The Supercars championship has unveiled its first car for the new Gen3 era, as well as further details about the regulations that will surround the shift in machinery.
As has been rumoured, the series has unveiled a new Chevrolet Camaro Supercar. Designed by long-time Holden Motorsport artist Peter Hughes, the car showcases a drastic step towards cars that look much closer to their production-car roots while also acknowledging the continual relationship General Motors will have with the series via its new moniker, General Motors Specialty Vehicles.
The series boasts that aero figures are set to drop by 50 per cent over the current Car of the Future generation vehicles, while also retaining plenty of production parts. According to Supercars, the doors, roof, bonnet, and windows will retain their key dimensions — a move not seen since the arrival of Project Blueprint in 2003.
Read more: Sleek Gen3 Ford Mustang Supercar unveiled, brand indicates ongoing support
The move follows confirmation that the series would be dropping the requirement for all cars to fit over an identical central structure — a regulative requirement that resulted in the controversial heavy modification of Ford’s Mustang silhouette.
The news creates an interesting situation where GM-backed teams will race a car that is unavailable to buyers. HSV produced its last Camaro for the Australasian market last year, and the nameplate is currently on the rocks in terms of a next-gen production model.
“We are thrilled to welcome a brand new race car design to the track in 2022,” Supercars CEO Sean Seamer said. “The cars will retain their signature V8 engine format to ensure they’re fast and loud, but will be ‘hybrid ready’ and more closely resemble the road cars they are based on.
“These are incredible looking race cars that give a nod to the Supercar of the past, with as much attention given to the design and appearance of the cars as the new technologies. The Gen3 project will support the longevity of Supercars by increasing relevance to our fans and partners, reducing operating costs, and making the racing even fiercer.
“The cars will have a lot less downforce than the current car, making the racing more spectacular and putting more reliance on driver skill.”
“It is fantastic GM is able to continue its long and proud involvement in Australasia’s premier motorsport category,” added Kristian Aquilina, Interim Chairman and Managing Director of General Motors Australia and New Zealand.
“The Camaro ZL1 Supercar will undoubtedly attract passion and excitement, as well as showcase the Chevy bowtie that is integral to our new GM Specialty Vehicles business in Australia and New Zealand.
“We loved every minute of our 51-year involvement through Holden. There will never be another Holden, but we now welcome Camaro to the stage and hopefully a whole new generation of fans with it.”
The new cars are slated to debut in 2022, having been delayed a year due to the Covid-19 pandemic and ongoing discussions between teams and manufacturers.