Derrike will answer your questions this year. You can also read Derrike's answers to your 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2003-2004 questions.
- March 1, 2001
Question: Do you plan on using the Kentucky Speedway for testing? What type of cars will you test there?
The Kentucky speedway is an excellent facility. When we have adequate sponsor funding to enlarge our testing program, we will probably test there. That speedway provides an opportunity to test a down-force car like we would use at Las Vegas and similar tracks.
Derrike's Answer:
Question: What is your opinion of the Winston Cup qualifying changes for the 2001 Winston Cup season?
Derrike's Answer: I support the changes. Personally, I like one shot at qualifying with all cars competing for a starting spot on the same day. It saves teams money and enables the team to focus on the race setup on the second day. Personally, I prefer that qualifying be held on Friday as that is probably the most cost-effective approach.
Question: What type of information do you get from chassis-dyno testing that is not available from the standard dynamometer test?
Derrike's Answer: The chassis-dyno gives the actual horsepower to the rear wheels. Typically, horsepower loss from the engine to the wheels through the drive train is about nine percent.Question: What kind of investment is required to put a company name or logo on a Winston Cup car?
Derrike's Answer: A one race deal may begin at around $10,000. The number of races sponsored and the location of the logo on the car all effect cost.
Question: How do handling and performance characteristics differ at Daytona for a cup car verses a truck?
Derrike's Answer: The cup cars obviously are more sleek, draw less air and as a result create less of a wake behind the car. Because of their blunt shape, the trucks punch a larger hole in the air causing the truck to close more quickly in a drafting situation.