Dayco sponsored team first to finish Gen3 Mustang Supercar

The Dayco sponsored Blanchard Racing Team (BRT) has won the race to be the first Gen3 Supercar to hit the track in Australia, with the CoolDrive Auto Parts Ford Mustang taking to Winton Motor Raceway this week, steered by the team’s new recruit, Todd Hazelwood.

 Completely built in-house at the BRT workshop, the car sets the scene for the latest generation ruleset, where Mustangs will line up against Chevrolet Camaros for the first time in the modern era of Australian touring car racing.

 To coincide with the car’s first on-track appearance, the squad has also unveiled its warpaint for the 2023 season.

 “The new BRT001 in its striking CoolDrive Auto Parts colours looks amazing,” said Hazelwood.

 “The metallic blue paint really makes the finish of the car look super professional, and it looks fast just sitting still.

“I’m sure the Ford fans will love our blue CoolDrive Mustang, and I’m keen to continue with the testing and development program.”

 For Blanchard Racing Team co-principal, John Blanchard, the opportunity to be the first to complete a car to the new regulations is a source of great pride.

 “The effort that Mirko (De Rosa) and the entire crew have put into the build of this new Mustang is incredible, it is a tribute to the flexibility of a single-car operation,” said Blanchard.

 “The build of the new Gen 3 car started back September last year, when we started planning and preparing our resources in anticipation. We significantly increased our manufacturing capabilities, minimised outside commitments, picked up parts to save time on freight no matter where in the country they were, built as many components in house as possible to minimise reliance on third parties and just worked hard and long hours.

“I am very proud of everyone in our business and team for what they have achieved to get this car on track by 1 February. It has been a real team effort.”