Dodge unveils Challenger as new Nationwide car

TALLADEGA, Ala. -- Dodge Motorsports revealed the Challenger as its new car for the Nationwide Series and announced an expansion of its partnership with Penske Racing beginning in 2010.

Dodge will provide support for Penske Racing's two-car operation in the Nationwide Series, in addition to Penske's three teams in the Sprint Cup Series.

"As the performance brand of our new company, we are excited to expand our relationship with Penske Racing and introduce the iconic Dodge Challenger as our entry into the NASCAR Nationwide Series," said Ralph Gilles, president and CEO, Dodge Car Brand.

"Motorsports are a significant part of the Dodge brand's legacy. Penske Racing has such a rich tradition in motorsports, and our partnership in the Nationwide Series will provide an excellent opportunity to showcase the Challenger and offer our loyal Dodge enthusiasts plenty of excitement in this very competitive series next year."

Penske Racing will field two teams, both running the full-season schedule. The Dodge Challenger will be used at the four new car races NASCAR has designated, starting at Daytona in July. At the other 31 events that complete the 35-race season, Penske Racing will field Dodge Chargers as it did this season with the No. 12 driven by Justin Allgaier. Joining Allgaier will be Brad Keselowski in the No. 22.

"[This] announcement further reinforces our relationship and commitment to Dodge Motorsports, and we are excited about our future with this great brand," said Tim Cindric, president of Penske Racing. "We believe Dodge's relationship with Penske Racing will continue to elevate and highlight both our brands and deliver value to Dodge enthusiasts."

Allgaier, in his rookie season in the Nationwide Series, is currently fifth in the season point standings and the leader among rookie of the year candidates.

"Penske Racing has a very successful relationship with the Dodge brand," Allgaier said. "I am honored to be one of Dodge Motorsports' drivers and to be able to drive the new Challenger in the NASCAR Nationwide Series is going to be awesome. The car looks great and will give the Nationwide Series its own identity."

NASCAR is expecting full integration of the new car in 2011.