Toyota to enter Truck series

Toyota already produces cars for several lower-level NASCAR-sanctioned series, but the announcement of its Craftsman Truck programme takes it one-step closer to a campaign in the premier Winston Cup category. Toyota has long been keen on entering the series, and is believed to be working towards a 2007 entry into the category.

"Everyone at NASCAR is looking forward to Toyota's participation in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series," said series president Mike Helton. "We feel their integrated approach to this series is going to provide our drivers, teams, tracks and fans many benefits."

Dave Illingworth, senior vice-president of Toyota Motor Sales, said: "We look forward to the Tundra's first race at Daytona. It will be a great opportunity to showcase our American-assembled full-size truck to the stock-car racing world."

Toyota will be the fourth manufacturer to join the Craftsman Truck Series, alongside Ford, Chevrolet and Dodge. All three existing manufacturers also compete in the Winston Cup championship.