NASCAR has proven to be the technology proving grounds for companies throughout the industry as it continues to be at the forefront of innovation. Michigan International Speedway hosted a panel discussion at the North American International Auto Show. “Start Line to Finish Line: Engineers and Drivers talk Technology, Innovation, Racing and Fan Engagement in NASCAR” was featured Wednesday.
This superstar symposium took place during Industry Preview days of the auto show at the Cobo Center. Fans, media and guests who attended this unique presentation or listened online heard from engineers and drivers from all three of NASCAR’s manufacturers – Ford, Toyota and Chevrolet.
The hour-long program featured two panels. The event started with engineers from NASCAR, Ford, Chevrolet and Toyota and how they apply research, development and technology to cars and race cars. The second panel saw NASCAR drivers and executives from Michigan International Speedway and NASCAR discuss how they energize the sport’s fan base through innovative and technological initiatives that drive fan engagement.
Panelists included:
PANEL 1: Gene Stefanyshyn, Vice President, Innovation and Racing Development, NASCAR
David Wilson, President and General Manager, Toyota Racing Development, Toyota
Jim Campbell, U.S. Vice President of Performance Vehicles and Motorsports, Chevrolet
Jamie Allison, Director, Ford Racing, Ford Motor Company
PANEL 2: Roger Curtis, President, Michigan International Speedway
Gene Stefanyshyn, Vice President, Innovation and Racing Development, NASCAR
Kim Brink, Vice President, Marketing, NASCAR
Michael Waltrip, NASCAR driver/team owner of Michael Waltrip Racing, Toyota
David Ragan, No. 34 Front Row Motorsports Ford
Ryan Newman, No. 31 Quicken Loans Chevrolet, Richard Childress Racing
“We were thrilled to host this event at the world’s foremost auto show,” MIS President Roger Curtis said. “Technology and fan engagement in NASCAR, with its teams and drivers, the manufacturers and the racetracks has been a significant part of this business and this sport since its inception. Our sport is committed to continuous improvement and we were thrilled to share it with so many.”
MIS PR
