U.S.: The Lancer Evolution Experience

Jim Russell Racing Drivers School has teamed up with Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) to create a driver training course that utilizes the Lancer Evolution.

OneShift Editorial Team

14 Jul 2009

The program, named the "Jim Russell Lancer Evolution Experience", was formally announced on July 11 at this year's Mitsubishi Owners Day (M.O.D.), the annual celebration of all things Mitsubishi held on the company's Cypress campus.

The Jim Russell Lancer Evolution Experience program will offer a full day of instruction that begins in the classroom and continues on the exciting track as drivers get behind the wheel of the latest Lancer Evolution.

The curriculum will focus on improving a driver's technique, speed and car control skills at Infineon Raceway, one of the most challenging race tracks in North America.

"Deciding to work with Mitsubishi Motors for The Lancer Evolution program was an easy choice," said Chip Pankow, president of Jim Russell Racing Drivers School. "We have been using the 4G63 engines in our Lola-built school cars and found them to be exceptionally reliable."

"The launch of The Jim Russell Lancer Evolution Experience strengthens our position as the leader in delivering new concepts and deliverables for automotive manufacturers seeking to broaden their customer base."

Those in attendance at M.O.D. will witness the reveal of two of the cars to be used in the Jim Russell Lancer Evolution Experience, as well as the single-seat, open-wheel FJR-50, Formula 3 derived race car, which is designed by Lola Cars International Ltd. and powered by the venerable Mitsubishi 4G63.

More than 1,500 owners and enthusiasts from around the country are expected to attend this year's M.O.D. which will showcase everything from Starions and 3000GTs to Eclipses and Lancer Evolutions.

In addition, all Mitsubishi owners will be eligible to participate in a drawing for a number of highly coveted prizes from participating vendors. The grand prize at the 2009 M.O.D. drawing will be the very first seat in the Jim Russell Lancer Evolution Experience at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, Calif., worth US$1,000.

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Credits: JRC