The key motivation behind Pye's Team 18 extension
Scott Pye says confirming his plans for next season was important for Team 18 as it heads into the Gen3 era.
It was confirmed Wednesday that Pye had re-signed with Team 18 on a multi-year deal.
The 31-year-old driver joined Charlie Schwerkolt’s operation in 2020; his new deal is set to see him as a four-year Team 18 driver at least.
The Gen3 project has gained significant momentum in recent weeks.
Notably, the GM and Ford engines are being tested, and aerodynamic simulations have reaped strong results.
Team 18 committed to representing General Motors for 2022 in August, and released renders of two Gen3-specification Chevrolet Camaros in the team's 2021 liveries.
For Pye, re-signing with Mount Waverley-based team ahead of the introduction of Gen3 was a key motivation.
“I’m excited about Gen3,” Pye said.
“I think it’s going to be a fantastic transition for the category to make and it's good for the future of the sport.
“For me personally, to be locked in for that transition period is exciting and something I’m really looking forward to.
“I’m looking forward to that new challenge, learning the new car and for the team as well.
“To work with the team on developing a new package is something that motivates me.
“I’m looking forward to that challenge.”
Team 18 has fielded Holden Commodores in the Supercars Championship since 2015, and expanded to a two-car outfit in 2020.
The team will continue to represent General Motors in the championship for an eighth straight season in 2022, and will retain a two-car model for a third season.
Pye, a veteran of 268 race starts, is buoyed by the challenge to lead the team into the Gen3 era.
“We are one of the smaller teams for sure, but I definitely don’t feel like we’re an underdog anymore,” he said.
“We are one of the teams that on our day we can win races, and for sure, we can be backing up week after week with podiums.
“So going with Gen3, I think the way the platform will look, will give teams like us a real opportunity to be punching right at the front consistently.
“The new package and the new platform we are going to have, I think really motivates me and I think we’re in a good position as a group to capitalise on this change in the sport.”
