Superleague Formula – the European-based open-wheel series featuring national teams named for pro soccer squads, is considering adopting a new chassis in time for the 2013 season. The new car would replace the current Panoz DP-09 spec chassis (LEFT), which is based on the DP-01 originally designed for the now-defunct Champ Car World Series.
The Panoz, built by Elan Motorsport Technologies, has been in service in Superleague since the series' inaugural 2008 season, and the self-styled "nations cup" series feels the time is right to begin evaluating its next generation of racecar. The current 750hp, 4.2-liter V12 engine built by MCT is expected to be retained.
Lola Cars appears to be the most likely supplier of the new car, following a recent visit to the Lola factory by series officials to look at its "World Senior Car," which would be Lola's first open-wheel project since an F3 car in 2003. The British company proposed a design for the new 2012 IndyCar, but the IndyCar Series opted to stick with current supplier Dallara. It also penned an F1 design, but its bid for one of the expansion team slots for the 2010 World Championship was turned down.
“Lola Group has an incredible pedigree in international motorsport which made them the ideal starting point in Superleague Formula's search for a new car," said Steve Farrell, Superleague Formula technical director. "The championship has always been different from the mainstream. We would be looking for something exciting and distinctive, but most importantly driver-friendly while maintaining a tight control on parts and running costs."
Robin Brundle, Lola's managing director, added that he was confident his company's new design would be Superleague's best option.
"Lola has considerable experience in delivering high performance racing cars and after sales services for international one make-series such as Superleague Formula," he said. "SF's criteria fit well with Lola's capabilities and while our initial discussions remain at an embryonic stage, the championship is satisfied that our World Senior Car ticks all the relevant boxes. We wish Robin Webb and his team every success delivering their vision for the series.”