Tied in to the Cobalt Phase5 is the "Build Book." How has it been received and will there be any additions to it in 2006?
'We've gotten a lot of great feedback regarding the build book. We don't have a specific date for when there will be another edition, but we plan to use our website www.gmtunersource.com to post updates throughout the year. The website is great for allowing us to make up-to-date information available, without the time and cost of producing a physical book. The GM Performance Division is also working to provide more info on our 2.0L Supercharged ECOtec projects, such as the Time Attack champion Cobalt, so look for that this year."
How does the Sport Compact program strengthen GM's aftermarket program?
"In sport compact drag racing, we demonstrate the capabilities of GM parts. If an ECOtec motor and Hydra-matic transmission can handle 1200hp and power a Cobalt to a 7-second quarter-mile pass, then it can certainly be upgraded to do what any enthusiast might desire. Our program is the proof. And, although we realize that not many people want to go to the extreme that we do, our race parts are available for sale to any professional builder that might want to take on the task."
Is safety still a No. 1 priority at GM and what requirements, if any are placed on GM-affiliated teams?
"Safety is always top priority at GM. We require our supported cars to be of high-quality construction, and we repeatedly emphasize the essential step of a thorough chassis review before each run. Of course there is the HANS device, which we require our racers to wear and continue to encourage for all racers."
This will be your third full year as GM Sport Compact program manager. How have you seen the program grow during your tenure?
"It's amazing how much things change in this market. The speed of development runs almost as fast as our race cars - 200mph. The technology is remarkable. And we've made great strides in image as well. We went from being shunned to being respected to being coveted. People who once didn't know Chevy existed are now asking how they can get one. It feels great."
Are you looking forward to the new season and what do you hope the Sport Compact program can accomplish in 2006?
"I can't wait for the season to get underway. I'm confident that the teams will bring more championships for Chevrolet. Every season so far has brought 'firsts' and 'bests' in this series, and I expect 2006 to be just as exciting. As far as GM Racing's role, we will continue to improve the longevity and performance of our race parts; that's how we make GM products the hardware of choice for sport compact enthusiasts."