Speaking at this afternoon's announcement by Lotus Cars of its engine and aero kit program for the 2012 IZOD IndyCar Series, IndyCar CEO Randy Bernhard (LEFT) said that the recent announcements by Lotus and Chevrolet meant that the category was delivering on its promise to fans to move away from a single car/engine formula.
"Last March, one thing we learned really quick was that the fans wanted to see the 'spec' series go away," said Bernhard, referring ton the time when he took the reins of the series from its former boss Tony George. "That was the number one thing they said.
"Lotus is a renowned name in racing, with a long association with some of the greatest names of motorsports," he added in a statement. "We're honored Lotus has chosen to serve as an engine manufacturer for the first time with us.
"We are excited about the future of Indy Car racing with the addition of Chevrolet and Lotus as well as the continued involvement of our longtime engine supplier Honda. The IZOD IndyCar Series has the fastest, most versatile cars and drivers in the world, and now we have engine competition to provide even more excitement for our fans."
Group Lotus, which has been linked to a Formula 1 effort next year through a deal with Renault F1 team shareholder Genii Capital, has significantly expanded its motorsport portfolio in recent months, announcing future Le Mans LMP2 and GT programs and linking up with ultra-successful single-seater squad ART in GP2 and GP3. The company is attempting to prevent Tony Fernandes' 1 Malaysia organization, which licensed the use of the "Lotus Racing" name for its first F1 season this year, from racing under that name again next season.