Chevy's SSR to Pace 2003 Indy 500

On May 25, a pre-production version of Chevy's Super Sport Roadster (SSR) will pace the field at the Indianapolis 500. The SSR Pace Vehicle is pretty much identical to the 25 Signature Series units that will show up at a variety of high-profile events this year.

Chevy has prepared two SSRs for pace duties

• After the race, number one will be on display at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum.

• The second is vehicle #4 from the Signature Series line, a roadster-truck that will spend time at some of America's favorite racetracks before being auctioned with other Signature Series units.

If you want a pre-race preview, a third SSR that's very similar to the pace vehicles will be on display at the Indy Museum during May. Afterwards, it will become part of GM's historic collection in Detroit.

Chevy made some modifications to SSR to create the pace vehicle:

• A silver ghost-flame paint scheme appears across the hood, front fenders and doors
• A safety strobe light bar is recessed into the tailgate
• Special cast aluminum wheels and race event graphics were added
• Racing safety belts were installed
• An upgrade to heavy-duty engine and transmission oil coolers
• Higher rate springs and shocks were added to improve handling
• A lower restriction exhaust system increases performance needs

Herb Fishel, executive director of GM racing, will drive the SSR Pace Vehicle at the start of the race.