Joey Logano, the celebrated driver of Team Penske’s No. 22 Ford, has recently ventured into the automotive retail sector by acquiring a stake in Kraus Auto Group’s Huntersville Ford dealership. This move, announced in 2024, reflects Logano’s ambition to leverage his racing experience to enhance the dealership’s performance in his hometown.
Logano’s Entry into the Automotive Business
Joey Logano aims to bring fresh energy to the Huntersville Ford dealership, which already operates under the successful Kraus Auto Group umbrella. Kraus Auto Group sold 18,622 vehicles in 2024, while Huntersville Ford’s sales typically range between 1,500 and 1,700 cars annually. Over the past year, Logano has studied the business carefully and plans to take an active role in its growth and operations.
“There’s a lot to learn, but I also feel like I can bring a lot to the table,” Joey Logano said via Auto News, “As a race car driver, you have an unfair advantage in business because I’m able to pretty much connect with about anyone I want to connect with, which is a great tool to have. The goal here is to take what Huntersville Ford already is in the Krause Auto Group, that’s grown an incredible business, and try to add a little bit more to it.”
Stacy Cowan, the General Manager of Huntersville Ford, expressed enthusiasm about rebranding the dealership around Logano’s name and reputation, hoping to attract more customers by capitalizing on his presence.
Insights on Ford’s Vehicle Lineup from Logano
As a dedicated Ford driver, Joey Logano operates several Ford vehicles, including his daily Ford F-150 and a classic 1924 Ford Model T. He is also anticipating the arrival of a new Ford Mustang GTD. His close relationship with Ford allows him to speak confidently about the brand’s current offerings.
“If you’re asking me as a race car driver, I want something fast, I want something reliable, I want something that’s unique and cool. When you look at the Ford lineup that they have, I think Jim Farley said this the best a few years ago: ‘No more boring cars.’ Even the practical cars are really cool. They have a good mix of cars that Americans want these days,” he said via aforementioned source.
Recent Performance on the Race Track
Despite his strong partnership with Ford, Logano faced a challenging 2023 season, missing the chance to defend his Cup Series title after being eliminated in the Round of 8. No Ford drivers made it to the final four that year, and Logano finished seventh in the standings, trailing his Team Penske teammate and challenger, Ryan Blaney.
Logano’s sole victory in 2023 came at Texas Motor Speedway, but his most dramatic race occurred at the Charlotte Roval when he narrowly defeated Ross Chastain to avoid elimination. His near-win at the All-Star race held at North Wilkesboro Speedway was hindered by an untimely promoter’s caution, affecting his final result. Overall, he scored seven top-five finishes, thirteen top-tens, and recorded four DNFs in 36 races.
Potential Impact of Logano’s Dealer Stake
Joey Logano’s investment in the Huntersville Ford dealership merges his racing expertise and local ties, a combination likely to influence both business and brand perception positively. His involvement could attract more buyers to the dealership, boosting the visibility of Ford vehicles in the region. As he continues to apply his competitive mindset off the track, this venture may set a precedent for other drivers considering similar partnerships.
