The Perth local will step into the #7 Isuzu D-Max in place of Cameron Crick as the young star continues to focus on his health.
Long regarded as one of the most successful drivers from the original V8 Utes series, Johnson won titles in 2007 and 2010.
“These newer V8 SuperUtes definitely seem to be getting back to the spectacle the fans can really get behind,” said Johnson.
“I’ll just have to remember how to change gears with a clutch and gear stick again though!
“I wasn’t really sure if I ever wanted to steer the new generation Ute, but I’ve been excited and honoured to be given the opportunity to race in front of a home crowd.
“I spent the past weekend getting accustomed to the D-Max at Queensland Raceway and settled in great. Big shoes to fill in Perth though and I hope Cricky is back soon.”
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Since leaving the V8 Utes category at the end of 2011, Johnson has remained successful in production car racing, winning seven consecutive WA state Saloon Car championships – in addition to two in 2006 and ’07.
Johnson also won three Australian Saloon Car titles in 2016, ’19, and ’22.
The veteran noted his main challenge would be adapting to the nature of the current generation SuperUtes, a much heavier race car than what he is accustomed to.
“It’s probably getting used to the weight of the V8 SuperUtes that will be the biggest relearning curve,” he added.
“At over 1,900 kilograms, stopping, turning and accelerating can be tricky on the edge.
“The tyre degradation can be an issue for many interstate drivers too at Wanneroo Raceway, so keeping the tyres in good condition is key to consistent laps.”
Johnson finished fourth in the standings in his final V8 Utes season in 2011, while David Sieders was second.
Sieders, alongside Adam Marjoram, remain the only drivers in the current SuperUtes field to have raced against the West Aussie in utes.
“It’s exciting to be back and compare myself to the new and old ute drivers. Expectations are always high, so hopefully we have some luck and meet them for the EFS Racing team,” Johnson said.
Round 3 of the Tyrepower V8 SuperUte Series will be held at the Perth Super440 on July 31-August 2.
The 2024 series winner Marjoram leads the standings by 22 points over Cody Brewczynski.
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