Porsche Introduces One-Off, Road-Going 963 Inspired by Roger Penske

Submitted by ajh on Tue, 06/10/2025 - 12:39
Porsche 963 RSP



Ahead of this year's 24 Hours of Le Mans, Porsche has introduced a street-legal sister to the 963 Hypercar—the 963 RSP.

Based on the IMSA and WEC championship-winning car, the machine closely follows the design direction taken by the 917 "Count Rossi" from 50 years ago and made its debut on the streets near the Circuit de la Sarthe in France.

In April 1975, the 917—the most advanced endurance race car at that time–made the journey on public roads from the Porsche factory in Zuffenhausen to Paris, France. The owner insisted on as few changes as possible to the car, which remains in France, and on the road, to this day.

The 963 RSP features significant changes over the car on which it is based. Unlike the competition racecars, which are wrapped in different colors, the 963 RSP is the first of its kind to be painted; a unique challenge due to the nature of the carbon fiber and Kevlar bodywork which is ultra-thin in places to save weight.

In a nod to the Count Rossi 917, the 963 RSP is finished in Martini Silver and features uniquely altered bodywork and a bespoke tan leather and Alcantara interior inspired by the trim choices made by Count Rossi 50 years ago.

The 963 is powered by a 4.6-L twin-turbocharged V8 making up to approximately 680 hp that has its origins in the RS Spyder race program operated by Penske which claimed all titles in the LMP2 class of the American Le Mans Series from 2006 to 2008. The engine was enlarged from 3.4 to 4.6L and then used in the limited-production 918 Spyder road car, which debuted in 2013. While the 918 Spyder used the engine in naturally aspirated form, the 963 pairs it with two turbochargers provided by the Dutch manufacturer Van der Lee.

A dedicated mechanical and electronic setup were configured for its debut on the streets near Le Mans—including a raised ride height and softened dampers, as well as a reprogrammed control unit to allow for the headlights and taillights to operate closer to those of a road car. These changes, along with modified bodywork to cover the wheel arches, the use of Michelin wet weather compound tires and even the fitment of a horn meant the car met the necessary criteria to be allowed to drive on the road and wear license plates under special permission from the French authorities and with the support of the Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO), which runs the 24 Hours of Le Mans race.

For more information, visit porsche.com.

June 2025

ECR INDYCAR Engineer Ed Delporte, 53

Submitted by ajh on Tue, 06/10/2025 - 12:37
Ed Delporte


Ed Delporte, an engineer for the Ed Carpenter Racing INDYCAR team, has passed away after a battle with pancreatic cancer, the team announced. He was 53.

"Ed was one of Ed Carpenter Racing's original employees and has been with the team since its first race," the team said in an announcement of his passing on social media. "Not only was he a talented electronics engineer, he was a tremendous teammate and an integral part of our ECR family. A true historian of the sport, he attended 13 Indianapolis 500s before working 30. This year was his 31st and we are honored he was able to help us prepare for one more 500."

See the full announcement here.

Image courtesy of Ed Carpenter Racing

June 2025

Brian Redman to Receive IMRRC's 11th Annual Cameron R. Argetsinger Award

Submitted by ajh on Tue, 06/10/2025 - 12:32
Brian Redman


Brian Redman, a championship-winning sports car and formula car driver, will receive the 11th annual Cameron R. Argetsinger Award from the International Motor Racing Research Center (IMRRC) later this year.

Scheduled to receive the award on September 4, Redman will be honored for his universal contributions to help advance and improve the sport of motor racing, according to the IMRRC. He will also act as grand marshal at Watkins Glen International (WGI) for the SVRA Mission Foods Watkins Glen Speed Tour event on September 5.

Established in 2014, the CRA Award has been presented to such legends of the sport as Chip Ganassi, Roger Penske, Mario Andretti, Richard Petty, the France Family, Bobby Rahal, Lyn St. James, Mike Helton, Richard Childress and Zak Brown.

Although Redman retired as a pro driver following the 1989 season, he continues to race in vintage/historic events with a variety of historic race cars. He's the owner of Targa 66, a club for owners of high-performance road and race cars, organizing competitive events around the country.

In 2002, Redman was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, and, in 2011, the International Motorsports Hall of Fame. He's a past president of the Road Racing Drivers Club and a life member of the British Racing Drivers Club.

The award memorializes Cameron R. Argetsinger, who, in 1948, conceived, organized and drove in the first post-war road race in America through the roads of Watkins Glen. He brought Formula 1 to WGI in 1961 and the circuit hosted the United States Grand Prix for 20 years. He was president of the IMRRC for five years, until his death in 2008.

For more information, visit racingarchives.com.

June 2025

Holley LS Fest East Registration Opens Online

Submitted by ajh on Mon, 06/09/2025 - 16:08


Registration is now open online for Holley LS Fest East.

Scheduled for September 5-7 at Beech Bend Raceway Park and NCM Motorsports Park in Bowling Green, Kentucky, LS Fest East is bringing back all the crowd favorites in this celebration of all things LS.

Planned events include past favorites like the burnout wars, drift challenge, drag racing and car show, plus a new-for-2025 Ultra4 Off-Road Race.

Participant registration is now open for all categories at lsfest.com.

Click here for more information or to register for the event.

June 2025

Ram Returning to NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 2026

Submitted by ajh on Mon, 06/09/2025 - 15:01
Ram NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series


Ram is returning to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 2026, ending a 13-year absence from the series.

The Stellantis-owned brand unveiled a Ram 1500 concept race truck that previews the design for next year ahead of the NASCAR Cup Series race at Michigan International Speedway this weekend.

The Ram 1500 concept truck was designed by the Ram design team and was molded to resemble a production truck, adopting elements from the Ram Sport Truck lineup, including the body lines around the fenders and grille, which frame a large Ram logo.

Ram previously ended factory support of NASCAR's CRAFTSMAN Truck Series in 2012 after a 17-year run.

"For more than a decade, customers and our dealer network asked about getting back into NASCAR. The desire was always there, but we didn't have a plan that delivered the last tenth and following just didn't fit our DNA," said Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis. "Now we have a solid plan that will set us apart from the field and will bring fresh new interest and engagement to America's Motorsport."

"Ram returning to the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series is a major moment for the sport, and a sign that NASCAR remains a strong platform for blue chip brand partners," said John Probst, NASCAR executive vice president and chief racing development officer. "We are excited to welcome Ram back to the sport. Its identity includes high performance, durability and innovation--characteristics that embody NASCAR and, specifically, the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series."

For more information, visit ramtrucks.com.

June 2025

Race Winning Brands Appoints Matt Shaw as VP of Global Sales

Submitted by ajh on Thu, 06/05/2025 - 15:17
Race Winning Brands


Race Winning Brands (RWB), the Mentor, Ohio-based manufacturer of high-performance automotive components, has hired Matt Shaw as its new vice president of global sales.

Shaw brings experience spanning the automotive and powersports sectors, most recently serving as vice president of sales for Might Distributing System of America.

"I am thrilled to welcome Matt to the Race Winning Brands team," said David Buckley, RWB CEO. "His extensive experience across multiple facets of the automotive industry will undoubtedly add significant value to Race Winning Brands and our collection of iconic brands. With Matt's leadership, RWB is poised to expand our market reach and deliver even greater value to the racing and performance community."

For more information, visit racewinningbrands.com.

June 2025

Skip Barber Formula iRacing Series Returns for Six-Race 2025 Season

Submitted by ajh on Thu, 06/05/2025 - 15:05
Skip Barber Formula iRacing


The Skip Barber Formula iRacing Series is returning to the online racing platform with a six-race slate for the 2025 season.

Kicking off in June at the virtual Sebring International Raceway in iRacing's Formula 4 car, the six-race series will offer sim racers the opportunity to translate their skills into real-world Skip Barber Formula Race Series, with prizes valued at more than $500,000.

As in previous seasons, the grid for each event will be set by a three-day "Hot Lap Qualifier" time-attack session from Friday through Sunday, with the top 20 drivers making the cut for the following Thursday's race. Drivers who qualify for each race will receive coaching and feedback from real Skip Barber Racing School instructors in preparation for the race.

The 2025 Skip Barber Formula iRacing Series schedule mirrors many of the events on this year's Skip Barber Race Series schedule. As in past years, races will be broadcast live at iracing.com/live on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. ET.

The top three point scorers at season's end will take part in a three-day racing school and compete in a shootout later this year for a 2026 Skip Barber Race Series seat. One-day racing school certificates will be awarded to fourth and fifth in points, as well as the Hard Charger Award winner from each race, and all of the qualifiers for each race will earn a one-time $200 credit towards an SBRS course.

For more information, visit skipbarber.com/iracing-series or iracing.com.

See the full schedule below:

June 2025

Carlyle Tools Launches the MAX IMPACT Scholarship to Empower the Next Generation of Skilled Technicians

Submitted by ajh on Thu, 06/05/2025 - 14:09
CARLYLE MAX IMPACT Scholarship


The scholarship program recognizes students with the fierce resolve to make maximum impact in everything they do.


Carlyle Tools is proud to introduce the Carlyle Tools MAX IMPACT Scholarship to arm the next generation of skilled trade professionals with the tools and support they need to succeed. The scholarship program recognizes exceptional students who embody the Carlyle spirit: innovation in action and the fierce resolve to make maximum impact in everything they do. This monthly scholarship program will award each student with $2,500 and a professional-grade Carlyle toolbox so they can dominate in their field from day one.

For years, the automotive industry has faced a technician shortage, and the lack of a qualified workforce poses a significant threat to its livelihood. However, the next generation is waking up to the promising opportunity in skilled trades and becoming more open-minded about their post-secondary education options. Carlyle recognized this potential and introduced the MAX IMPACT Scholarship to support the endeavors of future techs.

"We believe tomorrow's technicians deserve to be equipped with the unrivaled power and precision that defines Carlyle," said Danny Huffaker, senior vice president of product and marketing at NAPA. "This Carlyle scholarship recognizes the new wave of technicians who are defying conventions and making smart career decisions, and our high-performance tools are built with the efficiency and durability they need to succeed."

The Carlyle Tools MAX IMPACT Scholarship will help unleash a new force in the skilled trades world. For Carlyle, this is an investment in the future forces who'll keep America's engines running, systems functioning, and industries thriving.

Program Details:

  • Eligibility: Open to students enrolled in accredited skilled trades programs focusing on automotive, diesel, collision repair, heavy equipment, marine, motorcycle and aviation technology.
     
  • Selection Criteria: Applicants are evaluated based on academic performance, demonstrated passion for their craft, technical aptitude and potential to make an impact in the industry.
     
  • How to Apply or Nominate: Applications and nominations can be submitted through NAPA partner, TechForce Foundation. Candidates must complete the online application form, submit academic transcripts, provide a personal statement explaining why they're built different and include at least one recommendation from an instructor or industry professional.


Scholarship Awards: Recipients will receive $2,500 and a professional-grade Carlyle toolbox, awarded monthly.

Carlyle is the tool line from NAPA, which has undergone a complete brand transformation to become top of the toolchain. Engineered by and for technicians to define unmatched quality and performance, Carlyle is BUILT DIFFERENT for the techs who demand power and accuracy from automotive tools.

For more information, please visit The Carlyle Tools MAX IMPACT Scholarship page: The Carlyle Tools MAX IMPACT Scholarship - TechForce.

For more information about Carlyle Tools, visit CarlyleTools.com.

About NAPA

Through nearly 6,000 auto parts stores and more than 18,000 auto care centers in the U.S., NAPA has America's largest network of parts and care. The NAPA Network is supported by nationwide distribution centers with approximately 800,000 available parts, accessories and supplies. Widely recognized for quality parts, rapid availability and knowledgeable people, NAPA Auto Parts stores serve automotive service professionals, do-it-yourselfers and everyday drivers with quality parts, accessories and supplies to keep cars, trucks and equipment performing safely and efficiently. In 2025, NAPA proudly celebrates its 100th anniversary by honoring its innovative spirit and centennial legacy through community initiatives and a renewed commitment to driving the industry forward for the next century. For more information, visit napaonline.com.

 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

June 2025
By
NAPA

Fueling, Reimagined: The Greaves 3D Fuel Bowser 2.0

Submitted by ajh on Thu, 06/05/2025 - 12:57

Delivering clean, accurate, and data-driven fueling, the Fuel Bowser 2.0—supported by United Race Parts—powers precision in the Hendrick Motorsports Garage 56 effort at Le Mans.

The Greaves Fuel Bowser 2.0 delivers fast, precise fueling for race teams—available in North America through United Race Parts with expert support.

In motorsports, precision is everything. Whether you're running an endurance race, rallying through rough terrain, or shaving seconds in a sprint event, every pit stop matters—especially when it comes to fueling.

Dump bottles and fueling guesswork are becoming a thing of the past. Today's top-tier race teams need equipment that's fast, reliable, and purpose-built for the demands of competition. The Fuel Bowser 2.0 by Greaves 3D Engineering is the latest evolution in race-day fueling—bringing precision, control, and efficiency to every refueling session. From reducing pit lane errors to simplifying operations, it sets a new standard in fuel management.

Distributed across North America by United Race Parts, this elite system comes backed by knowledgeable support and a team that understands the needs of racers.

Let's take a closer look at what makes the Greaves Fuel Bowser 2.0 a standout solution—and how United Race Parts helps bring that performance to teams across the continent.

Built for Durability and Mobility

It's not just a fuel tank—it's a complete fuel management system, engineered for performance and precision. Built for demanding race environments, the Fuel Bowser 2.0 is designed to last while remaining easy to maneuver and manage trackside. 

The 200-liter capacity and aluminum shell ensure long-term durability in harsh conditions, while anti-static braked castors provide safe, stable handling in the pit. Updated, separate storage compartments allow for tidy efficient storage of the fill and vent hoses.

Together, these features make the Fuel Bowser 2.0 both rugged and race-ready—built to meet the demands of high-pressure environments without compromising control.

Greaves 3D Fuel Bowser

The Greaves Fuel Bowser 2.0 delivers race-day precision in a compact, mobile design—combining clean fueling, real-time data and control in one powerful system, available via United Race Parts.
 

Smarter Fueling Starts Here

With advanced tech onboard, the Fuel Bowser 2.0 gives race teams real-time visibility into every fueling session—enabling faster, smarter decisions. A mass and temperature display with adjustable speed control ensures accurate monitoring, while the upgraded 12-in. captive toughened glass touchscreen with Wi-Fi connectivity puts live data at your fingertips.

It features a linear calculated density graph with an optional quadratic setting for added precision, plus a built-in service and maintenance tracker to keep performance on point. With user-configurable units of measure, the system adapts easily to global needs.

For seamless integration, the Bowser 2.0 works with the Greaves Fuel Timer and APMS Software—connecting your fueling data to your full race-day strategy.

Bowser Touchscreen interface

The Bowser 2.0's intuitive touchscreen interface delivers real-time mass, volume and flow data—enabling precise, automated fuel transfers with just a few taps.
 

Where Accuracy Meets Efficiency

The Fuel Bowser 2.0 doesn't just move fuel—it gives your team live insight into what's going in, how much and how fast. Engineered for total accuracy, the updated Bowser streamlines the fueling process with clean, efficient delivery and smart automation—eliminating the need for manual measuring or outdated dump bottles.

With 99% accuracy across its full 200-liter capacity, it features a 20L/min bi-directional pump and automatic full tank shut-off, minimizing overfill risks and enhancing control. The system's three integrated load cells ensure precise measurement at every stage—delivering consistency and confidence in even the most demanding pit conditions.

Equipped with AN-12 fuel lines, the system is fully compatible with E20 and high-octane fuels, and standard dry break fittings allow for quick, spill-free connections that keep fueling fast and clean.

With real-time mass and temperature data displayed on a responsive 12-in. glass touchscreen, you're no longer guessing—you're making informed, tactical decisions.

Greaves 3D Fuel Bowser 2.0

Every second counts in the pit. The Greaves Fuel Bowser 2.0 delivers fast, accurate fueling when it matters most—trusted by race teams and supported in North America by United Race Parts.
 

Safety That Performs When It Counts

Every component of the Fuel Bowser 2.0 is built with safety in mind—because pit lane conditions demand equipment that performs under pressure. The Fuel Bowser 2.0 features ATEX-approved components to meet industry-standard safety and compliance requirements, along with an emergency stop function for immediate shutdown when needed. This isn't just about fueling—it's about control, consistency and clean operation when every detail matters.

Fueling Excellence: The Greaves Fuel Bowser 2.0, Backed by United Race Parts

Engineered for precision and trusted by top teams, the Greaves Fuel Bowser 2.0 delivers reliable performance in the most demanding motorsport environments. In North America, it's available exclusively through United Race Parts, which offers expert guidance, fast service and streamlined access to the components racing professionals count on.

With a strong trackside presence across the United States, United Race Parts is more than a supplier—they're part of your crew. Whether you're upgrading your fueling setup or need quick support between races, you can count on their experience and commitment to keep your team running at full speed.

For more information, visit unitedraceparts.com.

June 2025
By
United Race Parts

Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America Raises $1.4 Million for Victory Junction

Submitted by ajh on Thu, 06/05/2025 - 10:41
Kyle Petty Charity Ride


The Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America raised more than $1.4 million after completing its 29th Anniversary Ride last month, organizers announced.

Funds raised directly benefit Victory Junction, a camp in Randleman, North Carolina, serving children with chronic medical illnesses. The Ride's donation supports summer camperships, building projects and maintenance programs.

Former NASCAR driver and racing analyst Kyle Petty led 125 motorcycles across seven states on a seven-day trek, covering more than 1,400 miles and stopping at iconic American landmarks along the way. The Ride began in Traverse City, Michigan and ended in Hot Springs, Virginia.

All along the Ride's 2025 route, fans came from miles around to welcome the riders, meet celebrity guests and support the cause. Highlights included seeing iconic museums such as the Henry Ford Museum and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, enjoying the magnificent sights of Lake Michigan, Lake Erie, Lake Ontario and Niagara Falls, taking laps around Watkins Glen International, staying at the historic Omni Bedford Springs, and ending with a finale celebration in beautiful Hot Springs, Virginia.

"The Ride is something that I look forward to each year, and to have the ability to create memories and lifelong connections with our riders is something that is extra special," said Petty. "This year's theme was the 'Tour of Wonders,' and we hit some incredible wonders along the way. From wrapping around the scenic views of Lake Michigan, Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, to the iconic Niagara Falls, and finishing the Ride through the mountains of Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Virginia, the natural backdrop to this year's route was breathtaking. We also made time for our riders to explore many of the places we simply passed by in previous years, such as the Henry Ford Museum, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and Corning Museum of Glass. To see so many fans at each of our stops was truly amazing, and their contributions to Victory Junction mean the world to all of us and help send even more kids to camp each year."

Victory Junction has served as the Ride's primary beneficiary since its establishment by Petty and his family in 2004 in honor of his late son, Adam. Since it first began in 1995, the Ride has raised more than $23 million for Victory Junction and other children's charities. As a result, the Ride has helped Victory Junction mobilize resources to provide over 136,000 camp experiences for children of all levels of abilities who are living with complex medical conditions at no cost to their families.

For more information, visit kylepettycharityride.com.