Andretti Autosport switches to Chevrolet engines for 2012 IndyCar Series

Michael Andretti's team is the second high-profile signing for returnee Chevrolet, alongside Penske. KV Racing Technology has also been tipped for Chevrolet engines.

Honda was instrumental in the Andretti squad's initial move from Champ Car to what was then the Indy Racing League in 2003, and had powered predecessor squad Team Green in Champ Car since 1997.

But Andretti also had a long relationship with Chevrolet, having used its engines when he won the CART Indycar title in 1991.

"I am so excited to work with Chevy once again," said Andretti. "We won 15 races and a championship with Chevy in just three years. The 1991 season was magical.

"Now, Andretti Autosport and our sponsors have the opportunity to win again with Chevrolet. This will prove to be a tremendous association. Chevrolet is committed to motorsports and they are proven winners."

Jim Campbell, Chevrolet's vice president of performance vehicles and motorsports, was also delighted to renew the firm's connection with the Andretti family, with Michael's father Mario having also used Chevy engines in the 1980s.

"Michael and his family have won many races for Chevrolet and we intend to continue winning with our new partnership," Campbell said.

"We are anxious to have Andretti Autosport begin testing the 2012 engine in the near future."

Andretti also thanked Honda for its support of his team in recent years.

"All of us want to thank Honda for many good years together, including 39 wins, two wins at the Indy 500, and for working with us to return street racing back to IndyCar in St Petersburg and then again in Toronto," said Andretti.

"Honda is largely responsible for providing a platform for multiple manufacturer competition to return and we are grateful for their contributions to the sport we love."

Andretti Autosport currently runs four cars in the IndyCar Series for Marco Andretti, Ryan Hunter-Reay, Mike Conway and Danica Patrick, although the latter will leave for NASCAR at the end of 2011.