V8 Supercars follows F1 double-points rule for Melbourne event

The move is part of a wider shake-up of the support event, which will be comprised of three qualifying races and a double-points finale.

A rolling points system will determine the grid for each race, while double-file rolling starts will be used for each of the four races, with drivers also lining up side-by-side for any restarts.

An overall winner of the non-championship event will be crowned based on their totals across the first three races and the double-points finale, which will run at 1315 local time on Sunday.

V8 Supercars CEO James Warburton said the changes has been made to boost the spectacle of the championship's annual F1 support race.

"This unique format for the 2014 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix is something fans have never seen before," he said.

"Double-file rolling starts and resumptions after safety cars and, double points in the final race really will raise the stakes.

"The Australian Grand Prix is a magnificent event, the atmosphere is electric and the combination of the world's best open wheelers and touring cars on the same track is simply spectacular."

Australian Grand Prix Corporation CEO, Andrew Westacott, is sure the new race format will provide V8 fans with a unique spectacle.

"There is plenty to look forward to for V8 Supercars fans at this year's event. Not only do we have a brand new format, but Volvo has joined existing manufacturers Holden, Ford, Nissan and Mercedes for what is sure to be a gripping season-long battle," Westacott said.

"We are always working to refresh the entertainment offering and the new V8 Supercars race format is a great example of this in action, I'm sure we're going to see some impressive performances across the event."