Honda Racing–Formula Lites Selects Honda Power

• Engine paired with Crawford FL15 carbon composite chassis
• Next step in Honda development ladder from karting and Formula F

Honda Performance Development is pleased that it has been selected to supply Honda’s production 2.4-liter, four-cylinder Honda K24 engine to power the new Formula Lites chassis being produced by Crawford Composites for a new racing series promoted by High Performance Group. 

Formula Lites is a new professional racing series, headed by motorsports veteran and HPG principals Dennis McCormack and Ryan Arciero, and sanctioned by SCCA Pro Racing.  Scheduled to launch at select events in 2014, with a full schedule of events planned for 2015, the series is aimed at developing young, professional drivers.

“We couldn’t be more impressed with this Formula Lites car and their plans for the series,” said Jeff Barrow, HPD manager, commercial motorsports.  “In working with HPG and Crawford Composites, it was their goal to keep costs down and reliability up.  I’m happy to say that our production Honda K24 engine will meet their requirements for cost and reliability, and at the same time provide great power to this fantastic looking car.  I would expect that many of our current Honda Racing Line participants would love to get behind the wheel of one!”

Created by a design team led by Crawford Composite’s Andy Scriven at the company’s Denver, N.C. headquarters, the Formula Lites carbon composite chassis is built to current FIA Formula 3 technical regulations, including state-of-the-art electronics and an in-house designed paddleshift transmission system. 

“Crawford Composites is absolutely delighted to have one of our long-standing partners, Honda Performance Development, providing the engines for the new Crawford FL15,” said Max Crawford, president of Crawford Composites.  “HPD produces some of the top engines in motorsports, and their long-standing commitment to auto racing has been tremendous.  Together, the Crawford FL15 will be exceptionally affordable and, at the same time, a high tech vehicle enabling young drivers to continue to elevate their racing skills in the new Formula Lites series.”

Series organizer High Performance Group is headed by racing veteran Dennis McCormack, who began his motorsports career in 1968.  Working his way up through the ranks as a mechanic, crew chief, team manager and eventually an Indy car team owner with the formation of McCormack Motorsports. 

“We are pleased to announce HPD as the official engine supplier to the Formula Lites series,” said Dennis McCormack.  “HPD is a leader in motorsports development and has a history of promoting grass roots racing.  Their commitment to Formula Lites will give drivers an opportunity to take the next step in professional racing.”