Tag: Chevrolet

IndyCar’s Engine Deal- A Win for the Series

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Last week’s renewed cont5racts with Honda and Chevrolet allowed everyone involved to breathe a sigh of relief. rumors had been swirling since 2023 about Honda leaving the series when their contract end at the end of 2026. Chevy hinted that they may not want to be the sole supplier. The sticking point for HOnda was return on investment.

Honda gave out cryptic hints as late as August of last year. In a press availability during the Milwaukee weekend, David Salters responded to questions about Honda’s future in the sport with a vague “We love IndyCar.”

Chevy said that they love having competition, implying that they wouldn’t love racing alone.

In the end, all was resolved Beginning in 2028, the OEMs will provide new 2.4-liter V 6 engines with a hybrid component. To attempt to provide some return on the companies’ investment, IndyCar will grant each engine manufacturer a charter to field one car apiece. Honda and Chevy may field the cars separately, or they may affiliate with an existing two car team.

I really like this deal. It is innovative, and the contract gives Honda and Chevy a larger stake in the series. I am relieved that Honda is staying, and that Chevy will have the competition that they want.

I do, however, have some questions. There was talk of reducing the grid to around 25 cars. Is that talk now off the table since there will be 27 cars guaranteed spots in 2028? This deal leaves no room for new teams or cars outside of the Indianapolis 500. What happens to teams like Prema or their 2026 iteration? Will Dreyer & Reinbold want to continue as an Indy only team, just as they were on the cusp of expanding their program?

Exclusivity looks like a growing trend in motorsport, and I’m not5 sure that it’s necessarily a good thing. Established want to protect their investment. I get that, but I don’t think there is much chance a new team bumping a charter team from a race should the rules allow it.

Eventually new teams will need to come into the series. IndyCar needs to provide a mechanism for that. I don’t see any current team willing to sell a charter just yet.

Overall, the new engine agreements are one of the best deals IndyCar has ever made, but as with anything there are unintended consequences. I hope IndyCar can come up with a plan to avoid the possible pitfalls with this arrangement. Meanwhile, Iam excited for 2028.

INDYCAR Announces Historic, Multiyear Commitment from Chevrolet, Honda

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Editor’s note: Huge news from IndyCar, Chevy, and Honda

 Manufacturer Charters To Accompany Boosted Investment Across NTT INDYCAR SERIES

INDIANAPOLIS (Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026) – INDYCAR today announced a multiyear commitment from Chevrolet and Honda to continue as official Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) of INDYCAR and the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. Each OEM agreement will commence in 2027 and run for multiple years, reflecting the upward trajectory of the sport and new investments in its growth.The new commitment from Chevrolet and Honda represents a significant financial investment in North America’s premier open-wheel series. It is also an endorsement of the momentum and continued growth of the series.
Both manufacturers will also be heavily involved in the development of the engine and competition rules to be implemented with the new NTT INDYCAR SERIES car, which is expected to begin competition in 2028.

“This is a monumental day for INDYCAR, fueled by a massive and historic commitment from two of our best and most trusted partners,” INDYCAR President J. Douglas Boles said.
“Chevrolet and Honda have worked tirelessly with us over the last 12 months to get to this point, and both have made it very clear that they are fully committed to this sport and invested in continuing the positive momentum the series generated in 2025.”
“Chevrolet has enjoyed a long, successful relationship with INDYCAR as an engine manufacturer, and this extension paves the way for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES to continue to grow and for us to further maximize technology transfer from race to road,” General Motors President Mark Reuss said.
“The addition of a charter allows Chevrolet to join with other stakeholders to continue to make the series even stronger. INDYCAR produces consistently exciting racing on road and street courses as well as ovals, and we look forward to building on our INDYCAR legacy and put on a great show for our loyal Chevrolet fans.”

“To our esteemed Honda fans, customers and associates, we are thrilled to announce our ongoing participation in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES,” Honda Racing Corporation USA President David Salters said.
“With a deep respect for the history and competitive spirit of INDYCAR racing, we are proud to continue our involvement after more than 30 years. This long-standing commitment strengthens our ability to allow us to further develop our people and technology at the pinnacle of open-wheel racing in North America.

“The partnership between INDYCAR and FOX continues to grow, bringing outstanding race coverage and elevating the experience for fans everywhere. The future of INDYCAR looks incredibly bright, and we at Honda are honored to play a critical role in its continued success.”

This multiyear announcement extends Chevrolet’s current participation in the INDYCAR SERIES. Chevrolet is a nine-time champion since its return to the sport 14 seasons ago in 2012. Including the 1988-93 and 2002 titles, Chevrolet has won 16 total INDYCAR SERIES manufacturer championships.
Honda began INDYCAR SERIES competition in 1994 and has been a continuous and key fixture on INDYCAR grids as an engine supplier for over 30 years – including six seasons as the sole engine supplier. The 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season marked its 11th manufacturers’ title in multiple manufacturer competition and the fifth in the last eight years.
In addition to commitments made in engine development, engine supply and promotion of the series, each manufacturer will be entitled to own a charter to be utilized beginning with the 2028 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season.
“As charter entrants in 2028, Chevrolet and Honda now have a new and exciting opportunity to build on their incredible legacies across INDYCAR SERIES racing, while continuing their strong relationships with our current roster of teams and helping deliver an innovative and industry-leading new car in 2028,” Boles said.
The INDYCAR charter system was originally announced in September 2024. Charters were extended to teams based on full-time entries from the 2022-23 seasons, with a maximum of three awarded per team.
NTT INDYCAR SERIES teams with three charters are not eligible to utilize a fourth charter via an OEM.
Complete details of the powertrain parameters to be utilized with the new 2.4-liter, twin-turbocharged V6 engine with hybrid technology and introduced with the 2028 NTT INDYCAR SERIES car will be announced at a later date.
The 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season begins Sunday, March 1 at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on the Streets of St. Petersburg, Florida.
Coverage of the race begins at noon ET on FOX, FOX Deportes, FOX One and the FOX Sports app. Audio coverage will be available via the INDYCAR Radio Network on SiriusXM Channel 218 and the INDYCAR App powered by NTT DATA.

Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 To Pace 109th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge 

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From IMS;

C  INDIANAPOLIS (Tuesday, April 29, 2025) – The 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 – capable of 233 mph, the highest top speed of any car ever made in America by an auto manufacturer – will lead the field to the green flag for the 109th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on Sunday, May 25 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Designed for speed and performance, the Corvette ZR1 is up for any challenge, and the exterior and interior of the Corvette ZR1 will be on full display as the car fulfills responsibilities on and off the track.
Michael Strahan, a Pro Football Hall of Fame member, two-time Daytime Emmy Award winner, longtime “FOX NFL Sunday” analyst and “Good Morning America” co-host, has been named honorary Pace Car driver and will pace the field of 33 drivers in the Corvette ZR1 to start “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.”
“Chevrolet is proud that the 2025 Corvette ZR1, our fastest Corvette ever, will be the Official Pace Car for the 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500,” said Scott Bell, global Chevrolet vice president. “With a top speed of 233 mph, the Corvette ZR1 is the perfect fit to lead the Indy 500 field to green.”
The Corvette ZR1 delivers 1,064 horsepower at 7,000 rpm from a 5.5L twin-turbo V8, which is the most power ever from a factory Corvette and the most powerful V8 ever produced in America from an auto manufacturer. For Pace Car duty, the ZR1 is equipped with the Carbon Aero package, including dive planes on the front bumper, underbody aero strakes and the rear wing, which creates more than 1,200 pounds of downforce at top speeds.The Corvette ZR1 achieves incredible acceleration – capable of zero to 60 mph in 2.3 seconds before rushing through the quarter-mile in 9.6 seconds at 150 mph, making it the quickest Corvette ever.
Arctic White exterior paint and Jet Black interior accents pair nicely with the Indianapolis 500 logos on the Pace Car. The jewel tone, emerald green and gold of the logo are highlighted in racing stripes and additional exterior design elements. Carbon fiber wheels complete the car’s iconic, race-ready look.
“As we anticipate another iconic Indianapolis 500, we are once again excited to have the incredible American sports car Corvette pacing the field,” IMS and INDYCAR President J. Douglas Boles said.
“The race car-like performance of the Corvette ZR1 makes it the perfect car to pace the Indianapolis 500, and the distinctive sound of the Chevrolet V8 engine will echo brilliantly inside the walls of IMS.”Corvette is the longest-running car nameplate in automotive industry history, so it’s no surprise Corvette has paced “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” more times than any car.
The 2025 race marks the 36th time for Chevrolet to pace dating back to 1948 and the 22nd time overall, all since 1978, for America’s favorite sports car.
Visit IMS.com for tickets and more information on all Month of May events and activities at IMS.
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, available in 80 countries. Chevrolet models include electric and fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com. 

Corvette E-Ray to Pace 108th Indianapolis 500

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Quickest Production and First-Ever Electrified with AWD Corvette To Lead Field

From IMS:

 INDIANAPOLIS (Wednesday, May 8, 2024) – The 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray 3LZ coupe – the quickest production Corvette in history – will lead the field to the green flag for the 108th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on Sunday, May 26 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Designed for year-round performance, the Corvette E-Ray and its electrified All-Wheel Drive (eAWD) capability is up for any challenge, and the exterior and interior of the Corvette E-Ray will be on full display as the car fulfills responsibilities on and off the track.
“We are proud to announce the E-Ray, which is the first electrified and quickest production Corvette ever, will be pacing the 108th Running of the Indianapolis 500,” said Scott Bell, global Chevrolet vice president.
“As we often say, Chevrolet and INDYCAR share the same spirit of competition and performance-oriented, cutting-edge technology, making E-Ray the perfect fit to pace this year’s race.”
The Corvette E-Ray is the only sports car pairing two separate propulsion systems to provide naturally aspirated V-8 power with electrified responsiveness powered by eAWD, making it one like none.
A 6.2L V-8 is complemented by the electric motor that channels an additional 160 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque through the front wheels for 655 combined horsepower.
The addition of the electric drive unit helps the E-Ray achieve incredible acceleration – from zero to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds before breezing through the quarter-mile in 10.5 seconds. Stealth Mode enables the Corvette E-Ray to drive on electric power for up to 4 miles at speeds up to 45 mph.
The Corvette E-Ray features a host of functional design elements, adding wider fenders, quarter panels and fascias. The result is a sleek, sculpted presence with a number of aerodynamic and performance benefits. Standard ground effects and spoiler contribute further to its aerodynamic prowess, while matching body-color accents provide a refined look.
Arctic white exterior paint and two-tone jet black and natural interior accents, inspired by fighter jets, pair nicely with the Indianapolis 500 logos on the Pace Car. Carbon fiber wheels, with exclusive standard all-season tires, complete the car’s iconic, race-ready look and provide sure-footed performance in a variety of conditions.
“As we anticipate another record-breaking Indianapolis 500, it’s only fitting that the quickest production Corvette will pace the field,” IMS President J. Douglas Boles said. “The performance enhancements tested on the track make their way to the street, and the Corvette E-Ray is a prime example of that Chevrolet innovation.”
Corvette is the longest-running car nameplate in automotive industry history, so it’s no surprise Corvette has paced “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” more times than any car. The 2024 race marks the 35th time for Chevrolet to pace dating back to 1948 and the 21st time overall, since 1978 for America’s favorite sports car.
Visit IMS.com for tickets and more information on all Month of May events and activities at IMS.
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, available in 80 countries. Chevrolet models include electric and fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com. 
 

2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 RST Presented as 500 Festival Event Vehicle 

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From IMS. This is certainly… a choice.

 INDIANAPOLIS (Tuesday, April 2, 2024) – Thirty-five identical 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 RST trucks were staged on the main straightaway April 2 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a clear sign the Month of May is around the corner.
A longtime tradition, the “Festival Event Vehicles” have reminded Indianapolis-area residents of the upcoming Indianapolis 500 since the 1960s. The unique fleet of trucks will turn heads and capture attention throughout the state in the lead-up to the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge.
Presenting the trucks were J. Douglas Boles, IMS president; Pat Merna, 500 Festival vice president, strategic partnerships; Mike Boatright, 500 Festival board chair; and Mike Quinn, Chevrolet Indianapolis district sales manager.
\The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 RST 4WD Crew Cab is powered by a 6.2-liter V-8 and boasts 420 horsepower and a 10-speed automatic transmission. With body-color bumpers, center grille bars and door handles and dual active exhaust with sport mode, the Festival Event Vehicle is designed for those who seek adrenaline and action.
Built by fellow Hoosiers at the Fort Wayne Assembly plant, these trucks are ready to hit the streets with Radiant Red Tintcoat exterior, Jet Black leather interior, 22-inch high-gloss Black-painted aluminum wheels and custom Indianapolis 500 graphics.
“The tradition of providing Festival Event Vehicles is a hallmark in the countdown to the Month of May and the Indianapolis 500,” Quinn said.
“Seeing these Silverados on the road throughout Central Indiana will embody the passion Chevrolet, IMS and the 500 Festival have for the Indianapolis 500.”The 108th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge is scheduled for Sunday, May 26.
Visit IMS.com for tickets and more information on all Month of May events and activities at IMS.
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, available in 80 countries. Chevrolet models include electric and fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value.
More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

Development of INDYCAR Hybrid Unit Sees Significant Steps in Preparation for 2024 

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From Indycar. Commentary to follow in a bit.

 Collaboration To Take Most Competitive Racing in World to New Heights
INDIANAPOLIS (Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023) – Since the initial on-track testing of hybrid components over a year ago, development of the new NTT INDYCAR SERIES 2.2-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine with hybrid technology has passed many significant milestones.
The INDYCAR SERIES 2.2-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine was initially paired and tested with the hybrid unit Aug. 16, 2023, at Sebring International Raceway. In just three months, a total of 15,256 miles of testing have been successfully completed with the new power unit among 13 NTT INDYCAR SERIES drivers.
The much-anticipated debut of the new power unit is expected to launch after the 108th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge, during the second half of the 2024 INDYCAR SERIES season.
“The partnership between Chevrolet and Honda has been phenomenal,” INDYCAR President Jay Frye said. “The INDYCAR-specific hybrid power unit is dynamic and an engineering marvel, and we’re completely committed to its successful introduction next season.”
The INDYCAR SERIES, Chevrolet and Honda are working in collaboration on the development of the first-of-its-kind hybrid unit with testing on tracks that mirror the disciplines of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. Sessions have included ovals at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Milwaukee Mile and World Wide Technology Raceway, road courses at IMS, Road America and Barber Motorsports Park and the street circuit-like surface at Sebring.
INDYCAR’s hybrid power unit will enhance the racing action with additional horsepower and further the series’ efforts to deliver the most competitive motorsport on the planet. The new powerplant unit will feature additional overtake (“push-to-pass”) options, ultimately giving INDYCAR SERIES drivers more choices and control – enhancing the on-track competition and excitement.
The start of the 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season is expected to feature enhanced possibilities of track records with lighter chassis components (aeroscreen, bellhousing and gearbox) prepared for the hybrid addition. Once the hybrid unit is integrated, the remaining 2024 races will feature the intensified engineering and wheel-to-wheel precision of the hybrid power era.
The hybrid system is made up of the Motor Generator Unit (MGU) and Energy Storage System (ESS), which both fit inside the bellhousing, located between the INDYCAR SERIES combustion engine and the gearbox. Multiple strategies for regeneration and deployment have been tested as the power unit builds and transmits energy through the MGU before being saved in the ultracapacitor ESS.
The additional horsepower is deployed through the same motor generator. Unlike the traditional INDYCAR “push-to-pass” system, the hybrid power unit will not have a restriction on total time used over the course of a race.
Additional testing and continued development of the hybrid package will continue throughout the winter and spring months ahead of the first race in 2024.
More information on the competitive launch of the hybrid unit will be announced at a later date.
The 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season begins Sunday, March 10 at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding. Coverage will be available via NBC and Peacock with audio coverage provided by the INDYCAR Radio Network, SiriusXM channel 218 and the INDYCAR App powered by NTT DATA.

Corvette Hardtop Will Pace 107th 500

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From IMS

Corvette Z06 Hardtop Convertible
To Pace 107th Indianapolis 500  

INDIANAPOLIS (Tuesday, May 9, 2023) – For the first time in the storied history of this iconic car model, a hardtop convertible Chevrolet Corvette Z06 will lead the field to the green flag for the 107th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on Sunday, May 28 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The exterior and interior of the Corvette Z06 convertible will be on full display as the car fulfills responsibilities on and off the track.This is the first generation of Corvette Z06 to offer a hardtop convertible, greatly expanding the convertible’s ability to serve on track at any speed and provide open roof comfort on the street.Corvette is the longest-running car nameplate in automotive industry history, so it’s no surprise Corvette has paced “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” more times than any car.

The 2023 race marks the 34th time for Chevrolet to pace dating back to 1948 and the 20th time overall and since 1978 for America’s favorite sports car.

“As we celebrate the rich history of the Corvette Pace Car at IMS, it’s amazing to see the evolution of these cars on and off the track,” IMS President J. Douglas Boles said. “The hardtop convertible on the 2023 Corvette Z06 is just another example of the Chevrolet innovation that translates from track to street.”

Red Mist Metallic exterior paint and two-tone Jet Black and Sky Cool Gray with Torch Red accents on the interior pair nicely with the Indianapolis 500 logos. Spider-design forged aluminum wheels finished in Tech Bronze complete the car’s iconic, race-ready look.The 2023 Corvette Z06 is set apart by its beating heart, the 5.5L LT6 which creates 670 horsepower, making it the highest-horsepower naturally aspirated V-8 ever to ever hit the market in any production car.

All that power will be held to the track with the Carbon Aero package, providing 734 pounds of downforce at 186 mph, more than any other Corvette.In its 70-year history, Corvette has become synonymous with American sports cars, and the Z06 is the definition of America’s supercar. It’s authentic, optimistic, proud, young at heart and ingenious – values synonymous with both the Indy 500 and Chevrolet.

“We are honored to be pacing the 107th Running of the Indianapolis 500 with the Corvette Z06 convertible,” said Scott Bell, vice president, Global Chevrolet. “Chevrolet and INDYCAR share the same spirit of competition, and we are proud Z06 will lead the pack across the bricks at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.”

Visit IMS.com for tickets and more information on all Month of May events and activities at IMS.Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, available in 80 countries with more than 3.2 million cars and trucks sold in 2020. Chevrolet models include electric and fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com. 
 

2023 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertibles Presentedas 500 Festival Event Cars

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From IMS:

      INDIANAPOLIS (Monday, April 3, 2023) – Fifty identical 2023 Chevrolet Camaro SS convertibles were staged on the main straightaway April 3 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in a sign the return of the Month of May soon approaches.

A longtime tradition, the “Festival Event Cars” have reminded Indianapolis-area residents of the upcoming Indianapolis 500 since the 1960s. As the unique fleet of Camaros is driven around Central Indiana, they once again will turn heads and remind everyone “This is May.”

Presenting the cars were J. Douglas Boles, IMS president; Pat Merna, 500 Festival vice president strategic partnerships; Sarah Fisher, 500 Festival board chair and Mike Quinn, Chevrolet Indianapolis district sales manager.

The Festival Event Cars are a unique option code based off the 2023 Chevrolet Camaro SS convertible and are powered by a 6.2-liter small block V-8, which offers 455 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque.

The exterior of the car features Sharkskin Metallic exterior paint with special graphics from Chevrolet’s Performance Design Studio representing the 107th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge. The car also features an Ash Gray leather interior, a power-folding convertible top that can be lowered while driving at speeds up to 30 mph, Brembo front and rear performance brakes and 20-inch aluminum wheels.

“These Camaro convertibles are a symbol of the shared passion Chevrolet, INDYCAR and the 500 Festival board have for the Indianapolis 500,” Quinn said. “Living and working in Central Indiana, seeing these Camaros on the road always reminds me we’re one step closer to May.”

The 107th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge is scheduled for Sunday, May 28, 2023. Visit IMS.com for tickets and more information on all Month of May events and activities at IMS.

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, available in 80 countries with more than 3.2 million cars and trucks sold in 2020. Chevrolet models include electric and fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.  
 

It’s Not the End of the World

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News Tuesday afternoon that the anticipated 2.4 liter engine, set to debut in 2024, has been shelved sent a tsunami of gloom and doom through the Indycar fan base. Soaring production casts and issues with the new hybrid componen, as well as a lack of a third OEM, all contributed to the decision by Honda, Chevrolet, and the series to rake a step back.

The two engine manufacturers also had to redirect some of the resources for the new engine to help develop the ERS hybrid system.

The higher cost of the 2.4 liter twin turbo meant that fewer cars would be on the grid. Only as many as 12 cars, maybe fewer, could be supplied at that price. Indycar would have had a smaller grid, and likely a shrunken field for the 500.

Am I disappointed? Yes. i was looking forward to the sound of the bigger engine. Is the series doomed? I don’t think so. Indycar is coming off a great season and is anticipating a larger full time grid for the coming season. This is a setback, no doubt, but it prevents a shrinkage of the grid for 2024 and beyond.

I am more concerned about the series marketing efforts. When a new marketing director is on board, that needs a budget at least quadruple what it is now. The series has for far too long relied on others to promote for them. They need to be more proactive and give the new director more tools to work with.

While the optics of the engine n3ws looks bad, it is not the end of the world. Let’s enjoy what we have for now.