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

So once again, the field lined up behind the pace car, unable to do any passing.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 25, 2026

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 • Sep. 10, 2023

Robinson had gone from snowplow to pace car.

From Washington Post • Nov. 27, 2022

Bromsey rode in a pace car, climbed up the spotter’s stand and had a meet-and-greet session with Buescher.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 9, 2022

Drivers would recognize her, and she and Dave would meet many at post-race parties and on pace car drives.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2022