DeltaWing disappointed by IRL choice

An IRL panel agreed a deal with Dallara to provide the series' new chassis from the 2012 onwards, rejecting proposals from DeltaWing, Lola, BAT and Swift.

"We wish to congratulate the ICONIC Committee and the IndyCar Series on their decision regarding the 2012 chassis strategy," said a statement from DeltaWing. "However, we are extremely disappointed that they have decided to pursue a strategy that does not include the DeltaWing.

"The concept was designed to provide a relevant solution to the environmental, economic and social realties that must be addressed by all premier status racing series. We proposed a revolutionary solution that met or exceeded all of the IndyCar Series criteria for the new car, resulting in a chassis with half the weight, half the drag, half the cost, half the horsepower and half the fuel consumption of the existing IndyCar.

"This was accomplished with a design that would provide more on-track excitement and performance on every circuit where the IndyCar Series competes and the potential for 235mph or faster laps at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway."

The car was by far the most radical of the proposals, designed by Chip Ganassi Racing's Ben Bowlby, who was formerly Lola's chief designer.

DeltaWing says it is considering its options for future motorsport involvement.

"Our many partners and supporters have invested significant time, financial resources and effort into DeltaWing. We want to thank them for their commitment, courage and vision for the future. We have initiated the process of reviewing options for DeltaWing which we will present to our investors, industrial partners and governmental advisors. We will announce our plans for the DeltaWing in the near future."