NASCAR Inc. and Reel FX Home Entertainment today announced that the new animated preschool DVD series NASCAR Jr. will start production this summer. Set in the world of auto racing, the learning-based home video property is scheduled to launch in the spring of 2009. Reel FX holds the master license to develop and distribute programming and products for the property.

NASCAR Jr. revolves around five young friends who, with the help of their playful kid-sized cars, work as a team to tackle adventurous missions in their colorful vehicles, which mirror each driver’s distinctive personality. The episodes will aim to reinforce valuable life lessons such as working towards a goal, teamwork and problem solving, as well as the importance of friendship, family and kindness to others.

NASCAR and Reel FX are jointly developing the DVD series, which is co-created and exec produced by Dennis DeShazer, co-creator of the preschool phenomenon Barney the Dinosaur.

‘The world of NASCAR provides a strong creative springboard for developing colorful characters and stories that will resonate with young children and their parents,’ says DeShazer. ‘The series will tap into what preschoolers already love: cars, action and physical humor. At the same time, the programming will encourage key developmental skills such as imaginative play and critical thinking.’