Growing concerns over massive layoffs announced by American auto giants Ford and General Motors have caused a stir among those involved with NASCAR about the future of the sport and the manufacturers. Since its inception, NASCAR has relied on the support, including ongoing research and development, arguably allowing NASCAR to grow to its current levels of popularity among its worldwide fan base. While no actual cutbacks are tied to NASCAR, the announcement that Ford will cut more than 30,000 of its workforce leaves NASCAR wondering if the sport will feel the pinch of the tightened purse strings.

Citing concerns for the safety of drivers, pit crews, fans, and the environment, NASCAR drivers will switch to unleaded gas in 2008. The fuel, being developed by Sunoco for NASCAR, will certainly please environmental group that have been pressuring NASCAR to clean up the air around tracks. NASCAR has a legislative exemption granted when the 1970 Clean Air Act, allowing the use of leaded fuel now prohibited for use in traditional American vehicles. Tree huggers 1, NASCAR 0.

Known throughout NASCAR as an avid runner, driver Kyle Petty will swap out racing slicks for running kicks. Participating in the Walt Disney World Marathon on Jan. 8th, Petty will attempt to hold his own against fatigue, dehydration and use strategy to race to the front of a different pack!

You read it right...10 current and formerNASCAR drivers are lending a hand to help US Olympic bobsledders raise money. NASCAR driver Geoff Bodine, influenced by viewing European-made sleds in the 1992 Olympics, and determined to bring the US team US made sleds, pulled together resources and contacts to help out fellow fast-moving athletes. Combining NASCAR technology and good-old American determination, NASCAR and Olympic bobsledding continue their curious but oddly fitting relationship.

Combining the feel-good success of hit show "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" and NASCAR ensures that the fans will tune in--for either carpenter Ty Pennington or for NASCAR's Craftsman Truck Series. Airing Sunday, Jan. 8, the show will showcase the efforts of Circle Bar Racing to help a family in need. Looks like another perfect marriage of philanthropy and sports, pairing Craftsman Tools, giving drivers, and fans a peek into the generosity and community that is NASCAR.