Western Star backs Prodrive

Western Star Trucks will continue to play a crucial role for V8 Supercars team Prodrive Racing, with the Penske-distributed brand recently signing on for a two-year extension of an existing contract that will see Western Star prime movers hauling the Prodrive race transporters for another 18 months.

The two-time defending Bathurst 1000 champions and team of current series leader, Mark Winterbottom, has been working with Western Star Trucks since the start of 2014. The alliance has been a successful one both on-highway and on the race track.

"Over the last two years Western Star Trucks has been an invaluable partner to our team so it is great news for everyone involved that we will continue that for at least another two," said Prodrive Racing CEO, Tim Edwards.

"Together we've won Bathurst and shared many other successes to date. Throughout it all, we've benefitted and relied on the power of Western Star Trucks to get us to and from the track.

"Our on-highway fuel efficiency is the best we've ever experienced, and when you drive as far as we do each season across Australia, that makes a big difference to the overall cost reduction and efficiencies."

The team use two custom-designed-and-built 5800SS prime movers, powered by Detroit DD15 engines and fitted with Truck-Lite accessories.

Penske Transportation Group International, General Manager Marketing, Kimberley Ruddock, said the partnership has been mutually beneficial.

"It is great to be continuing our successful partnership with Prodrive Racing," Ms Ruddock said.

"The success on the race track we've shared, coupled with marketing and promotional benefits of the relationship, means our partnership is multi-faceted and works across our entire business.

"The fuel-efficiency data from the team's on-highway use of the 5800SS is positive, and our engineers are using this to enhance our product range."

Prodrive Racing's next assignment is the long-haul drive from its Melbourne base to Townsville for the Castrol Edge 400 to be held over July 10 to 12, the next event on the V8 Supercars calendar.