After 11 years of growth, the V8 Supercar Championship Series is more healthy and prosperous than most could ever have imagined. From backyard-based outfits to modern purpose-built facilities, today’s era has become more than just about the drivers and teams.

More squads in pitlane are taking control of their own manufacturing to the extent of building their entire race cars from the ground up, focusing more on the engineering prowess that really is the driving force behind the spectacle of this sport.

But the increasingly expensive technology and state-of-the-art equipment required to find the maximum horsepower and performance from these 5.0-litre engines is prompting a switch from manufacturing to purchasing, particularly where engines are concerned.

Stone Brothers Racing is leading the way for the Ford teams, while the strongest Holden powerhouse – and arguably the strongest of the current field – is the Walkinshaw Group.