The Super Taikyu season finale in November had a distinctly American feel, with NASCAR machines taking the track. We went to see this cultural exchange through motorsports firsthand.
American cars away from the track
During Super Taikyu’s final round, the speedway’s event space also hosted numerous attractions offering a taste of America.
One highlight was “America Park,” which showcased iconic cars from U.S. brands, including the Ford Bronco, Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, and Stellantis Ram 1500. Toyota also displayed its American-made models, the Tundra, Highlander, and Camry.
Visitors to the venue were fascinated by the U.S.-born Toyota vehicles, rarely seen in Japan.
Toyota Motor North America’s Sheldon Brown currently serves as Regional Chief Engineer (RCE) for the Tundra and other models. Engaged in vehicle development at facilities in both Japan and the U.S., he understands the car cultures and customers of both countries. We spoke to him about the Super Taikyu event.
RCE Brown
I think this is a truly wonderful event. Both cultures share a genuine love and passion for cars.
Japan’s exceptional carmaking spirit, its passion for design and manufacturing, and America’s love of cars and the freedom they offer. I think the two make for a great cultural pairing.
In particular, I work with trucks (such as the Tundra and Tacoma). Vehicles like sports cars and trucks are expressions of individuality.
In both the United States and Japan, people like modifying and customizing cars, and this is another area where we share many similarities.
Whether it’s American muscle cars or the JDM (Japan Domestic Market) models popular in the U.S., all these unique cars have lots of devoted fans.
Many people who saw the Tundra today told me, “It’s huge!” I think it’s really wonderful that they have the opportunity to see and touch these cars for themselves.
And being at a motorsport event makes it even better. Japanese people and Americans both love motorsports.
While Japan may be more familiar with European motorsports, I think it’s fantastic that NASCAR has joined the mix and all these motorsports can come together.
The love and passion for cars are universal.
For those who love cars and motorsports, it feels like something that flows through their veins, and I believe people in Japan and America have that in common.
I love seeing the customized minivans in Japan. I think they're really cool.
In America, there’s a similar feeling around off-road trucks. They too are about creating your own one-of-a-kind car to express your individuality.
Let’s enjoy each other’s cultures!
The season’s final Super Taikyu race has kick-started a U.S.-Japan cultural exchange through motorsports. What shape will these efforts take in 2026, as the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary? All eyes will be on Super Taikyu.