Former Champ Car constructor Lola says it has made its pitch for the new generation Indy car to the Indy Racing League board and reckons it satisfies the board's list of requirements for the IndyCar Series' future.
Lola is up against existing Indy car supplier Dallara, fellow ex-Champ Car builder Swift, and the new Delta Wing group in the race to produce the 2012 Indy car chassis. A statement from the Huntingdon, UK company said its car would offer a choice of two body styles.
"At the heart of Lola's presentation to the IRL Board was a carefully considered modern dual body style approach," said the Lola statement. "This concept will provide two ready-to-race, aero-performance balanced Indy cars that could compete even safer side by side and very close behind one another on all circuits. This would provide a unique focus for drivers, teams and fans alike without technical compromise or advantage and, in addition, would accommodate a dual engine supply situation if required.
"The proposed Lola Indy car for 2012 focuses on several key areas. These are safety, efficiency, engine adaptability, weight reduction (proposed 1,380lbs vs. current 1,540lbs), pleasing aesthetics with good sponsor exposure and a concentrated evaluation on significantly improving overtaking."
Lola added that it had decided against a radical approach for its final Indy car proposal.
"As part of the rigorous technical studies by Lola engineers, an entire range of futuristic concept cars were explored," it said. "While these proved technically interesting and on the wish list of the special projects team, some of these options will be deferred, but retained, as a next-iteration option."
Lola boss Martin Birrane hopes the company's strong U.S. racing heritage will work in its favor.
"Lola's history in U.S. racing stretches back to 1965 and includes three Indy 500 wins, Can-Am, sports car and Champ Car title successes," he said. "It is upon this framework of heritage combined today with Lola's state-of-the-art technical capabilities that ensures the company continues to be perfectly positioned to enter a new era and add another chapter to this already fascinating and inspiring partnership."
Dallara issued the first images of its new concept proposal last Friday, while Delta Wing's design – which is backed by a group of leading IndyCar team owners – is due to be unveiled later this week.