Pronunciation: [pˈe͡ɪs kˈɑː] (IPA) 
A pace car is a vehicle often used in sports events to lead other cars at a steady speed. The spelling of this word is 'peɪs kɑːr'. The 'a' in 'pace' is pronounced as the long vowel sound /eɪ/. The 'c' in 'car' is pronounced as the voiceless velar stop /k/. The letter 'e' at the end of 'pace' is silent. When pronounced correctly, the two syllables in 'pace car' are stressed equally.
A pace car refers to a specially designated vehicle in motorsports events that leads the field of participants at a controlled pace during caution periods or at the start of a race. It plays a crucial role in maintaining order and safety during these situations. Typically, the pace car is driven by an experienced driver who is in constant communication with race officials. Its primary purpose is to control the speed of the competitors, ensuring that they maintain a safe distance from each other and preventing any reckless maneuvers.
A pace car is easily distinguishable from the rest of the field, often adorned with striking graphics or unique paintwork that stands out from the participating vehicles. It is equipped with powerful lights and communication systems, allowing race officials to effectively convey important information such as caution periods, track conditions, or other necessary instructions to the competitors.
In races where a rolling start is used, the pace car takes the lead position during the warm-up laps prior to the start of the race. Upon the start signal, the pace car sets the initial speed and leads the competitors as they begin the race. Similarly, during caution periods caused by accidents, debris on the track, or adverse weather conditions, the pace car enters the track, bringing the field behind it, and controls the speed until the track is deemed safe for competition to resume.
Overall, a pace car acts as a vital instrument in race control, ensuring safety, order, and fair competition in motorsports events.
The word pace car originates from the noun pace, which has Latin roots. In Latin, paces meant footsteps or steps, which later evolved into pace in English. The term pace car emerged in the early 20th century in the context of motor racing. It refers to a car that sets the speed during the warm-up laps before a race officially starts. The pace car's purpose is to ensure that all vehicles are in the correct order and to help maintain a consistent speed until the race begins. Pace in this context signifies the speed set by the leading car to establish the rhythm for others to follow, hence the term pace car.
