WAU reveals first 2024 livery for Kiwi rookie

Walkinshaw Andretti United has revealed the first livery of the 2024 season, with the Ford team unveiling Ryan Wood’s maiden main game Supercar.

Wood, 20, will drive the #2 Mobil 1 Truck Assist Ford Mustang in the 2024 Repco Supercars Championship. The Kiwi’s Ford will carry the signature orange and black of Truck Assist, which most recently backed both Matt Stone Racing Camaros.

Wood has replaced Nick Percat, who shifted from WAU to MSR in the off-season.Mobil 1, WAU’s longest standing partner, returns for a 31st season with the team, and continues either with iconic branding position on the bonnet of both cars.

Truck insurance and roadside assistance specialist brand Truck Assist takes the major branding position on the sides of the car. The brand was first seen on a WAU car in 2021.

Parent company NTI, which was the co-naming rights backer of Percat in 2022 and 2023, will also appear on the front and rear of Wood's car. The white and orange livery was brought to life through PPG and Signzone. 

Also returning are WAU partners Morris, Ford Performance, Goodyear Autocare, Supercheap Auto, Corestaff, Kangan Institute, Move My Wheels, Palm Trans, PPG, RT Health, Coates, Thetford, Lloyds Auctions, Anthem Workwear, Woodstock Bourbon, Raceline Racewear, OMP, Authentic Collectables, Acronis, Think Technology, Lancaster Ford, Muswellbrook Ford, Oakley, Stratasys, TCL Hoffman, TPF Sports, Drummond Golf, Walkinshaw Sports and East Coast Lubes. In 2024, WAU also welcomes Chemical Guys, Durban Landscapes & Garden Maintenance and Design Ears.

Wood will join teammate Chaz Mostert at the pre-season test day at Winton Motor Raceway on Wednesday February 7.

"The Mobil 1 Truck Assist Racing Mustang looks awesome, the colours and livery are incredible, and it looks cool standing still, so I can’t wait for everyone to see it once we roll out on the track,” said Wood, who won five races in the 2023 Dunlop Series. 

“To be able to represent the partners involved in our team and on this car is really special to be honest. To have the Mobil 1 logo on the bonnet, Truck Assist logo on the doors, and all the amazing partners that make this team what it is, it’s just such an amazing opportunity. 

“A massive thank you to all of our partners, both new and existing, that have made this dream possible, your support for both myself and the team is really appreciated. 

“Really looking forward to getting behind the wheel, let’s see what we can do, it’s all starting to feel real now, someone pinch me.” 

WAU Bruce Stewart added: "It’s great to finally have the Mobil 1 Truck Assist Racing car out there for everyone to see, it’s a fresh look, has some serious presence, but still has our DNA throughout which is really important to us. 

“It’s been a quick turnaround between seasons and all of this wouldn’t be possible without our amazing partners. To have Mobil 1 back for the 31st year with our team, you just can’t put into words how grateful we are, and it’s brilliant to have NTI’s continued support through their Truck Assist brand, as our journey together continues.

"It doesn’t stop there though, we are extremely fortunate to have the amazing support of all of our partners, Morris who are entering their 14th season with the team, and welcoming Chemical Guys to the WAU family. 

“The support from our entire partner group has been incredible, you will see a lot of familiar brands on the car and we can’t thank them enough for their continued support with the team, while we also welcome our new partners to the WAU family. 

“We look forward to an exciting year for Ryan, he has genuine speed and we are eager for everyone to see what he can bring to the category both on and off the track. I can’t wait to get the season underway and see the Mobil 1 Truck Assist Racing car on track for the first test day at Winton on February 7.” 

Brad Phillips, Ampol’s General Manager Business to Business, said: "We are immensely proud to celebrate 31 years of technical collaboration with Walkinshaw Andretti United. 

“Our partnership has been built on a shared commitment to innovation, performance, and a relentless pursuit of victory. As we embark on the 2024 Supercars Championship season, Mobil 1 is excited to continue supporting Walkinshaw Andretti United in their quest for greatness and to introduce our expanded lubricant range through Supercheap Auto, further solidifying our dedication to motoring enthusiasts Australia wide. 

“As we celebrate this remarkable milestone in our enduring partnership, Mobil 1 is not only commemorating 31 years of success with Walkinshaw Andretti United but also revelling in 50 years of supporting local and global race teams in their quest for championship glory. This golden jubilee underscores Mobil 1's unwavering commitment to the world of motorsports and its dedication to enhancing performance on and off the track.”

Alan Hasted, Truck Assist’s Executive General Manager, said: "NTI’s Truck Assist is excited for a new season of Supercars with the Walkinshaw family, especially as we welcome Ryan Wood behind the wheel for his rookie year. Ryan is definitely one to watch, and we’re here to support him and the entire team, all the way. 

“WAU have worked tirelessly to prep for 2024 and we’re proud of not only how the car looks, but the way the team comes together to get the job done. It’s a promising year and we look forward to being part of the journey.”

The 2024 Repco Supercars Championship will get underway at the Thrifty Bathurst 500 on February 23-25. Tickets are on sale now.