As part of Nascar's commitment to greener racing the auto racing series has announced a new partnership with the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA).

To promote the decision that this year Nascar's three major national series will switch to Sunoco Green E15, a new 15-percent ethanol blend fuel made with corn grown in the US, the NCGA has been made an official partner of Nascar.

"For us it's an opportunity to tell a story," explained NCGA head, Rick Tolman. "For NASCAR, it fits the values of their core audience — American independence, American jobs — and it's more environmentally friendly."

Although financial details of the agreement were not released, Nascar official partnerships range between US$2 million and US$10 million annually, however, this deal is thought to be on the lower end of that scale.

"Ethanol is a growing use for corn, and provides us a domestic, renewable fuel that reduces emissions and creates jobs right here at home. We are encouraging corn farmers nationwide to watch the Daytona 500 on February 20th, and be proud of their role in fueling Nascar and the nation."

Brian France, Nascar chairman and chief executive, added, "Nascar is very proud to welcome as partners the hard-working family farmers all over the United States who grow the corn that will be used in our new Sunoco Green E15 fuel. We are happy our sport can play a part in creating jobs and fostering energy independence by using a renewable fuel grown and produced in America.".