In addition, there are a handful of other Ford teams that may surprise. Jim Beam Racing (nee DJR) really impressed in testing, with Steven Johnson putting down some solid laptimes at Queensland Raceway. In addition, Team Kiwi Racing looks to benefit from a technical alliance with Ford Performance Racing to give Paul Radisich a suitable machine.
The biggest question for Ford is how well its top operators will challenge the Walkinshaw Performance arm from Holden – an operation able to drawn upon vast resources, and important experience in the championship. Most Falcons should have no trouble rounding up some of the smaller Holden teams, but the Toll HSV and HRT will be the biggest challenge for deposed champions Ford to overcome.
My tips
Lead championship charger: Craig Lowndes
Best at Bathurst: Steven Richards/Mark Winterbottom or Craig Lowndes/Jamie Whincup
Top TeamFord Performance Racing
The 2007 championship gets underway this weekend in Adelaide for the annual Clipsal 500, to be held in the East Parklands of the South Australian capital.
![Toll HSV's new Holden Commodore VE [pic credit: Toll HSV media]](http://pix.crash.net/thumbs/289748.jpg)
