CHARLOTTE, N.C. – When the forest, lawn and garden equipment sponsor of NASCAR introduces a new chain saw, chances are good that its speed, power and toughness will be unmatched. Husqvarna, sponsor of both NASCAR and Joe Gibbs Racing, have introduced a new NASCAR Tough chain saw for 2006.
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The Husqvarna saw, which debuted in 2005 as the first outdoor power equipment product licensed by NASCAR, features an 18-inch bar with the recognizable NASCAR logo imprinted in full color, the first time a chain saw bar has been mass produced in color. In addition to the custom bar, the saw is packaged in a collector’s edition carton and includes a NASCAR authentication numbered hologram decal on the powerhead.
"NASCAR is pleased to partner with Husqvarna and is excited about its NASCAR licensed chain saw," said Blake Davidson, NASCAR's managing director of licensed products. "When you think about NASCAR, speed and power certainly come to mind. These same attributes can be applied to the Husqvarna NASCAR chain saw."
The saw itself is a special edition Husqvarna model 350 with a powerful 3.2 hp engine and many of the features of a professional saw. It has high-power and low weight, a high center of gravity and features Husqvarna’s exclusive LowVib vibration dampening system that isolates the handles from the engine using high-grade steel springs. The carburetor is also isolated from vibrations via a rubber adapter. This feature helps provide smoother operation and extended product life. The saw also features Husqvarna’s Smart Start system for easy starting and is equipped with a snap off cover for easy access to the spark plug and air filter. It also features Husqvarna’s exclusive Air Injection system that removes up to 97 percent of dust before it enters the filter, creating fewer filter changes and enabling the saw to run longer and stronger.
This Husqvarna/NASCAR news comes on the heels of the equipment manufacturer’s announcement that it has reached a sponsorship agreement with Joe Gibbs Racing for the 2006 NASCAR season.
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“NASCAR is a natural fit for Husqvarna,” said David Zerfoss, president of Husqvarna North America. “Speed, power, handling and performance are attributes that define both organizations, and we share a commitment to excellence that has made Joe Gibbs Racing one of NASCAR’s top performing teams, and Husqvarna one of the largest outdoor power equipment manufacturers in the world. We’re proud to renew our relationship with Joe Gibbs Racing.”
The contract includes primary sponsorship of Gibbs’ No. 18 car for three NASCAR Nextel Cup races. The blue, orange and white car will feature the Husqvarna logo on the hood, quarter panels and back sections. Husqvarna will also be listed on the car’s decklid as well as the transporter and pit box throughout the 2006 season, and the uniform of driver J.J. Yeley will include the Husqvarna name.
Husqvarna’s agreement extends into the Joe Gibbs Racing Busch Series team as well. Husqvarna will be the primary sponsor of the No. 19 car for four races. Aric Almirola takes the wheel for three of those races.
“Husqvarna’s employees and dealers really embody the teamwork and enthusiasm it takes to succeed, whether it’s in the marketplace or on the track,” said J.D. Gibbs, president of Joe Gibbs Racing. “We’re looking forward to an exciting season in 2006, especially with a nationally recognized brand like Husqvarna as part of our team.”
The renewed partnership with Joe Gibbs Racing comes at an exciting time for Husqvarna. By mid-2006, Husqvarna’s parent company in Sweden, Electrolux AB, will spin off its outdoor products unit into a new company, operating under the Husqvarna name. The outdoor products unit includes brands such as Weed-Eater, Jonsered and Poulan in addition to Husqvarna, and the new entity will become one of the world’s largest outdoor power equipment companies.
Husqvarna has long relied on its network of more than 5,000 dealers nationwide to distribute its products, and its partnership with Joe Gibbs Racing provides another opportunity to build stronger relationships with key dealers. Husqvarna will utilize the Joe Gibbs Racing facility in Huntersville, NC throughout 2006 for dealer events, and will invite select dealers to Washington Redskins football games and pre-season training camp sessions, which are included as part of the sponsorship agreement.
