How would you rebuild a classic Chevrolet truck if you had both past and present parts at your finger tips? Valvoline gave Sprint Cup Series drivers Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Jimmie Johnson exactly that, and the big reveal of their custom reinvented trucks is now.
After several weeks of collaboration with Valvoline and Hendrick Motorsports, Earnhardt Jr. and Johnson unveiled their models.
In a nod to his birth year, Earnhardt Jr. selected a 1974 Chevrolet Cheyenne Super 10 pickup. The top-of-the-line truck came from an owner in Kansas with just 21,000 miles on the odometer. Its 350 V8 engine and 3-speed automatic transmission were upgraded to a Chevy LS3 V8 – a powerful motor – with 480 horsepower and 4-speed automatic transmission, respectively.
Johnson’s 1955 Chevrolet truck is a true original, coming from its first and only owner in Georgia where it served as a trusty farm truck, equipped with a straight 6 cylinder, 3-speed manual transmission. The selection showcases Johnson’s deep appreciation for the styling and lines of early 1950s trucks. Engine upgrades include a Chevy LS3 V8 with 480 horsepower and a rhino-lined engine compartment.
During the course of building, thousands of fans logged onto the Reinvention Project in an attempt to create a virtual build closest to Earnhardt Jr.’s or Johnson’s, and snag the grand prize – their own classic Chevy truck.
In the end, each truck was put to a final performance test drive: NASCAR style in an autocross challenge, smoking burn out show, and drag race. Fans are invited to submit their favorite reinvented models to Valvoline's Facebook page.
The Reinvention Project
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Jimmie Johnson's Trucks Revealed (SPONSORED)
Trend Themes
1. Classic Truck Rebuilding - Opportunity for businesses to offer services and products related to the rebuilding and customization of classic trucks using a mix of past and present parts.
2. Upgraded Engines - Innovation potential in developing more powerful and efficient engines, such as the Chevy LS3 V8, for classic trucks to enhance their performance and capabilities.
3. Virtual Build Competitions - Emerging trend of virtual build competitions where fans can participate online to create customized virtual models of classic trucks, presenting opportunities for engagement and brand promotion.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive Restoration and Customization - Opportunity for companies specializing in classic truck restoration and customization to tap into the growing demand for rebuilding services and aftermarket parts.
2. Automotive Performance Enhancement - Potential for businesses to develop and market high-performance engines and components specifically designed for upgrading classic trucks, catering to a niche market of enthusiasts.
3. Digital Marketing and Social Media - Opportunity for companies specializing in digital marketing and social media management to assist brands in organizing virtual build competitions, engaging fans, and amplifying brand visibility.