The No. 18 Interstate Batteries Chevrolet, driven by Bobby Labonte and owned by Joe Gibbs Racing, will sport a special paint scheme featuring Mel Gibson's movie "The Passion of the Christ" at the Daytona 500 on Feb. 15, broadcast on NBC at 1:30 p.m. EST.
AP/Wide World Photos
Interstate Batteries chairman Norm Miller told Fox News that they have advertised movies on their cars before, and that they will get a "double hit" with the success of the movie and promoting Jesus, whom he calls "the vehicle for our salvation."
Miller said the movie is powerful and misunderstood, and that it "portrays the most important 12 hours in history."
He added that his team is "privileged to be a part of its promotion to the world. Besides that, it may well be the number one box office attraction of the year. I certainly hope so!"
In a press release, Gibson said: "This film dramatically portrays an event that has affected all of our lives – regardless of one's religious affiliation, or none. Like Norm, I happen to believe this story to be true."
Gibson says "The Passion" is intended to inspire, not to offend.
"I know Norm Miller is a big supporter of the film, so it's very exciting for him to have the 'Passion' paint scheme on the Interstate Batteries car," driver Labonte said. "Jim Caviezel [who portrays Christ in the movie] will be in our pit on race day, so hopefully we can bring him a win in the Daytona 500."
Caviezel, himself a race fan, drove the 50th Anniversary Chevrolet Corvette Pace Car at the beginning of the 86th Indianapolis 500 race.
Editor's note:
Mel Gibson fights back and talks with NewsMax Magazine – click here for new revelations
James Hirsen’s "Tales from the Left Coast" - Find out the real story behind Mel Gibson’s "The Passion," and more!
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