General Motors not content to lose money on cars, sponsors a ‘Test Track’ in Vegas

It seems that General Motors – fresh after posting a record loss in their last quarter – is ponying up the cash to lease the Sahara’s back parking lot and turn it into a consumer-themed test track. Included in the deal is naming rights for the Sahara’s Monorail Station as well.

From the USA Today:

A parking lot behind the Sahara hotel-casino will be converted into an automotive playground and the Strip’s newest attraction with the addition of test tracks where would-be racers can take cars, trucks or SUVs for a spin.

Officials from General Motors, the Sahara and the Las Vegas Monorail announced a deal Tuesday that will lease the 11-acre lot to GM for a public test track.

“The Drive” could open by mid-March, offering licensed drivers the chance to drive GM vehicles on a high-performance test track or an off-road demonstration course for a fee.

GM also will buy theming and naming rights to the monorail’s Sahara station, giving the rapid transit line a much-needed cash infusion and more potential riders.