Camaro convertible to pace Indy 500

The 2011 Chevrolet Camaro SS convertible will serve as the official pace car for the 100th Indianapolis 500. This is the 22nd Chevrolet and the seventh Camaro to pace the Indy 500.

The special-edition car goes to auction at Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Jan. 22, with the winning bidder getting a chance to drive it in a parade lap at the race.

The auction car is one of 50 Indianapolis 500 Festival Committee cars to be sold.

Its paint scheme is similar to that of the 1969 Camaro convertible Indy 500 pace car. The exterior is Summit white with orange stripes and door graphics. The interior has orange leather and Indy 500 logo-embossed headrests.

This is the 100th year for both Chevrolet and the Indianapolis 500.

“It's an honor for Chevrolet to pace the 100th anniversary of the Indianapolis 500, especially during this landmark year,” said Chris Perry, vice president of Chevrolet marketing.

The 400-hp convertible will lead the 33-car racing field out onto the track for the race on May 29.

By David Arnouts