"We're looking forward with great anticipation to entering the American Le Mans Series," said Robert Clarke, president of Honda Performance Development. "In addition to returning Acura to the international racing stage against other innovative automotive manufacturers, it allows us to continue to grow HPD into a world-class performance company."
Testing of the Acura-powered prototypes will begin this summer. Drivers and teams will be announced in the near future.
Acura has a storied history in sports car racing, particularly with the International Motor Sports Association [IMSA]. Acura-supported teams won three consecutive Camel Lights championships from 1991-93 including a class victory at Sebring in 1993.
"This is a landmark project in numerous ways," Atherton continued. "One of the most significant effects of Acura's new racing programme is the reintroduction of an American-made engine back into our prototype categories. When Dr. Don Panoz founded the American Le Mans Series, he wanted to bring the spirit and cache of Le Mans to North America but also feature American-made content. Thanks to Acura and Honda Performance Development, another portion of his vision has been realised.
"As mentioned, Acura (Honda) has a proven track record of getting involved with racing series on all fronts," Atherton concluded. "They are not simply going to enter some cars and hope for the best. I think we will see Acura being actively involved in all aspects of the American Le Mans Series, on and off the track."
