If you’re a NASCAR fan and you love Ford cars, you’ll have twice the reason to cheer at the 2009 Busch Series.
The Ford Motor Company recently announced that it might be replacing the Fusion that currently races in the NASCAR series with the iconic Mustang. This was the first time the automaker confirmed the rumors that have been circulating for more than two years.
The switch makes sense for Ford and NASCAR alike. For Ford, switching from a Fusion to the Mustang gives the company advertising for more than just one brand of vehicle. It also gives the Busch series “its own identity” because teams wouldn’t be able to gather as much information about the cars on the day before the race.
Before the Mustang enters NASCAR, engineers will need to bring it up to the standards set forth by the Busch cars. Safety specifications must be similar to those on the Nextel Cup “Car of Tomorrow.” These specifications go into effect after February 2009.
The switch isn’t completely official yet, though. If other automakers can’t make the switch to “pony car” coupes, it might not happen at all. If the change does happen, look for an official announcement from Ford and NASCAR soon after the start of 2009. Until then, just keep hoping.
