By Dave Lewandowski

indycar.com

HOMESTEAD, Fla. – Johnny Rutherford eased into the driver’s seat of the Honda Accord Hybrid that will serve as Official Pace Car for the 2006 IndyCar Series season for a get-acquainted time.

The three-time Indianapolis 500 champion is, among other duties for the Indy Racing League, the Pace Car driver for IndyCar Series races. He was impressed with the dash layout and creature comforts. After a few laps on the 1.5-mile Homestead-Miami Speedway oval, he also was impressed with the car’s capability.

“It’s quick, responsive and handles well,” said the man who knows a few things about cars. “I think it’s going to do well.”

Modifications to the Accord Hybrids required for IndyCar Series Pace Car duty include a safety roll cage and high-performance wheels and tires for race track use. The Accord Hybrids will be used at all domestic races, except the Indianapolis 500.

Continued:A first: Hybrid technology paces the field

How sad , I rember when actual cool performance cars were Indy pace cars:

What a sad country we have become. I feel sorry for the youth of the future.

I believe this is the first time a foreign auto manufacturer has paced the Indy 500 as well. All past pace cars have been from GM, Ford, and Chrysler.

I believe this is the first time a foreign auto manufacturer has paced the Indy 500 as well.  All past pace cars have been from GM, Ford, and Chrysler.

Modifications to the Accord Hybrids required for IndyCar Series Pace Car duty include a safety roll cage and high-performance wheels and tires for race track use. The Accord Hybrids will be used at all domestic races, except the Indianapolis 500.

QUOTE(Derek77 @ Mar 24 2006, 11:57 AM)

Modifications to the Accord Hybrids required for IndyCar Series Pace Car duty include a safety roll cage and high-performance wheels and tires for race track use. The Accord Hybrids will be used at all domestic races, except the Indianapolis 500.

Even if it's just Indy car races......it's still very sad!