ÉLAN TECHNOLOGIES RELEASES DP02 UPDATE

Élan Technologies, the multi-faceted race car constructor, is announcing a series of updates to its DP02 model that serves as the chassis for the Lites 1 class of the Cooper Tires Prototype Lites Championship Powered by Mazda.The improvements are now available for customers well in advance of the 2012 season.

“In an ongoing effort to better understand our customers’ needs and to respond to feedback received, Élan is pleased to introduce a number of new and updated components,” said Steve Makin, General Manager of Élan Technologies.

Among the key updates are a new billet aluminum brake pedal with improved balance bar, a split engine cover to help facilitate track-side access to the engine compartment and access panels to the transaxle by way of the monocoque flooring.

The middle component also allows teams to replace just one side of the engine cover in case of damage instead of the complete panel.

In addition, Élan also is introducing a conversion by which all Lites 1 chassis can house the new Mazda MZR 2.0-liter engine.

“This conversion was developed to minimize cost to teams while also addressing a few problem areas with the previous engine installation,” Makin said. “We believe teams will be pleased with the reasonable cost and minimum number of new parts required.”

The Élan DP02 chassis features a carbon-fiber monocoque chassis, a six-speed sequential gearbox and a full aerodynamic package. For 2012, the DP02 will be powered by the 2.0-liter, four-cylinder Mazda MZR engine, sealed by Élan Power Products.

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