AutoAction
FREE DIGITAL MAGAZINE SIGN UP

Classic stripes for Heimgartner

By Thomas Miles

Andre Heimgartner will have a new tweak to his familiar #8 Supercars livery as R&J Batteries celebrates a milestone.

For his fourth season at Brad Jones Racing, Heimgartner will retain the trademark red, white and black look in 2025.

But it has a twist with some classic stripes added on the rear quarter panels of the Camaro.

This has been made to celebrate three decades for R&J Batteries from 1995 that has included supporting Supercars, drag racing to Stadium Super Trucks, speedway, Touring Car Masters and more.

But since 2021 the brand has stepped up its Supercars support where it has been the major backer of the leading #8 entry.

It was initially driven by Nick Percat before Heimgartner stepped up in 2022.

In all three seasons Heimgartner has finished in the top 10 of the championship.

The run was highlighted by a breakthrough win at Taupo last year where the Kiwi walked on water.

After bouncing back from and up and down start to 2024, Heimgartner finished the year well with a string of top 10s to retain the top 10 position.

In 2025 Heimgartner will run a new chassis that has been named “Rowdy Ronda” as a tribute to the wife of R&J Batteries co founder Ray Robson.

Heimgartner will enjoy a Shakedown at Winton Motor Raceway today before the test next week.

“It’s a special year for R&J Batteries, congratulations to Ray and Stuart (Hamilton, R&J Batteries CEO) on an incredible achievement,” Heimgartner said. 

“I’ve had the chance to see R&J Batteries locations and team members around Australia and NZ and they’re always so friendly and motivated – it’s a pleasure to be able to be part of their story even just a little bit.

“The car itself looks fantastic – the livery has had a bit of a refresh and it’s just stunning.

“Coming into 2025 with a new chassis, new livery and the support from the team at R&J gives us a lot of confidence that we’re going in the right direction.

“I went into the off season feeling that there was more on the table for us which just adds to the fire in the belly for this year.

“Can’t wait to get racing and for some of the big events of this year. Returning to Taupo will be special and we all have our eye on the JR Trophy, that’s a big goal for this year. 

“We came close in 2024, we were just a couple of points short in the end but that’s one that would be quite nice to win.”

Meanwhile, teammate Macauley Jones will stand out with an all new yellow livery.

Jones’ #96 Camaro is usually white with Pizza Hut backing but instead he will be yellow at both the Sydney season opener and following Australian Grand Prix.

“You won’t be able to miss the Pizza Hut car in Sydney, that’s for sure,” Jones said.

“Pizza Hut is all about being bold, having fun,  creating some energy and this livery reflects that.  The energy they bring to Supercars is refreshing and something that I love being a part of.

“We’ve had some truly dope liveries in the last two years and I can’t wait to share what 2025 will bring. Fans will froth the 96.

“We have some exciting plans for the rest of the year that I know fans will love—it’s going to be a memorable season!”

READ THE LATEST ISSUE OF AUTO ACTION HERE

Don’t forget the print edition of Auto Action available via subscription here. For more of the latest motorsport news, subscribe to AUTO ACTION magazine.