NASCAR Fans Respond to On Track Performance of Ford F-150 Race Truck No. 29; On the Road Performance of Power Stroke Diesel Engine

WARRENVILLE, IL (August 29, 2001) - Due to the overwhelming success of the Power Stroke(r) Diesel racing program, International Truck and Engine Corporation is extending its NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series sponsorship with driver Terry Cook and the No. 29 K-Automotive Ford throughout the remainder of the 2001 racing season.

The marketing initiative, which originally included six races, aligns the NASCAR and Power Stroke Diesel brands before a targeted national audience. International, manufacturer of the popular Power Stroke Diesel V-8 engine for Ford F-Series pickup trucks, Econoline vans and the Excursion SUV, cites an increase in the popularity of diesel engines for the enthusiastic response to the racing program.

"Walk through the parking lot at a NASCAR event, and it is easy to see that this is a great venue for promoting diesel pickup trucks and SUVs," said Dan Ustian, president, engine group, International Truck and Engine Corporation. "This sponsorship allows us to connect with customers who know, understand and appreciate trucks. The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series is all about tough trucks, and that's consistent with the Built Ford Tough and Power Stroke Diesel brands.

"It's about power, performance and a fun driving experience. That's what race fans understand, and that's what Power Stroke Diesel owners experience every day they get into their Ford trucks."

The large crossover of NASCAR team owners and crew members who rely on diesel-powered trucks is extending to the general public. NASCAR teams like K-Automotive use Ford Power Stroke Diesel pickups to pull show trucks and RVs to and from races, as well as for everyday use during their downtime, because of diesel's superior fuel economy - achieving up to 30 percent better fuel economy than gas engines. This benefit also makes diesel an attractive option for pickup and SUV buyers who tow RVs to their favorite NASCAR races - or just to drive to the grocery store.