Dodge rolls out Penske Racing Challenger

Penske Racing’s Justin Allgaier, Driver of the No. 12 Verizon Dodge Challenger (left) is joined by (left to right) Dodge Executives Brian Viger (Dodge Motorsports and SRT), Mario D’Ovidio (Dodge Marketing, Dodge Small Car, SRT and Motorsports) and Dave Bailey (Senior Manager of Motorsports Engineering and SRT Body, Interior and Electrical) for the unveiling of the 2010 NASCAR Nationwide Series Dodge Challenger at Talladega Superspeedway. Chrysler media photo.

On Friday, Dodge Motorsports unveiled the 2010 Dodge Challenger as the “New Car” for the NASCAR Nationwide Series. At the same time, the company announced an expansion of its partnership with Penske Racing. Dodge will provide support for Penske’s team in both the NASCAR Nationwide Series and the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.

“As the performance brand of our new company, we are excited to expand our relationship with Penske Racing and introduce the iconic Dodge Challenger as our entry into the NASCAR Nationwide Series,” said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO, Dodge Car Brand. “Motorsports are a significant part of the Dodge brand’s legacy. Penske Racing has such a rich tradition in motorsports, and our partnership in the Nationwide Series will provide an excellent opportunity to showcase the Challenger and offer our loyal Dodge enthusiasts plenty of excitement in this very competitive series next year.”

Penske Racing will field two teams in the 35-event Nationwide Series, both running the full-season schedule. The Challenger will run in the four “New Car” races, starting at Daytona in July. At the other 31 events, Penske will run Chargers.

Justin Allagier will be at the wheel of the 12 Verizon Wireless Challenger. Allgaier, in his rookie season in the Nationwide Series, is currently fifth in the season point standings and the leader among Rookie of the Year candidates.

“Penske Racing has a very successful relationship with the Dodge brand,” commented Allgaier. “I am honored to be one of Dodge Motorsport’s drivers and to be able to drive the new Challenger in the NASCAR Nationwide Series is going to be awesome. The car looks great and will give the Nationwide Series its own identity.”

Joining Allgaier will be Brad Keselowski in the No. 22 Discount Tire Dodge. He also will compete in the Dodge Challenger for the four designated races and in a Charger for the remainder of the schedule.

“Today’s announcement further reinforces our relationship and commitment to Dodge Motorsports, and we are excited about our future with this great brand,” said Tim Cindric, President of Penske Racing. “We believe Dodge’s relationship with Penske Racing will continue to elevate and highlight both our brands and deliver value to Dodge enthusiasts.”