What is the Purpose of a Pace Car?

Out Pacing The Competition In This Pace Car

Out Pacing The Competition In This Pace Car

Why Do We Need The Pace Car In NASCAR?

While watching major automotive racing events, you might have noticed a car that leads the pack before the race starts or during random caution events. This is called the pace car, and it actually serves an important purpose.

There Are Multiple Reasons

According to USA Today writer Michelle R. Martinelli, a pace car’s primary purpose is to keep the drivers safe but also to get them warmed up before a racing event begins. When there is an accident on the track, bad weather, or some other event that could cause safety concerns, the pace car must insert itself in front of the leader of the pack and bring everyone down to a slow speed until the issue is resolved.

History Of The Pace Car

The first pace car ever used was in the Indianapolis 500 during the inaugural race in 2011. It was a Stoddard-Dayton, and Carl G. Fisher was the driver. Chevy vehicles are quite frequently used as the pace car for the Indy 500. Popular Chevy models for this honor include the Corvette and the Impala. In NASCAR races, the automaker of the pace car can vary depending on who sponsors the track. Chevy tracks use a Chevy Camaro.

Have more questions about NASCAR racing? Ask the experts at Dale Earnhardt Chevrolet near Hickory, NC.

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