SS GreenLight Racing Overview
SS GreenLight Racing is an American professional stock car racing team competing primarily in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. Established in 2000 and based in Mooresville, North Carolina, the team is owned solely by former driver Bobby Dotter. SS GreenLight Racing fields Chevrolet Camaro SS cars and maintains a technical alliance with Richard Childress Racing. The team has competed across multiple NASCAR series, including the Camping World Truck Series until 2017, before focusing exclusively on their Xfinity Series program. Despite extensive competition, the team secured its first victory in 2022 at Auto Club Speedway and fields several car numbers, including No. 0 and No. 07, primarily driven by Garrett Smithley and Josh Bilicki.
Founding and Organizational Origins
SS GreenLight Racing was founded in 2000, beginning its journey in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. The team was originally co-owned by Bobby Dotter, a former driver who also competed for the team in numerous races. Over time, Dotter became the sole owner, guiding the team through various phases of growth. During the economic downturn in 2008, SS GreenLight Racing merged with SS Racing, a team competing in the ASA series. This merger brought financial stability and combined resources, allowing the team to expand its operations. SS Racing had previously partnered with GreenLight’s Truck team on several occasions, and the full merger solidified their presence in NASCAR.
Growth Into NASCAR Competition
SS GreenLight Racing initially competed in the Truck Series, fielding multiple trucks with various drivers, including Bobby Dotter himself. The team developed its operational structure by recruiting experienced drivers and forming partnerships with sponsors and technical allies. Over the years, the team expanded its presence into the NASCAR Xfinity Series, gradually shifting focus from the Truck Series. By 2017, SS GreenLight Racing ceased Truck Series operations to concentrate on their Xfinity program. The team formed a technical alliance with Richard Childress Racing, enhancing their competitive capabilities. Key drivers such as Garrett Smithley and Josh Bilicki have been central to the team’s Xfinity efforts, piloting the No. 0 and No. 07 Chevrolet Camaro SS cars.
SS GreenLight Racing Competitive Journey
SS GreenLight Racing has progressed steadily through NASCAR’s ranks, starting in the Truck Series and evolving into a consistent competitor in the Xfinity Series. The team has fielded multiple car numbers and drivers, adapting to the changing landscape of NASCAR competition.
Early Seasons and Development (2000–2010)
The team’s early years were marked by participation in the Camping World Truck Series, with Bobby Dotter driving the No. 08 truck full-time in 2001 and 2002. The team also fielded other trucks such as the No. 07 and No. 0, with various drivers including Jason Small, Rich Bickle, and Shane Sieg. During this period, the team focused on gaining experience and building its reputation, achieving several top-ten finishes. Sponsorships and partnerships were critical in sustaining operations, with drivers often rotating due to funding constraints. The merger with SS Racing in 2008 helped stabilize the team financially and operationally.
Breakthrough in NASCAR Xfinity Series (2011–2022)
SS GreenLight Racing expanded its NASCAR presence by entering the Xfinity Series, initially fielding part-time entries and gradually increasing participation. The team partnered with other racing organizations, such as Viva Motorsports and Rick Ware Racing, to field cars with numbers including 55, 90, and 99. Notable drivers during this period included Ray Black Jr., Joe Graf Jr., and Gray Gaulding. In 2020, the team switched from Chevrolet to Ford, with Graf as the primary driver in the No. 07 car. The highlight came in 2022 when Cup Series driver Cole Custer secured the team’s first victory at Auto Club Speedway in a collaborative effort with Stewart–Haas Racing. That year also saw the debut of Hailie Deegan in the Xfinity Series with the team.
Modern Program and Current Direction (2023–Present)
In 2023, SS GreenLight Racing returned to Chevrolet and continued fielding multiple cars with a rotating driver lineup. Blaine Perkins began the season driving the No. 07 full-time but was replaced mid-season by various drivers including Carson Hocevar and Josh Bilicki. The team also expanded its collaboration with Kaulig Racing to jointly field the No. 14 car, driven by Daniel Suárez and others. For the 2025 season, Garrett Smithley was announced as the full-time driver of the No. 14 car, with BRK Racing forming a sponsorship and ownership partnership. The team continues to develop its technical infrastructure and maintain strong manufacturer relationships, aiming to build competitive consistency and achieve further victories.
Philosophy and Competitive Strengths
SS GreenLight Racing emphasizes adaptability and collaboration, leveraging technical alliances and driver rotations to maximize performance. The team excels in managing resources efficiently and developing talent across multiple NASCAR series. Their strategic partnerships with established teams and manufacturers bolster their competitive edge.
Key Milestones and Major Moments
The team’s first NASCAR victory came in 2022 at Auto Club Speedway, marking a significant milestone after more than two decades of competition. Other notable moments include the 2008 merger with SS Racing, which ensured financial stability, and the transition from the Truck Series to focus on the Xfinity Series in 2017. The team has also been instrumental in providing opportunities for emerging drivers in NASCAR.
SS GreenLight Racing Achievements and Results
SS GreenLight Racing has accumulated a substantial record of participation and competitive results across NASCAR’s national series. While the team has yet to secure any drivers’ championships, it has achieved key victories and consistent race finishes.
NASCAR Xfinity Series Achievements
The team’s first and only race victory to date was secured in 2022 at Auto Club Speedway by Cole Custer. Over the years, the team has fielded various car numbers with multiple drivers achieving top-ten finishes. The No. 07 car has been a central entry, with drivers like Ray Black Jr. and Joe Graf Jr. contributing to the team’s competitive presence. The collaboration with Stewart–Haas Racing in 2022 highlighted the team’s ability to compete at a high level.
Camping World Truck Series Achievements
SS GreenLight Racing competed in the Truck Series from its inception in 2000 until 2017. The team achieved one pole position and several top-ten finishes with drivers such as Bobby Dotter, Chad McCumbee, and Ray Black Jr. The team was known for developing talent and maintaining consistent participation before selling its equipment and owner points to Rick Ware Racing in 2017.
Other Series Achievements
The team has also participated in the ARCA Menards Series, with limited entries beginning in 2024. While no significant victories or championships have been recorded in ARCA, the team continues to expand its racing footprint and develop competitive programs across NASCAR’s developmental series.
