Wii-themed Car Headed to NASCAR

Nintendo of America announced today that it has formed a partnership with NASCAR’s Roush Fenway Racing and driver Greg Biffle, wherein a Wii-themed Ford Fusion car will debut later this summer. Undoubtedly a smart move for Nintendo, this new venture could not only give the hot system even more brand recognition, but given Nintendo’s inevitable presence at the events, it could also be a, dare I say it, driving force behind their ultimate goal of expanding the video game market. Of course, NASCAR isn’t exactly new to the world of video games, as EA and other publishers have been producing NASCAR titles for years, but this new announcement can only serve to help further merge the two cultures (not to mention come as quite a shock when Xbox 360 and PS3 owners see the Number 16 Wii car on the starting line in NASCAR 08). For more information, you’ll find the official press release below:

Concord, N.C. - July 16, 2007 - Nintendo’s record-selling Wii™ video game system takes video gaming to a whole new level with a partnership with Roush Fenway Racing and NASCAR Nextel Cup driver Greg Biffle. Biffle will debut the Wii-themed Ford Fusion at Watkins Glen in August and then provide an encore performance at Dover’s Monster Mile in September. Nintendo’s partnership with Roush Fenway Racing is the company’s first endeavor with NASCAR and it is excited about the possibilities it brings.

“Partnering with Roush Fenway Racing further demonstrates how Wii is bringing gaming to the masses,” says George Harrison, Nintendo of America’s senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. “Like going to a NASCAR race, playing Wii is a family event. Everyone can enjoy Wii regardless of his or her gaming knowledge and experience.”

Biffle has one Nextel Cup and two Busch Series wins at Dover International Speedway as well as one Craftsman Truck Series win at Watkins Glen. Biffle looks to improve upon those stats in the Wii Ford Fusion later this season.

“I’m excited about this partnership with Nintendo and the Wii system,” said Biffle. “I just got one myself and I love the boxing game. I’ve always been a fan of boxing and with Wii, it’s a workout. I really get into it. I’ll be driving the Wii car at Watkins Glen and Dover. I’ve got a pretty good record at Dover and I’d love to get the Wii car up front in both races.”

Team owner Jack Roush is pleased to add Nintendo to the list of power brands that have chosen Roush Fenway Racing for their entry into the sport.

“We have been fortunate at Roush Fenway Racing to add several well-respected and recognizable brands to our list of sponsors,” said Roush. “The addition of Nintendo’s Wii as a valuable partner to Roush Fenway is an asset sure to produce multiple benefits both on and off the track. I understand this is Nintendo’s first venture in NASCAR and I know our team will do everything in their power to make it a positive one.”

No. 16 Wii Ford Fusion Races with Greg Biffle
August 12, 2007 - Watkins Glen International
September 23, 2007 - Dover International Speedway
August 12, 2007 - Watkins Glen International
September 23, 2007 - Dover International Speedway