Richard Childress Racing (RCR) and Kevin Harvick Incorporated (KHI) have reached agreement to expand their already successful NASCAR Busch Series relationship going into the 2008 season.

KHI will take a more active role in this increased technical alliance with regard to testing, aerodynamics, suspension and chassis. RCR has been the engine supplier to KHI since the Kernersville, N.C.-based team fielded its first NASCAR Truck Series entrant in 2002.

"The goal of this increased relationship is to make both programs stronger," said Richard Childress, president and CEO of Richard Childress Racing. "Our plan is to field a fourth NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series team for 2008 so we're going to work more closely with KHI on the Busch side. Kevin and DeLana have put together a very good program and I have all the confidence in the world that we're going to have a better overall program than what we have already."

RCR's Busch teams have earned 45 victories and three championships since its formation in 2000. Harvick, driving for RCR, has earned all 29 of his Busch Series victories, series championships in 2001 and 2006 and, with Johnny Sauter, the owner's championship for RCR when they shared driving duties in 2003. KHI has earned three victories in the Busch Series and seven in the Truck Series.

"Richard has been very supportive of everything DeLana and I have attempted to do here at KHI," said Kevin Harvick co-founder and CEO of Kevin Harvick Inc. "As he goes forward with the planned expansion of his Cup program, I believe this partnership will continue to build on the success we have both enjoyed in the Busch Series."

SOURCE: NASCAR Communications