Catchfence

Chevrolet to continue winning tradition in NASCAR with Impala as nameplate for new-generation race car in NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS)

Impala is Chevrolet’s passenger car flagship brand

The Impala was introduced in 1957 as a 1958 model.

- Impala name associated with performance from the earliest models, which raced on the sands and Speedway at Daytona, to the newest sleek 2010 sedan

- Chevrolet is transitioning to Impala in both NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and Nationwide Series beginning in 2010 as a result of the SS version being phased out of production in mid-2009

- NASCAR worked closely with GM Racing and Chevrolet to ensure that the NNS Impala race car carries the strongest production car characteristics possible while remaining true to the design intent of car with regard to safety and performance

- NASCAR has been cognizant of the importance to build brand character for fans in the design of the new-generation NNS race car

- Impala will debut on-track in NNS competition in July at Daytona International Speedway followed by three more appearances in 2010 at Michigan International Speedway, Richmond International Raceway and Charlotte Motor Speedway

QUOTE ATTRIBUTABLE TO PAT SUHY, GM RACING NASCAR GROUP MANAGER:

“GM Racing has worked closely with NASCAR on the rollout of the Impala as the new race car in the NASCAR Nationwide Series. I think our integrated approach in working with NASCAR on its new-generation race car has been valuable in helping them maximize the intent of the car with regard to the safety and performance aspects and, at the same time, value for us in gaining increased manufacturer identity with the Impala.”

“Running Impala in both of NASCAR’s top-tier series will increase Chevrolet’s exposure to the loyal NASCAR fan-base and allow race fans the opportunity to more closely identify with the production car they find on the showroom floor of their local Chevy dealership.”

QUOTE ATTRIBUTABLE TO SHANE MARTIN, GM RACING NASCAR NATIONWIDE SERIES PROGRAM MANAGER:

“I want to thank Richard Childress Racing for all of their efforts in assisting GM Racing with the development of this New Nationwide Car. RCR and Chevrolet have been committed to each other for 40 years and we are grateful for their ongoing support with projects such as this.”

“Running four races next year will allow our teams to understand how this new car performs on all types of racetracks. It will also allow the teams to earn points while racing the car and defer the additional costs associated with testing. The planned roll-out of the new Impala NNS car will give teams the benefit of both.”

Chevrolet NASCAR Nationwide Series Stats and Records:

2009 race victories: 10

Chevy has most race victories: 351 (of 870 possible to date)

Most manufacturers championships: 14 (of 18 possible – award began in 1991); 1992, 1993, 1994, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007)

Most drivers championships: 16 (1987, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008)

Chevrolet NASCAR Nationwide Series champions

· 1987 – Larry Pearson
· 1992 – Joe Nemechek
· 1993 – Steve Grissom
· 1994 – David Green
· 1995 – Johnny Benson
· 1996, 1997 – Randy LaJoie
· 1998, 1999 – Dale Earnhardt Jr.
· 2000 – Jeff Green
· 2001 – Kevin Harvick
· 2003 – Brian Vickers
· 2004, 2005 – Martin Truex Jr.
· 2006 – Kevin Harvick
· 2008 – Clint Bowyer

About General Motors:

General Motors Company, one of the world’s largest automakers, traces its roots back to 1908. With its global headquarters in Detroit, GM employs 235,000 people in every major region of the world and does business in some 140 countries. GM and its strategic partners produce cars and trucks in 34 countries, and sell and service these vehicles through the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM’s largest national market is the United States, followed by China, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Canada, Russia and Germany. GM’s OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. General Motors Company acquired operations from General Motors Corporation on July 10, 2009, and references to prior periods in this and other press materials refer to operations of the old General Motors Corporation. More information on the new General Motors Company can be found at www.gm.com.

- GM Racing Communications Press Release