With the new Chevrolet SS heading to NASCAR’s primo Sprint Cup next year to replace the Impala currently being campaigned, it was only logical that Chevy’s aging track warrior also would be retired from service in the NASCAR Nationwide Series. The latest-generation Ford Mustang and Dodge Challenger are already doing in wheel-to-wheel combat in that high-profile support series, and starting next January when the season kicks off at Daytona, Chevrolet will step up and put its pony car in the Nationwide corral as well. Today, the automaker released the first images of its 2013 NNS-spec Camaro SS at a press conference in Indianapolis where both Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series events will be held this weekend.
While 2013 Sprint Cup rules allow vehicles to have a bit closer visual resemblance to their production peers, the Nationwide rules are even more liberal in that area. Good news for fans who have long clamored for race cars that dump the "cookie-cutter" look for a healthy dose of street-stock character — and even better news for Bow Tie Brigade loyalists who see the Camaro as the natural competitor in this arena. As Jim Campbell, vice president, Chevrolet Performance Vehicles and Motorsports, pointed out, the division’s latest offering will have no problems living up to that expectation. "The Camaro Nationwide race car incorporates many of the distinctive styling elements of the production Camaro, including the unique power-bulge hood and deep recessed grille. In addition, the design incorporates the distinctive halo light rings and dual-port grille appearances, and the gold bowtie." All that remains to be seen is whether this new Camaro can continue to be as successful in the race wins column as the Impala it will replace.
