Motor Racing Digest

Motor Racing Digest Photo: Anne-Marie Rhodes

NASCAR made an announcement moments ago in the media center at Daytona International Speedway that they will be partnering with McLaren Electronic Systems and Freescale Semiconductor.  The partnership is to develop and integrate fuel injection systems into the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, shooting for the 2012 season.

The plan is to test the technology in 2011.  Here is how NASCAR announced it will work:  “Freescale will provide the processors for McLaren’s engine control units (ECUs) that will be used to manage the fuel and ignition systems in the engines for all NASCAR Sprint Cup Series cars, replacing carburetors which have been used in the series since its inception in 1949.”

At each event NASCAR will have special electronic tools to make sure the legality of all ECUs.

“This move gives us an additional opportunity to incorporate the best technology in our race cars that will enhance the sport in a variety of ways,” said Robin Pemberton, NASCAR vice president of competition. “Selecting these two industry leaders reflects our commitment to this new technology which our manufacturers and teams have embraced. This is a positive step that will provide greater fuel efficiency and a greener footprint while maintaining the same great competition we have seen on the race track.”