pace car

American  

[peys] / peɪs /

noun

1. (in auto racing) an automobile that leads the competing cars through a pace lap or laps and leaves the course before the actual start of the race.

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Etymology

Origin of pace car

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

The lengthy yellows took such a toll on the race that the pace car ran out of gas and needed to be refueled with more than 30 laps remaining.

From Washington Times

The lengthy yellows took such a toll on the race that the pace car ran out of gas and needed to be refueled with more than 35 laps remaining.

From Seattle Times

Robinson had gone from snowplow to pace car.

From Washington Post

“We are the pace car. That helps other people go faster and faster.”

From Seattle Times

Race organizers announced Tuesday they selected the IndyCar veteran and local fan favorite to be the celebrity pace car driver for the May 29 race.

From Seattle Times