Kasey Kahne and Richard Petty were on hand to help Tom LaSorda make the announcement. Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images for NASCAR

The green flag is up, and the race is on. Tom LaSorda has given the ok to put the Dodge Challenger pony car into production. The case has been made, public response was deemed strong enough to support it, and we will see HEMI power return to a two-door car.

"We haven’t seen this kind of spontaneous, passionate response to a car since we unveiled the Dodge Viper concept in 1989,” said LaSorda. “But it’s easy to see what people like about the Dodge Challenger. It’s bold, powerful and capable. It’s a modern take on one of the most iconic muscle cars, and sets a new standard for pure ‘pony car’ performance.”

The pony car war is back in business. But this time, Chrysler is more ready thant they were in the 60's, coming into the game last at 1969. Now they have a distinct opportunity to tie Chevy's new Camaro to the line.

For more details on the concept car and possible direction for a three-model lineup that will give the Mustang more than a run for its money, visit our coverage of the Challenger coverage by clicking the following link: http://www.motorsportscenter.com/article_713.shtml.

As for production details, we anxiously await the next announcement.