Eneos, the brand created by JX Nippon Oil & Energy, recently announced an expansion to its North American sponsorship program. Eneos currently sponsors Kyle Larson in NASCAR and Steve Arpin in Global Rallycross. For 2017, the roster is extended to Daijiro Yoshihara who competes in the Formula Drift series.
Entering the series in 2004, the Japanese-born drifter is one of only four drivers to have remained in the series throughout its meteoric global rise. Winning the championship outright in 2011, Dai has become a mainstay of the series as a consistent points figure and scorer over the past 12 years.
For 2017, Dai will again compete in his Falken Tire/Turn 14 Distribution Subaru BRZ. This is the fourth year in the same car, which has been consistently developed throughout its racing career. It is fitted with a turbocharged 454 cubic-inch Chevrolet LSX engine boasting 962 horsepower at the wheels and 832 pound-feet of torque. As is essential in drift, the power is transferred to the rear wheels via a G-Force GSR four-speed transmission and Winters 10-inch quick-change rear-end.
Drift professionals need huge amounts of horsepower to generate ferocious acceleration. This is designed to get them into the first turn at high speed. The driver then uses the power to overcome the grip at the rear wheels and control the drift with a high level of skill. Drivers score points for style and precision, but competition is fierce, with a packed field of high-powered machinery and exceptional drivers.
For 2017, the car is largely unchanged from last year, although Dai has focused on improving the suspension set-up in the off-season, as well as overall durability.
“Every year our team focuses on winning the championship and we have a very good chance this year,” Dai said. “The car is the best it’s ever been, and we’re in great shape to really fight for the championship in 2017.”
As for the Eneos sponsorship, Dai was delighted at the new relationship.
“Growing up in Tokyo, I actually worked in an Eneos gas station,” Dai said. “The money I earned enabled me to start my racing career. Ever since then, I’ve been trying to work more closely with Eneos, and so I’m honored to finally be part of the Eneos Racing family. This is more than just a regular oil company; it is very well respected and makes great product. I look forward to contributing to Eneos Racing history this season.”
“We are delighted to have Daijiro Yoshihara join us for 2017,” said Motoshi Sunami, president and CEO of JX Nippon Oil & Energy, USA. “As the leading supplier of oil to the Japanese and Asian automakers, we are very happy to be involved in a sport that started in Japan and has spread, finding a home in the USA, just as Eneos and Dai have done. For us, Dai was a natural choice and we look forward to a great partnership.”
