Liam Lawson is returning to New Zealand over the European break, with demonstration runs planned at three tracks in Rodin’s FZED single-seater.
Lawson has been competing in Europe, recently testing a Formula 1 car for AlphaTauri, after competing in the 2021 Formula 2 and DTM seasons.
The Kiwi finished his debut Formula 2 season ninth in the championship with a race win and three podium finishes, he also finished the DTM season second with three race wins and a number of podiums.
Rodin Cars were one of Lawson’s major sponsors through the 2021 season and has recently confirmed they will continue as a sponsor in the 2022 Formula 2 championship.
The demonstration runs are planned for Highlands Motorsport Park January 15-16, Ruapuna Raceway the following weekend, and Hampton Downs Motorsport Park for the New Zealand Grand Prix February 11-13.
“I got to take the FZED around Donington, overseas, and properly open it up there. To be able to do the same thing at home and show everybody how cool the car is, is going to be something quite special,” Lawson said.
Lawson has previously driven the FZED at the Rodin test track near Mt Lyford, Lawson saying that he was surprised how easy it was to drive.
“It was the fastest car I’d driven up to that point [of his career], and to be honest the only thing I’ve driven faster since then is Formula 1.
“It’s an extremely quick car. It reminds me very much of the 2011-2012 era of Formula 1, right before they went to the hybrid cars and stepped up the downforce. I’d say it’s quite comparable to 10 years ago in Formula 1.
“The first time I drove it I was surprised by how easy it was to drive, whether you’re driving on the absolute limit or not, it’s not hard to drive.”
The demonstration runs will coincide with the start of the new Super GT series which is sponsored by Rodin Cars.
The upcoming appearances will be the first in New Zealand for the car since a run at Ruapuna a few years ago which saw Greg Murphy set an unofficial lap record at the circuit.
“We are looking forward to being able to demonstrate just how fast the Rodin FZED really is, in front of a New Zealand crowd. Having Liam behind the wheel is a perfect match; a New Zealand racer behind the wheel of a New Zealand supercar. He is quick and so is the car. It should be an exciting experience for everyone,” said Rodin Cars founder David Dicker
The FZED sports a Cosworth GPV8, with 675hp, and is expected to challenge the current fastest lap times when it hits the track over summer.
As well as seeing Lawson out on track in the FZED, fans will also have the opportunity to see him at signing sessions at each track.