MAHLE Clevite Inc. (www.mahleclevite.com) announced its continued support of NASCAR by signing a new contract for the 2008 season. A long time supporter of NASCAR racing, the company has extended its agreement to again sponsor the Nationwide Series, Craftsman Truck Series and at the grass roots levels of NASCAR.

Under the agreement MAHLE Clevite will enter its second season of sponsorship of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, and will sponsor NASCAR’s Grand National Camping World Regional Series and Whelen All-American Series.

“NASCAR continues to be the premier name in auto racing,” said Ted Hughes, brand and communications manager, MAHLE Clevite. “We have been partners with NASCAR and its teams since the beginning and our strong support continues. A key ingredient of our NASCAR sponsorship is to support the weekend warriors of racing at the grass roots level.”

Hughes said MAHLE continues to sponsor the Engine Builder Showdown where NASCAR’s top engine builders race head-to-head to assemble an engine from bare block to running with a total pool prize of over $50,000. MAHLE also will present its Engine Builder of the Year award throughout each of NASCAR’s National Series.

“The Engine Builder of the Year provides an identifiable link for our customers to the products they use in their shops every day,” explained Hughes. “But it also helps us recognize NASCAR engine builders and aside from rewarding them for using our products, it gives them notoriety previously reserved for drivers and crew chiefs.”

To be eligible for the MAHLE Engine Builder of the Year award, the team must carry the new MAHLE white decal that is being transitioned into usage in NASCAR in 2008; and use Clevite engine bearings.

Nearly all MAHLE Clevite brands carry the exclusive NASCAR Performance trademark, including Clevite engine bearings, Perfect Circle piston rings, Victor Reinz gaskets and MAHLE Original oil pumps and valve train components.

MAHLE Clevite’s Internet address is www.mahleclevite.com.