Electric Cars

Carson Hocevar, a native of Portage, began his racing career at the age of 14 at Berlin Raceway. This week, he returns to Michigan for the 'Money in the Bank' race at Berlin before heading to Michigan International Speedway for two races. Hocevar has raced at Berlin for eight years, considering it his home track and an annual homecoming. He recalls fond memories of his early days at Berlin and credits his talent and speed from the beginning. Mike Bursley, President of Berlin Raceway, coached Hocevar during his early years and recognized his exceptional abilities. Despite his growing success on the national stage, returning to Berlin remains significant for Hocevar.

A Return to Roots: Hocevar's Homecoming

Hocevar finds immense joy in revisiting his hometown, enjoying the comfort of family and familiar surroundings. The return to Berlin Raceway brings back cherished memories and allows him to relive the excitement of his early racing experiences. It is not just about competing but reconnecting with his roots and the community that supported his journey.

As Hocevar reflects on his time at Berlin, he reminisces about sleeping in his old bed and driving familiar routes. These moments remind him of the early days when he was learning the ropes of racing. His connection to Berlin transcends competition; it represents a place where his dreams were nurtured and where his passion for racing first ignited. Each visit rekindles his love for the sport and strengthens his bond with the people who have been part of his journey.

From Local Talent to National Star

Hocevar's rise from a young racer at Berlin Raceway to a prominent figure in NASCAR showcases his dedication and skill. Under the guidance of Mike Bursley, he honed his abilities and quickly established himself as a formidable competitor. His early successes laid the foundation for his current achievements on the national stage.

Bursley highlights Hocevar's remarkable talent, noting that even at 14, he demonstrated exceptional abilities that set him apart. Hocevar's vivid recollections of his first win at Berlin underscore the profound impact these early victories had on shaping his career. As he continues to excel nationally, his commitment to returning to Berlin exemplifies humility and gratitude. The significance of seeing accomplished racers return to their origins resonates deeply within the racing community, symbolizing the enduring importance of one's starting point in their journey toward greatness.

In an ambitious move, the renowned Retromobile event is expanding its reach to the United States. Gerard Neveu, a seasoned professional with a quarter-century of experience in motorsport and automotive industries, will lead this initiative. Known for his pivotal role in shaping the World Endurance Championship (WEC) and harmonizing regulations between US-based IMSA and ACO, Neveu brings valuable expertise. With plans to secure a vast exhibition space at New York’s Javits Center and partner with Gooding Christie’s for auctions, the show aims to capitalize on the thriving US classic car market, which accounts for over half of the global collectors’ car trade.

Retromobile Expands Horizons: Bringing Paris Charm to New York

In the vibrant autumn season of next year, from November 19th to 22nd, New York City will host its first edition of Retromobile, a globally acclaimed classic car exhibition. The event is under the direction of Gerard Neveu, whose extensive career spans both motorsport and the automotive industry. Having spent a decade overseeing WEC, Neveu fostered innovations like hybrid technology that attracted numerous manufacturers. Before WEC, he managed the prestigious Paul Ricard Circuit in Southern France. His current endeavor involves organizing an expansive display covering four halls within the Javits Center, amounting to 400,000 square feet, and securing partnerships such as the one with Gooding Christie’s for exclusive auctions. This strategic choice of New York aligns with its robust community of car enthusiasts and brokers, aiming for an impressive turnout of 200-250 exhibitors and 50,000-60,000 visitors.

The Retromobile concept distinguishes itself by uniting prominent car collectors, vendors, manufacturers, and brokers under one roof. It also attracts a passionate fan base eager to relive cherished memories through iconic vehicles. While the inaugural New York event seeks to emulate the success of its Paris counterpart, which drew 146,000 attendees last year, it aims to infuse local American charm into its presentation. Neveu emphasizes the challenge of maintaining the essence of Retromobile while celebrating the unique automotive culture of the United States.

From a journalistic perspective, this venture signifies a bold step towards globalizing niche markets like classic cars. It demonstrates how experienced leaders can bridge cultural gaps and adapt successful models to new environments. For readers, it highlights opportunities for growth and innovation in traditionally regional industries, proving that passion and vision can transcend borders effectively.