David Coulthard says that the addition of new manufacturers in the DTM increases the possibility of him staying in the touring car series for the long term.
BMW has already confirmed that it will return to the series in 2012, and several other manufacturers such as Opel and Nissan have been linked to joining the grid. Representatives from the DTM met with several Asian manufacturers following the championship's season finale in Shanghai in November, and it is expected that the 2012 season will kick off with at least four manufacturers competing.
Coulthard, who finished the season with his first points score in Shanghai, is expected to stay in the DTM for next year. The Formula 1 veteran admitted that he is looking toward 2012 already.
"BMW coming in gives me a desire to stay in 2012," said the Scot. "Also, there will be new cars then as well. That creates a level playing field for someone like me who has only just come in.
"I'd like to be around to experience the new formula, but if it doesn't happen, I won't shed any tears."