New series shadows Can-Am

A new one-make series devised to rekindle the spirit of the original Can-Am championship is being launched for next season in the US.

The Unlimited Racing Championship’s NuArt racer takes its styling from a number of Can-Am contenders from the no-rules period of 1966-74. It incorporates a number of cues to create what series founder Richard Nauert describes as “the aura of a Can-Am car”.

“Our aim has been to create a generic CanAm car to remind people of just how great the series was,” said Nauert. “People see this car and start grinning. Everyone loves the original Can-Am, which is why I believe the URC can be a success.

“We have tried to bring the Can-Am concept up to date. We’ve put tremendous effort into the car in terms of safety, ease of maintenance and driveability.”

The NuArt Can-Am car is powered by a Chevrolet-based big-block V8 that pushes out in excess of 700bhp. It is fuel injected and incorporates traction control.

Nauert, a motor sport and aerospace subcontractor, is already building its 10th car. The price is $485,000 (£300,000) ready to go.

Four events on the American Le Mans Series support bill are planned for 2012. Nauert said they would be at “traditional Can-Am circuits” such as Road America and Laguna Seca.