Information contained in this news release is current as of the date of the press announcement, but may be subject to change without prior notice.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tokyo, July 24, 2019 --- Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd. announced today that Team Penske driver Josef Newgarden won the Iowa 300, the 12th race of the 2019 IndyCar Series, held on July 20 at the Iowa Speedway in Newton, Iowa. Team Penske is sponsored by Hitachi Automotive Systems and the Hitachi Group.
The Iowa Speedway is a 7/8-mile oval course, with the configuration of a gentle capital letter “D” overall. Average speeds on this course are not fast, but the 300-lap race provides ample opportunity to watch side-by-side tight racing with two or more cars. Josef Newgarden placed third in the qualifying round held on July 19, starting behind his teammates Simon Pagenaud in the pole position, and Will Power.
The start of the race was scheduled for 6:00 p.m., but was delayed for nearly five hours due to severe weather, finally getting underway at around 11:00 in the evening. Starting from the third grid, Josef Newgarden progressively moved ahead during a race with four course cautions including for contact with other drivers, eventually gaining the lead in Lap 49. A rain shower at Lap 55 led to a red flag and 25-minute interruption. Even with the fast running of his machine, Newgarden surrendered the lead three times. However, he held the top position for five-sixths of the race, ultimately taking the checkered flag.
Josef Newgarden achieved his fourth victory of the season despite the sudden changes in the weather, supported by his team’s exceptional skill in setting the car. With this victory, Newgarden retains the championship lead he has held since the 7th race in Detroit, Michigan on June 1, and receives a boost toward becoming the full season champion.
Moving forward, Hitachi Automotive Systems will continue to sponsor the IndyCar Series and other motorsports in order to further raise awareness of the Hitachi brand, and contribute to the promotion of motorsports.
Josef Newgarden running fast in the lead
Josef Newgarden (center) stands in front of his trophy
Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd., headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. The company is engaged in the development, manufacture, sales and services of automotive components, transportation related components, industrial machines and systems, and offers a wide range of automotive systems including Powertrain Systems, Chassis Systems and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.
For more information, please visit the company's website at
http://www.hitachi-automotive.co.jp/en/
