Driver Spotlight
Joseph Maas
What car do you drive? Year-make- model-class-modifications - future plans for the car.
I am currently using my 2014 Toyota PriusV in Stock FWD. No performance mods at this point, but I have done a ton of work on the stereo; SQ not SPL for those curious. It was designed with drive-ins in mind, so movie theater like frequency response was the goal. It’s been a great “little” car both on and off the track, but I don’t have any plans to mod it for Mod FWD. I do have plans to run my 2010 Honda Odyssey in Mod FWD for the 2025 season.
How long have you been competing in RallyCross, or other motorsports/ sports?
I started RallyCross in August 2023 and was immediately hooked. I have always loved racing but, until that night, all my racing experience was in casual sim racing like Forza. I have not really been involved in sports in a competitive sense ‘til that August night with AZRA. The experience with this great group of people has brought me out of my shell and I am now working up the courage to compete in USPSA matches.
What are some things you enjoy doing outside of cars/ RallyCross?
I have loved machines and building things ever since I can remember. This has grown into a passion for computers, firearms, woodworking, audio equipment, and RC cars (I’m going to say that doesn’t count as car stuff).
What is one personal motorsport highlight? RallyCross or otherwise. Similarly, do you have any negative moments?
Oh that is a tough one, as there has been a great moment in every AZRA event. “British Phil” has been doing amazing at course design and has given me the opportunity to gain understanding or learn a new skill every time I come out. Eureka moments are what I live for. Only one negative moment comes to mind. I have bumped cones before, but when I hit my fist cone head on, dragging it straight under the car, I froze. My mind going straight to the HV cables for the hybrid system, as they are not shielded. RallyCross is not the craziest thing I have done with my PriusV, so I am quite surprised in how I reacted. Shielding is something I will be adding should I decide to enter the Prius for another season.
Do you have anything else you would like to share with the group, and what plans and aspirations do you have for the future?
If I could add anything, it would be how warm, welcoming, and friendly the whole group has been. I look forward to many seasons with them! I would love to get into Stage Rally but the safety regulations put it out of my budget. It would be great to get into racing in some professional capacity, but I know I have much to learn about racing before then.