Chevy submit GM-Cosworth engine to IRL.

After several, largely secret test sessions with Panther Racing and some of the other currently underpowered Chevrolet IRL teams, the struggling manufacturer has finally submitted an official request to the IRL to allow them to introduce a new unit that will hopefully allow them to compete with Toyota and Honda.

The new engine that has been submitted by GM Racing is designated the Gen IV Chevy Indy V8 and is the result of GM's work with engine tuners Cosworth.

"After exploring numerous options, GM Racing has finalized plans to introduce a new Chevrolet engine in the Indy Racing League IndyCar Series," said Joe Negri, GM Racing IRL program manager. "We have formally requested IRL officials to approve the Gen IV Chevy Indy V8 for competition in 2003. Pending IRL approval, GM Racing will make the Gen IV Chevy Indy V8 available to Chevrolet teams in accordance with IRL regulations."

Said Brian Barnhart, Indy Racing League senior vice president of racing operations: "At this time we are reviewing GM's request to change engines as well as their process for distributing the new engine packages to its teams. We anticipate a quick response back to GM Racing as they have kept us abreast of their activities throughout the process."

The best finish this season by a Chevrolet-powered driver is fourth by double defending series champion Sam Hornish Jr. in the SunTrust Indy Challenge on June 28th at Richmond International Raceway. Hornish also has recorded the best start for the engine this year, third at Homestead-Miami Speedway and Richmond.