LIVONIA, Mich., Oct. 22 -- General Motors (GM) Racing has
confirmed that McLaren Performance Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: MCLN - news) will
serve as its engine development partner for the all-new 2002 Cadillac
A revised induction
system and redesigned cylinder heads will complement the 180-degree crankshaft
and upgraded engine management system that were introduced in 2001.
According to Ed Keating, GM Racing project engineer, ``Working with our
development partner, McLaren Performance Technologies, we have produced an
extremely reliable engine package.
With the enhancements that will be
introduced next year, we anticipate improvements in outright speed while
maintaining the reliability and fuel efficiency that are absolutely essential
in endurance racing.''
For 2002, the proven Northstar LMP engine will be paired with a new
sequential transmission.
This gearbox permits gear changes with paddles
mounted on the steering wheel.
``We are extremely proud that our development partnership with GM Racing
continues to accelerate -- particularly, as Cadillac prepares to celebrate its
centennial in 2002,'' said Steven Rossi, president and chief executive officer,
McLaren Performance Technologies.
Team Cadillac will compete in the 24 Hours of LeMans for the third
consecutive year and will enter five American LeMans Series (ALMS) races in
North America next season.
The 2002 Cadillac LMP racer will make its
competition debut on March 16, 2002 at the 12-hour race in Sebring, Florida