Ed Carpenter Returns for Indy 500 with SlimFast

Ed Carpenter will make a one-off appearance at the 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500, marking his 23rd attempt at the famed Brickyard classic. The ECR CEO, co-owner, and veteran driver will pilot the #33 Chevrolet, now emblazoned in SlimFast’s iconic red livery, unveiled against the backdrop of Monument Circle in downtown Indianapolis on Wednesday morning.

Carpenter’s entry also features AES Indiana, the city’s primary retail electricity provider, highlighting a distinctly Hoosier partnership. Beyond corporate backing, the car will support local charitable initiatives, including HATCH and the Riley Children’s Foundation, reinforcing ECR’s longstanding commitment to community causes.

“We’re proud to share Ed Carpenter’s #33 SlimFast® entry for this year’s Indianapolis 500, a race that means so much to our team and our hometown,” said Ted Gelov, ECR owner and Heartland Chairman and CEO. “SlimFast® joins Splenda® and Java House® on our cars this May, providing an exciting showcase of our iconic brands on the biggest stage in racing.”

SlimFast, recently acquired by Heartland Food Products Group and headquartered in Carmel, Indiana, plans a brand relaunch later this year with improved formulas and modernised packaging. AES Indiana serves over 500,000 residential, commercial, and industrial customers across central Indiana, and its partnership underlines a local focus for the #33 entry.

“Supporting Ed in his hometown race reflects who we are—local, invested, and proud to help power moments that matter to this city,” said Brandi Davis-Handy, President of AES Indiana.

Charitable partnerships further strengthen the Hoosier connection. HATCH, headquartered in Carmel, will serve as ECR’s Official Hunger-Relief Partner, connecting protein producers and farmers to food-insecure families through food banks. In 2025, HATCH delivered over 102 million protein-rich meals across 43 states in collaboration with 121 food banks. ECR will also continue its support of the Riley Children’s Foundation, Indiana’s leading children’s health organisation.

Carpenter, 45, made his first Indy 500 start in 2004 and has secured three poles (2013, 2014, 2018), becoming only the 10th driver to achieve three or more poles in the event’s history. “There is always so much motivation to win the Indianapolis 500, both for myself and for ECR as a whole,” Carpenter said. “It means even more when you represent Indiana brands and contribute to our community while racing in front of our fans at home.”

Carpenter’s Indy 500 Highlights

Carpenter’s 2026 entry promises a blend of hometown pride, charitable impact, and a relentless pursuit of victory at Indianapolis’ most iconic race.