The 2017 Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show kicked off on Thursday, December 7 with a roundtable and town hall on the state of the industry. The common concerns of an industry that is aging without comparable new enthusiasts coming into the fold were matched by the uncertainty of what automated vehicles and new fuels will bring to the racing industry.
At the same time as the roundtable, the United States Motorsports Association launched their Save Grassroots Racing campaign at the Safety-Kleen booth with an incentive for people to sign the petition and join the association in the form of entry to a Polaris Sidekick giveaway.
The show is always a highlight of the year for the racing and performance industry, bringing together racers, crews, builders, buyers, media and spectators to reflect on the past year, plan for the future and figure out what the winter’s project is going to be. Drivers from the big series’, like the NHRA Mello Yello series, are here to sign autographs and meet fans.
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway sponsored a retrospective on AJ Foyt, showcasing the history of the Indy 500 icon.
It’s also a time where racing companies unveil new product lines and divisions, and companies introduce a whole new racing line. Both MAHLE motorsports and Hot Shot’s Secrets introduced new product lines on day one.
MAHLE announced MAHLE Performance Engine Parts which will be, according to the press release, ” the over-arching brand for a comprehensive line of performance engine parts beginning with MAHLE Performance gaskets as introduced at the 2017 Automotive Aftermarket Product Expo (AAPEX) Show followed by MAHLE Performance piston rings and MAHLE Performance engine bearings. MAHLE Performance engine bearings now to include coverage for Asian and European luxury and performance vehicles. MAHLE Clevite, long trusted for withstanding the harshest environment, will continue to be available for light to heavy-duty vehicles. ”
The 2018 partnership with Richard Petty and Petty’s garage was also announced, with the legend himself there to unveil the new giveaway vehicle.
Hot Shot’s Secret, a division of Lubrication Specialities, announced a new product line of performance racing oils.
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