Aeroflow Nitro Funny Cars driver Damon Paton will unveil an all-new Toyota Camry this Australia Day weekend as the team kicks off the 2026 season at the Pro Alcohol Nationals.
The new Camry marks the next evolution for the Aeroflow Nitro Funny Cars program, featuring updated technology and a completely fresh build compared to Paton’s previous car.
“The new car is Toyota Camry, but it’s all new and carries some later technology than the previous car,” Paton said. “It looks amazing and represents a big step forward for our program.”
The team recently completed its first round of testing at Sydney Dragway, though conditions made the outing anything but straightforward.
“The day was over 40 degrees so we only managed two passes late at night, but even then, the short numbers were very promising.”
While the new Camry is noticeably different behind the wheel, early signs suggest strong potential once the combination is fully dialled in.
“The car is quite different to drive and it’s going to take some getting used to, but what we saw gives us a lot of confidence.”
Paton enters the new season fresh off completing his first full year in Nitro Funny Car competition, a campaign he describes as exceeding all expectations.
“It was a steep learning curve. I had no performance expectations for the first season, it was all about learning,” he said. “Honestly, it went better than I could have ever expected. We were competitive every time we rolled up to the start line.”
The season highlight came late, with a silver Christmas tree to cap off what Paton calls one of the most memorable years of his life.
“To finish the season that way was incredible, especially considering some of our crew had never even seen a nitro car before we started licensing.”
Heading into the Australia Day weekend, the focus is on maintaining momentum while continuing to learn the new car.
“We want to start where we left off last season,” Paton said. “It’s a new car, so there can be a few teething issues, but the goal is to sort that out in qualifying and be in the A-Final by the end of the weekend.”
Paton was quick to acknowledge the people and partners behind the program.
“Huge thanks to the Aeroflow Funny Car workshop. Getting this car together in that timeframe was a massive effort,” he said. “There were moments we weren’t sure it would make the first round, but it’s ready and it looks incredible.”
He also paid tribute to the team’s supporters.
“None of this is possible without our sponsors: Paton Diesel Services, X-Pro by Aeroflow, Rocket Industries and Bang Shift.”
Looking ahead to the weekend, Paton is excited by the depth of competition and the return of familiar faces.
“It’s great to see Adam Murrihy back on track and I’d love to line up beside him at some point. The more of these cars we can get racing, the better it is for everyone.”
Paton closed by thanking the people who made the opportunity possible.
“I’d like to thank Graeme, Wendy and Morice for trusting me with this machine. It’s honestly a bucket list item I never thought would happen.”
The Aeroflow Nitro Funny Cars team will debut the new PDS Camry this Australia Day weekend at Willowbank Raceway.
