The V8 Supercar Series is about to begin the bidding process for its Car of the Future (CoF) project.
The series will accept bids for various control components for the new-generation car, which will be introduced in 2012.
"There is a genuine interest from the motorsport industry about the Car of the Future project and, as we are publishing the tenders online, we expect to reach a larger audience both nationally and internationally than in the past; so it would be logical to think we will receive a fair few submissions," said V8 Supercars Australia Motorsport General Manager Adam Perry.
"We look forward to finalising the suppliers for these vehicles so we can begin to fit out the two Car of the Future prototypes, which will be ready for these components towards the end of this year. It is also a good opportunity to test the market and see what is out there in terms of the latest technology, especially when it comes to the ever-evolving electronics and electrics packages.
"All these components are fundamental to the Car of the Future project. Once we secure these suppliers, the next stage is to produce the required parts before fitting them to the two Car of the Future prototypes. And once the prototypes have been complete, the final sign-off will occur on-track with a test program of up to 3000km."
The CoF is intended to help reduce costs as well as opening the door for new manufacturers to join Ford and Holden in the category. The car will have a control floor plan and a range of common components, although body kits must still "substantially resemble" their road-going equivalents, and engines will continue to be restricted to naturally-aspirated V8s.
There will also be a number of changes made to upgrade safety, including an overhaul of the drivers' seat and seating position, relocation of the fuel tank from the trunk to just ahead of the rear axle, and the use of polycarbonate windshields instead of glass.