[Mack Reeves]

Originally Posted by Tommy Gaynor

Nov. 5, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LAS VEGAS, Nv -- Fiat SPA announced today that it has joined in a partnership with Ford Motor Co. to continue its popular Dodge Challenger Drag Pack NHRA Stock Eliminator program in 2010.

Fiat, which recently acquired Dodge's parent company, Chrysler, and Ford officials completed negotiations on the program after meeting with NHRA officials today during the annual SEMA show that just wrapped up a three-day run at the Las Vegas convention Center.

"We, of course, received approval from NHRA to continue what sanctioning body officials believe is an important program for it and its members," Veo Scalopinni, Fiat's director of motorsports marketing, said today.

A key element in continuing the Challenger program, Scalopinni said, is Ford's decision to make available its highly popular FR500CJ engine, which will be used in 2010 Challengers.

"We think, with the development of the Challenger's unique four-link rear suspension, that the Challenger will be more than competitive against other makes and models," Scalopinni said.

Fiat has petitioned NHRA to have the Cobra Jet engine's horsepower rating reduced to 380 and is awaiting a decision.

I saw the same announcement on another site... The reporter says its the truth and nothing but the truth!!!!!