By: Toby Christie – follow on twitter @toby_christie

When Chevrolet announced that it was halting production of the SS, many wondered what car the manufacturer would select to run in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series in 2018.

The Cup Series has typically been a showcase of souped up versions of family sedans for a long, long time. As a result many expected perhaps a Malibu, or maybe a return of the Impala. However, Chevrolet declined to fall in line with the other manufacturers in the series, instead on Thursday they unveiled the Camaro ZL1 as their car of choice for 2018 and beyond in the Cup Series.

The machine is stunning, sleek and from a Motorsports perspective it’s smart.

A certain seven-time series champion is already a fan of his new race car.

“The new Camaro ZL1 is a great-looking race car with a lot of heritage behind it, which will make it a big hit with fans,” said Jimmie Johnson. “And as someone who’s enjoyed the ZL1 on the street, I’m really looking forward to getting this new race car on the track.”

Chevrolet’s Jim Campbell is excited to see the Camaro, which has been successful in several forms of Motorsport, start racking up wins in the Cup Series.

“Racers have long relied on Camaro to win races and championships in amateur and professional sports car and drag racing, as well as the NASCAR XFINITY Series,” said Campbell, vice president, Performance Vehicles and Motorsports. “We look forward to racing the Camaro ZL1 in the premier Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series.”

By announcing the Camaro as their Cup Series car, Chevrolet has sent a clear message to the the other manufacturers: the Cup Series is no longer strictly for family sedans.

The move should also resonate with fans of the sport.

This will undoubtedly spark some interest from gear heads and Camaro enthusiasts, something that NASCAR has definitely lacked over the last decade.

Now it’s your move Ford and Toyota.

Photo: @TeamChevy Twitter account