Franchitti gets sponsor for Daytona

UPDATE Dodge announced that Dario Franchitti’s #40 Dodge Charger will carry an “All-New Dodge Journey" paint scheme for the 50th running of the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on Feb. 17. The all-new 2009 Dodge Journey is the mid-size crossover that offers customers an alternative to the traditional car, minivan or SUV. With a U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $19,985, it falls between the compact Dodge Caliber and the Dodge Grand Caravan. The new 2009 Dodge Journey launches later this spring. The partnership has Franchitti’s Charger carrying the “All-New Dodge Journey" paint scheme throughout the 10 days of Speedweeks activities leading up to the season-opening Daytona 500. The 2009 Dodge Journey will be available in three models: Dodge Journey SE equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder World Engine and Dodge Journey SXT and R/T models equipped with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine and six-speed automatic transaxle with Auto Stick. Journey SXT and R/T models also are available with a state-of-the-art all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. Also in 2008, Dodge will introduce its modern muscle car the all-new Dodge Challenger. Dodge PR

02/08/08 The new Dodge vehicle – Dodge Journey – a SUV, station wagon "crossover" will be the primary sponsor for #40-Dario Franchitti in the 50th running of the Daytona 500. The deal is only for Daytona. After that Franchitti's #40 Dodge Charger's paint scheme may change from week-to-week as no set company has forked over the necessary money for the entire season. Is this reason for Franchitti to be alarmed? Not really. Owner Chip Ganassi has said he will run three cars all season. Tennessean