Clean diesel technology to take part on the racing scene
Volkswagen will set a new trend in automotive racing in 2008 as the German automaker uses a technology that promises better fuel mileage and help the environment. This will be the first all-diesel powered racing series to join the Jetta TDI Cup.
Competing in auto racing not new for Volkswagen, it has been participating in Europe, Asia and Africa. Not to mention its performance in Dakar, said to be “the longest and most challenging cross-country rally event.”
Motorsport.com recently reported that 30 Jetta TDIs will be in the 2008 competition, with the winners given a chance to participate at the season finale for the VW Polo Cup series.
“The Jetta TDI Cup racing series will celebrate Volkswagen’s diesel technology and heritage in motorsports as good, clean fun,” said Stefan Jacoby, CEO, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “Not only will the young drivers gain real-life track experience in a factory-prepared race vehicle, it will allow them to develop their own mindset of today’s clean diesel technology, and foster increased awareness of its advantages in this new era of environmental sensitivity.”
SCCA Pro Racing’s president and CEO Robert Wildberger, said at the SEMA show, “With the Jetta TDI Cup, Volkswagen has created an amazing platform to develop young drivers and expand their knowledge about clean and quiet diesel technology.
“We look forward to the series in hopes that it will attract more attention to the drivers and advantages of diesel power.”
Although there are no final word on who will be driving these clean racing cars. Volkswagen will be accepting 40 drivers. 30 of these will be starters while 10 will be reserve. The first race will be on April 26-27, 2008.
News from: http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=276707&FS