Every professional knows how imperative their tools are. Not only do they make completing the job possible but, often they have a direct influence on the quality, consistency, and quantity of the final product. For a racer, along with fire suit, helmet, and gloves, this list also includes a race car.

The Lowes car would have to be synonymous with Jimmie Johnson's career but covering him was not part of my assignment back then. When Lowes pulled their sponsorship I'm sure finding a company to brand the car of a seven-time champion wasn't a problem. Along came Ally. As much as I liked the blue and white livery of Lowes (with the occasional black or gray Kobalt tools variety) the rich purples and violets mixed with the bright white and yellow were a nice change.