former model to 3.8 liters and produces 30 more horsepower – 450 hp with a maximum RPM of 8,500. Additionally, it comes with a standard, sequential six-speed manual gearbox and weighs 2,646 lbs (1,200 kg).

Also like the 911 GT3 RS, the GT3 Cup car features the 1.73-inch wider body of the current 911 Carrera 4S, providing sufficient space for larger wheels. Wider front wheel arches allow for three-piece light-alloy rims measuring 9.5 J x 18 (previously 9 J x 18) utilizing 24/64-18 Michelin racing tires. The three-piece light-alloy wheels on the rear axle are up by one inch in width, now measuring 12 J x 18 with 27/68-18 tires.

The new 911 GT3 Cup is clearly recognizable at first sight through the special design of the front end. The striking daytime driving lights come straight from the current generation 911. Another carryover from the road-going 911 GT3 RS are the front body panels – as they prove aerodynamically-efficient for racing duty. The front spoiler lip is more than 0.5-inches lower to provide significantly more downforce on the front axle.

Downforce on the rear axle is also increased by the by virtue of a rear wing that is over 9-inches wider than the street version, 66.9 inches vs. 57.5 inches respectively. The rear air dam, with its air vent openings as well as the rear LED lights, also come straight from the road model.

Additional Unibal joints are featured on the track control arms and the front and rear anti-roll bars are now adjustable to seven different positions, allowing for an even more precise set-up of the car to best match each prospective race track.

The cockpit of the new 911 GT3 Cup caters even more to the specific needs of the driver. An additional vent in the upper part of the front lid, for example, provides the driver with a better supply of fresh air. The controls for the Info Display are now positioned directly on the steering wheel housing. And in addition to fore-and-aft adjustment, the steering wheel may now also be adjusted for height as on the regular production car.

Since the current era of sports car racing in the U.S started in 1999, Porsche 911 race cars have over 130 class victories, more than any other manufacturer. In addition, Porsche has won seven of ten GT2 manufacturers’ championships and eight of ten drivers’ championships in the American Le Mans Series. In addition, 911 race cars have won seven of nine GT championships in the Grand-Am Road Racing series, including an overall victory at the Rolex 24 at Daytona.

The new Porsche 911 GT3 Cup will be available later this year. U.S. pricing has not been announced.

Porsche Motorsport, located in Weissach, Germany, is the Porsche factory division that is responsible for all worldwide Porsche motorsports activities. This includes not only the development, building, and servicing of race car models, plus all customer racing programs, but also the engineering development of Porsche street models like the 911 GT3, 911 GT3 RS, the 911 GT2 and, previously, the Carrera GT.

Porsche Motorsport North America, located in Santa Ana, CA, provides a support system of race shop and at-the-track service for its U.S. professional and customer auto racing activities, a unique system unavailable from any other auto manufacturer – http://www.porschemotorsport.com

- By: Stephen Calogera

After make its presence known in the GT1 American Le Mans Series, Corvette Racing is now entering the GT2 Class territory with the new Corvette C6.R. The new model will make its competition debut at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course this weekend.

This will put Corvette Racing and their Corvette C6.R race car head to head with Ferrari, Porsche, BMW, Aston Martin, Jaguar, Viper, Panoz, and Ford.

“We’re not running for a championship this year, so we’re looking at the upcoming races as preparation for 2010,” said team manager Gary Pratt. “Certainly we hope to achieve the same level of success that we did in GT1, but the caliber of the competition we will face in GT2 is very high. When we started in GT1 in 1999, it took a while to win; now we have 10 years of experience that should help us to become competitive in a new category. Everyone at Corvette Racing is looking forward to the challenge.”

In the remaining races in 2009, the Corvette C6.R will be powered by a 6.0L GM small-block V8. A 5.5L production-based GM small-block V8 is currently under development. It will be introduced at the start of the 2010 season.

Click through for the press release and the high-res image gallery.

2010 Chevrolet Corvette C6.R GT2:

Press Release:

Corvette Racing to Introduce Corvette C6.R in GT2 Class at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course

Next-Generation Race Cars Strengthen Links Between Competition and Production Corvettes

DETROIT – Corvette Racing will open a new chapter with the competition debut of the next-generation Corvette C6.R at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course on August 6-8. In anticipation of a single GT class in 2010, Corvette Racing will test and develop the latest Corvette C6.R in the GT2 category in the final five rounds of the 2009 American Le Mans Series. With the upcoming move to a unified GT category, the twin Compuware Corvette C6.R race cars will compete against rivals representing Ferrari, Porsche, BMW, Aston Martin, Jaguar, Viper, Panoz, and Ford.

Based on the Corvette ZR1 supercar, the next-generation Corvette C6.R has even stronger links to the production version of America’s performance icon than its predecessors. The GT2 rules require the use of many production-based components, expanding the opportunities for the two-way transfer of technology between the race track and the showroom. The updated Corvette C6.R utilizes the ZR1’s body design, aerodynamic package, aluminum frame and chassis structure, steering system, windshield, and other components. The race team has prepared the cars for the rigors of endurance racing with safety and performance modifications as permitted by the GT2 rules.

“One of the many benefits of the Corvette Racing program has been the opportunity to demonstrate the technology transfer between the race car and the production car,” said Mark Kent, GM Racing manager. “The global movement toward a single GT class will allow us to compete head-to-head with more marketplace competitors while increasing both the production content of the Corvette C6.R race cars and the relevance of racing to our customers. This is a step that positions Corvette for the future of production-based sports car racing worldwide, and a move that is perfectly aligned with GM’s marketing and business objectives in racing.”

Previous versions of the Corvette C5-R and C6.R race cars have dominated the GTS and GT1 categories in the last decade, winning 77 races and eight consecutive ALMS championships. The GT1 Corvettes were retired following Corvette Racing’s sixth victory in the 24 Hours of Le Mans on June 14, 2009.

“In our decade in GT1, our primary focus has been on racing victories and the validation of the Corvette as a world-class sports car,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. “As an authentic way to communicate to knowledgeable customers, nothing beats racing. As a cost-effective means to improve vehicle performance, nothing beats racing. These are the reasons racing is in Corvette’s DNA.

“Behind the scenes, the race team and the production car team have grown closer together, finding numerous ways to support each other and to make both cars better,” Juechter said. “Most automotive companies give lip service to claims like ‘racing improves the breed’ or ‘race on Sunday, sell on Monday’. For team Corvette, it is a daily reality. It is now impossible to imagine one team without the other.”

The upcoming GT regulations required a comprehensive redesign of the Corvette C6.R package. In place of the GT1 Corvette’s steel frame, the GT2 version utilizes the production ZR1’s hydroformed aluminum frame as the foundation for a fully integrated tubular steel safety cage. The GT1 version’s wide, louvered fenders are replaced by production-based ZR1 fenders with wheel flares. In accordance with the aerodynamic regulations, the rear wing is reduced 25 percent in width, the diffuser is a flat panel without fences or strakes, and the splitter extends only as far as its production ZR1 counterpart. Steel brake rotors have replaced the carbon discs used previously, and the wheels are aluminum instead of magnesium. The adjustable steering column and steering rack are sourced from the street Corvette.

“Integrating a steel safety cage that meets GM Racing’s stringent standards as well as the strength and durability targets required in racing is a challenge with an aluminum frame,” explained Corvette Racing engineering director Doug Louth. “Working in conjunction with the structure and chassis engineers in the Corvette production group, we designed, built and tested numerous examples before we finalized the configuration. We went through a similar process with the production Corvette group on the body design and aero components. It was truly a collaborative effort between the production engineers and the race team.”

In the remaining races in 2009, the Corvette race cars will be powered by 6.0-liter GM small-block V8s that are based on the 7.0-liter LS7.R that powered the GT1 version. This reduction in displacement was achieved by shortening the crankshaft stroke from 3.875-inch to 3.32-inch. The diameter of the series-mandated intake air restrictors was decreased from 30.6 mm to 28.6 mm, with a corresponding reduction in engine output from 590 to 470 horsepower. A 5.5-liter production-based GM small-block V8 is currently under development and will be introduced at the start of the 2010 season. The Corvette Racing team is continuing its commitment to green racing with the use of E85R ethanol racing fuel.

While much of the hardware has changed, Corvette Racing’s roster of championship-winning drivers remains the same. Johnny O’Connell and Jan Magnussen will share the No. 3 Compuware Corvette C6.R, and Oliver Gavin and Olivier Beretta will drive the No. 4 Compuware Corvette C6. R. They will be joined by Antonio Garcia and Marcel Fassler at Petit Le Mans.

Corvette Racing also has the continued support of its long-time sponsors and technical partners. Compuware is the team’s primary sponsor, with Mobil 1 supplying low-friction lubricants and Michelin providing its world-class racing tires. Corvette Racing’s sponsors also include XM Satellite Radio, UAW-GM, Genuine Corvette Accessories, Bose, Motorola, PRS Guitars, and BBS.

“Compuware leads the world in application performance solutions, and partnering with Corvette Racing gives us another high-tech, high-performance and high-impact platform for communicating to our customers and prospects,” said Compuware Chairman and CEO Peter Karmanos, Jr. “The launch of the Corvette C6.R in GT2 is a great extension to our relationship with General Motors, Chevy and Corvette. We look forward to even more victories in the months ahead.”

The GT2-spec Corvettes were designed, built and tested on a compressed schedule. The program was approved and announced in September 2008, and construction of the first chassis began in early December. The first track test was conducted at Road Atlanta on April 8-9, followed by single-car tests in Elkhart Lake, Wis., and Sebring, Fla.

“The Corvette Racing team had to take on several challenges simultaneously to execute this program,” said Doug Fehan, Corvette Racing program manager. “We were preparing for our regular race season with the GT1 cars while designing the GT2 version. The cars were being built and tested in the midst of our preparations for Le Mans. The team was multi-tasking to the extreme, operating on a leaner budget and a faster timeline. It was a monumental effort to have these cars ready for the Mid-Ohio race.”

Advanced technology tools enabled Corvette Racing to meet the challenge. “With the short development schedule, we relied on ‘virtual’ design and computer simulation more than ever before,” said team manager Gary Pratt. “We made design, engineering and manufacturing simultaneous processes as much as possible. For example, while the first chassis was being built, we continued to run computer simulations on suspension geometry and refined the aerodynamics using CFD (computational fluid dynamics) because these areas didn’t have to be finalized until later in the production timeline. We have developed the capabilities to do finite element analysis and composite fabrication in-house, which has accelerated our design and production cycle.

“We’re not running for a championship this year, so we’re looking at the upcoming races as preparation for 2010,” Pratt said. “Our only testing from this point on will be at the races, and we’ll be doing it in the public eye. Certainly we hope to achieve the same level of success that we did in GT1, but the caliber of the competition we will face in GT2 is very high. When we started in GT1 in 1999, it took a while to win; now we have 10 years of experience that should help us to become competitive in a new category. Everyone at Corvette Racing is looking forward to the challenge.”

Fehan is confident but cautious about Corvette Racing’s prospects in the GT2 category: “In the limited testing we’ve done so far, we’ve been very impressed with the car’s durability, reliability and performance,” he said. “We’ll continue to focus on those three factors in the upcoming races. We view the rest of this year as a development cycle, and we believe that our experience as a team in preparation, race strategy, and pit stop execution should allow us to be competitive even if there is a slight performance disparity.”

The GT2 version of the Corvette C6.R will make its debut in the Acura Sports Car Challenge at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio. The two-hour, 45-minute race is scheduled to start at 3 p.m. EDT on Saturday, August 8. ABC will televise the race tape-delayed at 2:30 p.m. EDT on Sunday, August 9.

- By: Kap Shah

Taking a break from his duties as “The Stig” from Top Gear, 7-time Formula One champion Michael Schumacher will make a return for Ferrari to replace injured driver Felipe Massa. Ferrari confirmed earlier today that Schumacher has agreed to replace Massa until he is in the condition to return.

Massa received multiple skull fractures during an accident where he was hit in the helmet by a loose part from another car and crashed into a protective tire barrier at 120 mph. Doctors said that Massa will not be able race during this season.

Schumacher will race in the European Grand Prix on Aug. 21-23 in Valencia, Spain.

“Though it is true that the Formula One chapter has long been closed for me, it is also true that for team loyalty reasons I cannot ignore that unfortunate situation,” Schumacher said. “But as the competitor I am, I also very much look forward to facing this challenge.”

- By: The Daily Auto Editor

Source: Sports Illustrated

BMW surprised the Formula One world today by announcing their exit as a team and engine supplier at the end of 2009.

“Resources freed up as a result are to be dedicated to the development of new drive technologies and projects in the field of sustainability,” BMW said in a statement. “BMW will continue to be actively involved in other motor sports series.”

“Of course, this was a difficult decision for us. But it’s a resolute step in view of our company’s strategic realignment,” explained Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “Premium will increasingly be defined in terms of sustainability and environmental compatibility. This is an area in which we want to remain in the lead.”

Reithofer said that BMW will remain active in the field of motor sports, focusing on close-to-production motor sports and promoting young drivers.

Follow the jump for the press release.

Press Release:

BMW looks back on a long track record of success in the field of motor sports:

BMW achieved eight Formula One victories from 1982 to 1985 with Brabham. In 1983, BMW won the driver’s championship with Nelson Piquet (Brabham BMW). The last win with the legendary turbo engine followed with Benetton in 1986. Ten victories were scored during the partnership with Williams (2000-2005). BMW had a total of 19 grand prix wins and 33 pole positions before the BMW Sauber F1 Team era.

In its debut season in 2006, the newly established BMW Sauber F1 Team wound up fifth in the constructor’s championship. In 2007, the German-Swiss team came in second after McLaren-Mercedes’ exclusion from the points standings. The 2008 season saw the team in the hunt for the world championship until the end of the season, winding up third. Polish-born Robert Kubica achieved the first and hitherto only GP victory in Canada on June 8, 2008. So far, the BMW Sauber F1 Team has taken one pole position (Kubica in Bahrain in 2008) and 16 podium finishes. The BMW Sauber F1 Team occupies the eighth spot in the manufacturer’s standings in the season presently underway.

- By: Omar Rana

Ford Racing announced today that the Mustang, which hasn’t competed in NASCAR, will race in the Nationwide series when Ford begins a limited rollout of its new car in 2010.

“We had been talking with NASCAR for some time about Mustang as part of its vision for a ‘muscle car’ rollout for the Nationwide Series. We both saw it as a way of differentiating the series from Sprint Cup,” said Brian Wolfe, director of Ford North America Motorsports. “We loved the idea, so we jumped on the chance to extend Mustang’s racing legacy to a new series reaching a huge and loyal audience.

The Mustang’s motorsports history includes many types of racing including drag, road, drifting – but this will be Mustang’s first appearance in any NASCAR series.

Make the jump for the press release.

2010 Ford Mustang NASCAR:

Press Release:

MUSTANG extends racing presence – enters NASCAR FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 2010 NATIONWIDE SERIES

· Mustang will be Ford’s new race vehicle in the NASCAR Nationwide Series when it begins a limited rollout of its new car in 2010.
· Mustang’s motorsports history includes many types of racing – drag, road, drifting – but this will be Mustang’s first appearance in any NASCAR-sanctioned series.
· Mustang is Ford’s most successful race car in its long history

DEARBORN, Mich., July 28, 2009 – Mustang is already the most successful single nameplate brand in professional racing history, but it hasn’t competed in NASCAR – until now.

Brian Wolfe, director of Ford North America Motorsports, made the announcement today that Mustang will debut as part of NASCAR’s “new car” limited rollout in the 2010 Nationwide Series.

“We’re excited about Mustang coming to NASCAR,” said Wolfe. “It’s the most successful product nameplate in racing history, and it seems only right that it should be coming to the most popular form of racing in North America.

“We had been talking with NASCAR for some time about Mustang as part of its vision for a ‘muscle car’ rollout for the Nationwide Series. We both saw it as a way of differentiating the series from Sprint Cup,” said Wolfe. “We loved the idea, so we jumped on the chance to extend Mustang’s racing legacy to a new series reaching a huge and loyal audience. Mustang has dominated other forms of racing, including NHRA drag racing, Grand-Am Cup road racing, and Formula D drifting, and now it’s coming to NASCAR Nationwide.

“I think race fans – and Mustang loyalists – will be very pleased when we publicly roll out the first car later this fall.”

Ford Racing has gone through the official NASCAR submission and approval process for the new car, and, once templates are finalized, production of Mustang parts will start so teams can build the first cars for testing later this fall.

“We’re excited about the new car in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, and particularly the new body styles such as the Ford Mustang,” said NASCAR President Mike Helton. “It’s going to be one good-looking race car.”

The 2010 Ford Mustang will join the 2010 Fusion (Sprint Cup) and the 2009 Ford F-Series (Camping World Truck Series) as Ford’s competitive entries in NASCAR’s three major professional series.

“We’re excited about being able to race Mustang in front of our loyal NASCAR fan base and know it’s going to win races and championships just like it has in every other series it has competed,” said Wolfe. “The Mustang created the pony car movement when it debuted in 1964. Now, the NASCAR Mustang has the opportunity to create a whole new look to stock car racing at its highest levels.”

Mustang in Racing

From the time the very first Mustang rolled off the assembly line in 1964, it was destined to race. Whether it be from the 1960s drag racing cars and the Shelby GT350-R SCCA racers, to the Trans-Am Boss 302 Mustangs of the seventies, to the IMSA and Trans-Am cars of the eighties and nineties, to the drag race and sports car racing Mustangs of today, Mustang has been a winner.

Mustang currently competes professionally in the NHRA Funny Car and Pro Stock divisions and places like the Grand-Am KONI Challenge, SCCA World Challenge, and the Mustang Challenge Series. In addition, thousands of Mustangs see action by grassroots racers at road courses and drag strips all across America.

Since its debut in 1964, Mustang has compiled more than 2,000 professional racing victories in NHRA, Grand-Am, IMSA, SCCA, NMRA and NMCA, as well as other racing series.

The 2010 Mustang

Muscle goes modern for 2010 as the Ford Mustang – America’s favorite muscle car for 45 years straight – hits the streets with a new exterior design; new world-class interior featuring well-crafted materials and updated technology; and a V-8 with 315-horsepower and an even throatier signature Mustang exhaust sound.

In true Mustang tradition, there is a “steed for every need.” Customers can choose from a V-6 or V-8 with their choice of coupe, convertible or innovative glass roof, plus several new options and features delivering the opportunity for customers to personalize their cleaner, meaner-looking Mustangs.

The new Mustang was recently launched through the “The ‘10 Unleashed” campaign, which gives enthusiasts the chance to unleash their Mustang side behind the wheel of the new 2010 Mustang – whether it be drifting in Japan like world champion Vaughn Gittin, Jr. or customizing a new Mustang using Ford Racing Performance Parts.

Through Aug. 15, consumers can submit their own Mustang dream experience in 250 words or less via Ford’s “The ‘10 Unleashed” site at www.the2010Mustang.com. Written submissions will be judged based on creativity, uniqueness and execution of idea. Winning submissions will be selected every few weeks, and winners will be able to turn their Mustang experience into reality.

About Ford North America Motorsports

Ford North America Motorsports, based in Dearborn, Mich., is responsible for major racing operations in North America, including NASCAR (Sprint Cup, Nationwide Series, Camping World Truck), Grand American sports car racing, NHRA drag racing, USAC midget car racing and the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge for the Miller Cup. Ford North America Motorsports also oversees the development and marketing of Ford Racing Engines and Performance Parts, the outreach programs with all Ford Clubs and Ford enthusiasts, and the marketing of the Ford Racing brand through initiatives such as Team Ford Racing. For more information regarding Ford Racing’s activities, please visit www.fordracing.com.

- By: The Daily Auto Editor

Tuner Reiter is known for turning road-going Lamborghini into motorsport fun for the track. Their latest creation is based on the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4. Known as the Reiter LP560 GT3, the car is equipped with a new and more powerful 5.2L V10 making 570-hp with a maximum torque of 398 lb-ft.

With the new LP560 GT3, Reiter hopes to continue succeeding in its GT3 model series with previous victories held in the French FFSA GT3 and Asian GT3 championships.

Reiter says that three orders have already been placed and in September, Lamborghini and GT3 customers have the opportunity to test the REITER Lamborghini LP560 GT3.

Follow the jump for more pictures and the press release.

Reiter Lamborghini LP560 GT3:

Press Release:

Motorsport innovation with new REITER Lamborghini LP560 GT3

The REITER Lamborghini LP560 GT3 was tested for the first time in public and is more efficient than its victorious predecessor: More power, improved suspension geometry, refined and optimised aerodynamics and a reduction in weight are key factors for the performance increase. In addition the car scores with an innovative 2-in-1 concept.

The new car is based on the production Lamborghini LP560-4. The REITER LP560 GT3 is equipped with a completely new and more powerful 5.2 litre V10 engine producing 570 PS (419.2 kW) at 8,000 rpm. It also develops significantly more torque than its predecessor – namely 540 Nm at 6,500 rpm. An EFI Euro 12 ECU performs the engine management.

With its new car REITER Engineering aims to continue the winning ways of its GT3 model series. To date a total of 49 examples were sold to the worldwide customer base. And with success: In addition to numerous race victories a REITER Gallardo GT3 currently holds the overall lead in the French FFSA GT3 and Asian GT3 championships. A brace of team titles (ADAC GT Masters), three championship titles (Australian GT, FFSA GT, Italian GT) and two championship runner-up positions (ADAC GT Masters, FFSA GT) have been credited to the REITER designed and developed Lamborghini racer over the last few years. However, the talk can not be of matching previous successes, “since the new Lamborghini GT3 is clearly far superior in many aspects than its predecessor,” states Team Boss Hans Reiter

The car weighs-in at an impressive 1,190 kg and, as a result, numbers among the lightweights in the GT3 class. The reason for this is its unique light-weight design aluminium spaceframe-structure, which allows the chassis to be considerably lighter and extremely rigid torsionally. The front and rear bodywork and the sills are also manufactured from lightweight carbon-fibre.

The aerodynamic concept follows the high-downforce philosophy of the predecessor. A combination of the carbon rear wing, front splitter and the completely closed aluminium-honeycomb underfloor generate the downforce required. The aerodynamic could be improved by 8% compared to its predecessor.

According to comments by chief engineer Edward Turner the new GT3 suspension concept is based on its big brother the REITER Murciélago R-GT which has proven its competitiveness in recent seasons. CNC machined uprights, fabricated race wishbones, an 24-hour race braking system and the multi-adjustable race suspension specially developed for the GT3 car underline this and are the foundation for the improved suspension geometry. The state-of-the-art mid-engine concept gives the car excellent handling and forms the base for the perfect front to rear weight distribution of 43-57%

Equipped with 270/650-18 (front) and 310/710-18 (rear) REITER Engineering exploits the maximum tyre dimension on the rear axle which in turn improves the grip compared to the forerunner GT3 and, more specifically, allows significantly more constant lap times.

As usual a Holinger race gearbox ensures excellent power transmission. An Evo-gearbox enabled gear-shift times to be reduced by half. In addition, the fully programmable, electronic power management system (OBR) is another technical innovation that eases handling and maintenance.

A genuine motorsport innovation and interesting added value for GT3 customers: During the concept and design phase the REITER development team produced the REITER Convertible Concept (REITER CC/32). It allows the GT3 car, available for 265,000 Euro net, to be converted to a full-spec GT2 race car cost-efficiently in an ‘After Sales Solution’ for approx 30,000 Euro net. In this way customers receive a REITER LP560 GT3 race car which can start worldwide in the GT3 classes and also in the GT2 categories including the LM GT2 class.

Orders for three cars have already been placed. In September Lamborghini and GT3 customers have the opportunity to test the REITER Lamborghini LP560 GT3.

- By: The Daily Auto Editor

Vodaphone has launched their new Taxi Grand Prix fantasy racing campaign. Users can log on to the Taxi Grand Prix website, pick their team of taxi drivers and must have them finish the race before anyone else to win. The distance traveled by each taxi driver in real life is added to the player’s total points and virtual race.

A rather amusing TV ad spot featuring F1 drivers Lewis Hamilton and Heikki Kovalainen has been created to promote the Taxi Grand Prix.

Click through for the video.

- By: The Daily Auto Editor

Source: Top Gear

Red Bull has just released a new advertising stunt with NASCAR driver Brian Vickers and his pit crew perform a full pit stop in the middle of Times Square, New York.

We’re not sure if they got permission from the City to perform this stunt, but we’re pretty sure all the onlookers and passerbys had no idea what was going on.

20.6 seconds might not be the fastest pit stop ever, but it is in Times Square.

- By: Mo Eladawy

Rene Villeneuve and Henri Richard get behind the wheel of 144P, Team Polizei’s Porsche GT3 entry in the 2009 Grand-Am Rolex Series. The story starts at Laguna Seca, the proving ground for sports.

Check out the brilliant video put together by our friends at Garage419.