Automotive Hall of Fame Announces 2004 Inductees

NEW YORK, April 6 -- The Automotive Hall of Fame has released the names of its 2004 class of inductees. They are: Bill France, Sr., Don Garlits, Donald Healey, J.R. "Pitt" Hyde, Battista Pininfarina, Heinz Prechter, Eberhard von Kuenheim and Jiro Yanase. Formal induction ceremonies will take place October 5, 2004 in Dearborn, Michigan.

The announcement was made today at the annual International Motor Press Association (IMPA) breakfast in conjunction with the New York International Auto Show.

Bill France, Sr. (1909-1992). The father of American stock car racing, Bill France, Sr., founded NASCAR in 1947. With the early rise of the sport in the 1940s, he recognized a need for uniform rules in stock car racing. Today, NASCAR is the fastest growing spectator sport in the United States.

Don Garlits (1932- ). The name "Big Daddy" Don Garlits is synonymous with drag racing and is known for his innovation and skill. He developed the rear "top fuel" dragster, as well as the first full-body, fire resistant suit. He was the first drag racer to surpass 200 miles per hour.

Donald Healey (1898-1988). Healey is the British sports car designer best known for developing the Austin Healey 100, which drew a legion of fans in the United States and around the world. Healey was also an accomplished racer with wins in rally races. He set a land speed record of 203.06 mph in 1956, driving a car of his own design.

J. R. "Pitt" Hyde (1942- ). As the founder of the retailing giant AutoZone, Hyde revolutionized the automotive aftermarket. In 1991, he was instrumental in overturning legislation that would have threatened the existence of the aftermarket parts industry.

Battista Pininfarina (1893-1966). The Italian automobile design genius, Battista Pininfarina founded "Carrozzeria Pinin Farina" in 1930 with the intention to build special car bodies. His work influenced countless Alfa Romeos, Fiats, Ferraris, Lancias and even the Anglo-American classic Nash Healey. The name Pininfarina is synonymous with many of the world's most significant automobiles.

Heinz Prechter (1942-2001). Heinz Prechter was the founder of American Sunroof Corporation (ASC, Inc.) and a tireless auto industry advocate. He experimented and engineered new vehicle features, such as glass panel sunroofs and pioneered the development of composite convertible tops.

Eberhard von Kuenheim (1929- ). Eberhard von Kuenheim was the Managing Director of BMW from 1970 to 1999. During his tenure, BMW established its reputation as a performance luxury icon.

Jiro Yanase (1916- ). As president of Yanase & Company, Jiro Yanase had a profound impact on Japan's automotive industry by providing the initial entrance into the Japanese market for many American and European automakers. In 1992, Yanase was recognized for his continuous efforts to promote imported products in Japan.

The Automotive Hall of Fame, the highest place of honor in the international motor vehicle industry, is located in Dearborn, Michigan.