KV Racing Technology – Lotus drivers, Tony Kanaan, Takuma Sato and E. J. Viso head to this weekend's Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, April 15-17, in Long Beach, California with an eye toward moving up in the IZOD IndyCar Series championship standings.

After the first two races of the 2011 season KVRT – Lotus has two drivers in the top-eight in the standings and a third just outside the top-10. Kanaan, No. 82 GEICO – KV Racing Technology – Lotus, is currently third in the championship race with 63 points just 31 out of first place and 24 out of second. Sato, No. 5 KV Racing Technology – Lotus, sits eighth in the standings with 44 points, but is just 10 points out of fifth place. Meanwhile, E. J. Viso, No. 59 PDVSA – KV Racing Technology – Lotus, currently 24th in the standings, is just 18 points out 10th place.

Kanaan has started the season strong. After signing with KVRT – Lotus just six days before the season opener he has put together two outstanding races. The talented Brazilian and 2004 IndyCar Series Champion finished third in the season opener at St. Petersburg then had a spectacular performance in the second event improving 18 positions to finish sixth at Barber Motorsports Park. Kanaan will be making his eighth appearance on 1.968-mile, 11-turn Long Beach temporary street circuit this weekend. In seven previous races he has qualified in the top-six a total of four times including capturing his first career U. S. based open-wheel pole in 1999. He has finished in the top-seven on four occasions with a best showing of third in 2009 (placed fifth twice, last year and in his TGPLB debut in 1998).

"It's always good to go back to Long Beach, a track that I always liked since the CART days," Kanaan said. "It's actually one of my favorite races of the year. In 2010, I had a Top-five result there and hopefully we can have another strong result to keep our momentum going before we get to Brazil."

Sato has also been impressive in the opening two events of the season. The Japanese star finished a career-high fifth to start his second IndyCar season, then qualified a team-high 11th at Barber where he was running securely in the top-10 before a couple of on-track incidents and a refueling problem dropped him to 16th. Based on his performance on the streets of St. Petersburg, Sato is primed for another strong weekend here in Long Beach where he will be making his second start.

Commenting on this weekend's race Sato said, "Long Beach has a great history and atmosphere so hopefully we will have a successful weekend here. The track is a slippery and bumpy street course and because of the various different corner characteristics it's quite tricky to get the car balance right here. Last year we struggled getting up to speed in qualifying but at St Pete recently we found some useful set-up lessons that could help us here. My KV Technology-Lotus team is working well together this year and in the first two races so far we have always been able to improve performance over the course of the weekend, so I hope this pattern continues at Long Beach."

Viso has had two eventful weekends to open the season. He suffered a puncture in the season opener when he ran over some debris and then was the victim of an on-track incident at Barber. Never-the-less, the young and determined Venezuelan is just one good performance away from getting himself back into the thick of things and Long Beach may be just the place for him to do it. Viso's career best qualifying effort came here at Long Beach in 2009 when he started fourth and he has a solid ninth place finish to his credit in three previous starts.

"Long Beach is definitely one of my favorite venues and tracks, there is something special about this place," Viso said. "It always attracts a huge crowd and it's a beautiful city with the ocean and downtown area. In 2009, I started on the second row, so I hope this year we can do even better. I am sure with the good weekend we had at St. Petersburg a few weeks ago, we can translate some of those setup advances we made to this race, where the actual characteristics of the setups are similar. This weekend is definitely one I am looking forward to."

Vasser to be inducted into Long Beach Motorsports Walk of Fame:

The City of Long Beach and the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach will honor KVRT – Lotus co-owner Jimmy Vasser by inducting him into the Long Beach Motorsports Walk of Fame. The ceremony will take place on Thursday, April 14, at 11:00 a.m. at the Long Beach Motorsports Walk of Fame on South Pine Avenue in front of the Convention Center. The public is invited. Vasser won the TLBGP in 1996 in route to the championship. He took another checker flag in Long Beach last year when he won the Pro category of the 2010 Toyota Pro/Celebrity Race. Vasser's last open-wheel start came at Long Beach on April 20, 2008.

KV Racing Technology – Lotus Long Beach Grand Prix history:

KVRT – Lotus has made 17 starts at Long Beach between 2003 and 2010. They have qualified in the top-10 five times with a best starting position of fourth by Will Power in 2008. They have finished in the top-10 eight times with two top-five showings including a win, again by Power in 2008. Also in 2008, in the Champ Car World Series finale, KVRT placed three cars in the top-10 with Power winning, Oriol Servia finishing fifth and Vasser, in his last open-wheel race placing 10th.

Kanaan looking to extend consecutive race streak:

Kanaan will be attempting to qualify for his 134th consecutive IndyCar race this weekend extending his streak as the active driver with the most consecutive starts (Scott Sharp holds the series record with 138 and KVRT – Lotus co-owner Jimmy Vasser is the all-time leader with 211 consecutive starts).

TGPLB television times:

The Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach will be broadcast live on Versus at 3:30 p.m. ET.

Kanaan, behind the wheel of the No. 82 GEICO – KV Racing Technology – Lotus improved 18 positions to finish sixth in a hard fought race on the picturesque and challenging 2.38-mile, 17-turn Barber permanent road course.  Teammate Takuma Sato was also impressive however a couple of on-track incidents and a refueling problem dropped him to 16th.  Meanwhile, E. J. Viso, the third KVRT – Lotus entry, was also the victim of an on-track situation and finished 23rd.

Kanaan started the race 24th on the gird, but gained

10 positions on the first lap.  From that point a

combination of incredible driving, a solid race strategy

designed by KVRT-Lotus General Manager Mark

Johnson and outstanding pit work by the GEICO –

KVRT – Lotus crew combined to produce what a

few days ago seemed an improbable result.

“I want to thank the whole GEICO – KV Racing

Technology – Lotus team,” Kanaan said.  “What a

great job…great pit stops.  I also want to thank Takuma.  He helped me out a lot with his setup.  It is great to have someone who really cares and respects you.  Thanks

to him and his engineer we were able to turn the

situation around and we ended up pretty strong. 

So, I am very pleased.  We are just building it up here,

and we are eventually going to get it.”

Kanaan earned 28 points today and combined with the 35 he picked up with his third place performance in the season opener at St. Petersburg now has a total of 63 placing him third in the championship race.  The talented Brazilian and 2004 IndyCar Series Champion, who made his 133rd consecutive IndyCar start today, the longest streak of any active driver (Scott Sharp holds the series record with 138 and KVRT – Lotus co-owner Jimmy Vasser is the all-time leader with 211 consecutive starts), has now finished sixth and eighth in the two IndyCar races and Barber.

Sato, No. 5 KV Racing Technology - Lotus, was the fastest of the KVRT – Lotus drivers all weekend and seemed a sure bet for a top-10 finish.  The Japanese star and Formula 1 veteran, who is always competitive on permanent road courses, qualified a team-high 11th.  He quickly moved into ninth and hovered around the top-10 for much of the race getting as high as seventh.  However, while fighting for position, Sato had two incidents, the second of which forced him to the pits for a new front wing.  In the latter stages of the contest a refueling situation once again brought him to pit lane.  Despite the setbacks, Sato continued to battle throughout the race and was rewarded with valuable championship points.

Commenting on the race Sato said, “It was a frustrating and disappointing race.  For sure it was also exciting at one point.  I overtook some cars on the track and gained some positions on the restart, so we were looking strong at one stage.  Unfortunately, I had a couple of incidents which damaged my car and forced me to come back to the pits, also at the end of the race we had an issue with the refueling on a pit stop and I had to come back to the pits again.  In the end everything did not work out as we planned, but there were some positive things today, which hopefully we can carry over to next week.

Sato, who is in his second IndyCar season, contested just his 19 IndyCar race.  He scored 14 points today and now has 44 following a fifth place finish at St. Petersburg, placing him eighth in the championship standings.

Viso, No. 59 PDVSA - KV Racing Technology - Lotus, started 18th and was steadily moving through the field.  On lap 40, he was running in 11th place when he was hit by another competitor, spun and hit again ending his day.

“To be honest it’s been a very tough start to the season,” commented Viso.  “It’s amazing, the potential we have as a team, but unfortunately our luck has not been the best.  Today, the race started well.  The car setup was very complete and we were working on a fuel mileage strategy, which we were able to achieve without any issues.  I was able to gain some places on the restarts and make a few passes on track.  However, in corner five I got hit from behind and spun round.  James Hinchcliffe had nowhere to go and caught the rear of my car when I had stopped, which ended my race.  I know that good races are coming hopefully starting next weekend at Long Beach.

Viso, contesting his fourth IndyCar season, second with KVRT - Lotus and first in the Lotus livery, has 24 points after the first two races of the season and is 24th in the standings.      

Next up for KVRT - Lotus is the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, April 15-17, on the streets of Long Beach, California.  The race will be broadcast live on Versus beginning at 3:30 p.m. ET.

Sato, No. 5 KV Racing Technology - Lotus, qualified with a lap of 72.1667 seconds (114.734 mph) on the 2.38-mile, 17-turn Barber permanent road circuit and will start on the inside of row six. Viso, No. 59 PDVSA - KV Racing Technology - Lotus, recorded a lap of 72.6582 seconds (113.958 mph) and will grid on the outside of row nine. Kanaan, No. 82 GEICO – KV Racing Technology – Lotus posted a fast qualifying lap of 72.8892 seconds (113.597 mph) and will line up on the outside of row 12.

Sato has now advanced to round two of road/street course qualifying twice in two attempts this season,

qualifying 11th both times. The Japanese star, who is in his second IZOD IndyCar season, is coming off the

best showing of his 18-race IndyCar career, a fifth at the series opening Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.

Sato will be making his second start here at Barber tomorrow. Last year, he qualified sixth, but unfortunately

suffered a mechanical problem and finished 25th.

“It was a disappointing qualifying,” Sato said. “We tried to improve the car and indeed we were improving, but

looking at the field we didn’t have enough speed. It is a real shame we could not achieve what we wanted. I tried everything I could, but we struggled a lot. We are going to have to work really hard to get everything together for the race tomorrow.”

Viso, contesting his fourth IndyCar season, second with KVRT - Lotus and first in the Lotus livery, is also making his second appearance at Barber. Last year, he started 10th and finished 16th.

Commenting on his weekend so far, the determined young Venezuelan said, “It’s been a tough couple of days for the team, but we have lots of faith that we will have a good race tomorrow. The crew, once again, did a great job preparing the car for the qualifying, but we needed another 1.9 tenths of a second to make it into the second round of qualifying. This is a challenging track with a mix of fast and slow corners and a lot of quick changes in direction so finding the right setup is a compromise. You have to give up some speed in some places to gain it in others.”

Kanaan, who is contesting his 14th season of major U. S. based open–wheel competition and 10th in the IndyCar Series, will be making his 133rd consecutive IndyCar start tomorrow, the longest streak of any active driver (Scott Sharp holds the series record with 138 and KVRT – Lotus co-owner Jimmy Vasser is the all-time leader with 211 consecutive starts). The talented Brazilian and 2004 IndyCar Series Champion, is coming off a third place finish in the season opener at St. Petersburg. He will be competing at Barber for the second time having started and finished eighth here last year in the inaugural race.

“Obviously I am extremely disappointed with the way qualifying went today,” Kanaan said. “However, we reviewed the data and identified a problem which really affected my run. It is something we can fix so everything should be good for tomorrow. We are going to have our work cut out for us starting 24th on this track, but it is a long race and anything can happen.”

In this morning’s practice, which was really a 20-minute warm-up, Kanaan logged the team’s fastest lap with a time of 72.8840 seconds (113.605 mph) putting him 11th on both the session and combined practice reports. Sato was 13th fastest with a lap of 73.0193seconds (113.395 mph), which also put him 13th on the combined report. Viso was 25th in the session at 73.7431seconds (112.282 mph) and 25th on the combined. All three drivers turned their fastest practice laps during this morning’s practice.

Sato, No. 5 KV Racing Technology - Lotus, took team honors with a fast lap of 73.4474 seconds (112.734 mph) on the 2.38-mile, 17-turn Barber permanent road circuit.  Viso, No. 59 PDVSA - KV Racing Technology - Lotus, recorded a lap of 73.7680 seconds (112.244 mph), while Kanaan, No. 82 GEICO – KV Racing Technology – Lotus posted a time of 74.2371 seconds (111.535 mph).  Sato and Viso ran their quick laps during the second of two practices today.  Kanaan recorded his in the first session.

Sato, from Japan, is coming off the best finish of his

18-race IZOD IndyCar Series career, a fifth at the season

opening Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.  The

Formula 1 veteran, who is in his second IndyCar season,

has been extremely competitive on permanent road

circuits since joining the series. Last year, he made the

Firestone Fast Six, the final round of road/street course

qualifying, three times all on permanent road circuits

including qualifying sixth here at Barber (fifth at Watkins

Glen and season high third at Mid-Ohio).  Unfortunately,

his inaugural visit to Barber was marred by a mechanical

problem and he finished 25th.

“It was a difficult, but productive day,” Sato said. “We learned a couple of things from the last test and came here this weekend with a different philosophy, which seems to be starting to work.  We collected valuable data today, but we have a lot of work to do to improve the car and we need to put everything together for tomorrow.”

Viso, who is contesting his fourth IndyCar season, second with KVRT - Lotus and first in the Lotus livery, is also making his second appearance at Barber.  Last year, the young Venezuelan started 10th and finished 16th. 

Commenting on his day Viso said, “It’s been a mixed day.  In the first practice session we made a lot of changes and little by little we made progress.  Unfortunately the session was cut short because of the rain.  The second session, I felt the car was much better, however despite a good entry into turn one, my exit was too fast and I found the tire wall.  Qualifying here is very important because it’s hard to overtake, so I am hoping for a good result tomorrow.”

Kanaan, who finished on the podium in his KVRT – Lotus debut with a third place finish in St. Petersburg, is making his first appearance at Barber since last year’s race having missed the Open Test in March.  The native of Brazil and 2004 IndyCar Series Champion, who joined the team just six days before the season opener, is entering his 14th season of major U. S. based open–wheel competition and 10th in the IndyCar Series.  Kanaan will be attempting to qualify for his 133rd consecutive IndyCar race tomorrow, the longest streak of any active driver (Scott Sharp holds the series record with 138 and KVRT – Lotus co-owner Jimmy Vasser is the all-time leader with 211 consecutive starts).  Kanaan started and finished eighth last year in the inaugural Barber race.

“Today we struggled a lot,” Kanaan said.  “The first session was cut short because of the rain, which didn’t help.  For the second session we tried something I really didn’t like and we just ran out of time to make the necessary adjustments.”

In this morning’s first practice, Sato led the team with the seventh fastest lap recording a time of 73.8155 seconds (112.712 mph).  Kanaan was 12th with a lap of 74.2371 seconds (111.535 mph) and Viso was 18th at 74.4955 seconds (111.148 mph).

KVRT – Lotus produced two top five finishes in the season opening Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg with Tony Kanaan, No. 82 GEICO – KV Racing Technology – Lotus, placing third and Takuma Sato, No. 5 KV Racing Technology – Lotus, finishing fifth. E. J. Viso, No. 59 PDVSA – KV Racing Technology – Lotus, suffered a puncture to a tire during the race, but never-the-less battled to the end finishing 19th. This was the first time that KV Racing Technology – Lotus placed two cars in the top-five in an IndyCar Series event.

Kanaan's result in St. Petersburg is even more remarkable considering both he and his crew joined the team just six days before the race. The 36-year-old native of Brazil and 2004 IndyCar Series Champion, is entering his 14th season of major U. S. based open–wheel competition and 10th in the IndyCar Series. The podium finish in St. Pete was his 50th in 133 IndyCar starts. A perennial championship contender, Kanaan will be making his second start on the 2.38-mile, 17-turn Barber permanent road circuit. Last year, he started eighth and finished eighth.

"Obviously, I missed the off-season testing at Barber, but the team had a strong test with Taku and E. J. so I think we're going to be good," Kanaan said. "Barber Motorsports Park is a very nice and beautiful facility where the fans show up in massive numbers, which is great for our series. It's a very difficult track to pass, but I'm hoping to have a weekend as good as I had in St. Petersburg."

Sato is coming off the best finish of his 18-race IndyCar career (fifth in St. Pete). The 34-year-old Formula 1 veteran is always extremely competitive on permanent road circuits. Last year, he made the Firestone Fast Six, the final round of road/street course qualifying, three times all on permanent road circuits including qualifying sixth at Barber (fifth at Watkins Glen and season high third at Mid-Ohio).

"I am really looking forward to going back to Barber," Sato said. "The circuit is really challenging and a beautiful setup with flowing corners. Last year, unfortunately I had a mechanical problem in the early part of the race, but my pace was looking promising so I expect we can repeat that again and have a strong race. Although we found a lot of work to be done after the pre-season open test, it was still a great session to understand many things and now having a good result at the opening race, I believe we can carry forward some good momentum. It is quite exciting."

Viso, 25, in his fourth IndyCar season, also competed at Barber last year starting 10th and finishing 16th. Although this is just the second race at Barber, the talented and determined Venezuelan has tested here three times in the last two years.

"We raced at Barber for the first time last year, so it is not totally new," Viso said. "The KVRT-Lotus team has also done some miles on it twice this year for testing and I felt we made good progress, which hopefully we will see this weekend. It is a tough track to overtake on, so qualifying will play a big and important part for the race. I had a tough weekend at St. Petersburg two weeks ago, but the overall team had a good start. I feel proud to be a part of this team and I think all the hard work we put in over the winter, showed on track."

Lotus Director of Motorsport Claudio Berro said, "We were delighted at the result in St. Petersburg. To have two cars in the top five at the first race has given KVRT – Lotus an excellent start to the Championship. I stated before St. Petersburg that I believed the ingredients were in place to enable us to progress and this result was the product of a great team effort. However, the season is a long one and we will not rest on our laurels. Undoubtedly this result has given us even more confidence, but we still have a lot of work to do to fulfill our ambition to become one of the top three teams in the series. It was a stunning debut by Tony Kanaan in Lotus colors, but no surprise as he has a great pedigree and a lot of experience. We are delighted that all the hard work put in by Taku in his debut season last year yielded a great result in St. Petersburg. I know he has what it takes to succeed and build upon that result. It was a disappointing race for E.J., but he is a strong character with a desire to succeed and I am sure we will see that over the course of the year."

Prix of St. Petersburg on the streets of downtown St. Petersburg, Florida.

Team mate Takuma Sato finished fifth marking the first time that KVRT - Lotus has placed two drivers in the top-five in an

IndyCar Series race. E. J. Viso suffered a rear tire puncture early in the race and placed 19th.

Kanaan made his KVRT - Lotus race debut a huge success by finishing on the podium. No stranger to the challenging

1.8-mile, 14-turn St. Petersburg temporary street circuit, Kanaan, who was making his seventh start here, qualified

eighth, but following a first lap accident that took out several other competitors, he moved into third place. From there he

challenged runner-up Will Power throughout the race and in the end held off a strong charge from Simona de Silvestro to

earn KVRT - Lotus' second IndyCar Series podium finish.

"I didn't expect anything in this race and maybe that was a good thing because it makes todays result that much better. I have to thank the whole GEICO - KV Racing Technology - Lotus team for giving me this opportunity. I also have to thank my fans, my family and sponsors in Brazil that made this happen a week ago, in fact six days ago. I'm afraid I may have raised the bar a little too high too quickly, but I am happy. We still have work to do, but today was a great result especially considering that the guys have only been together for less than a week."

Kanaan has now finished in the top-10 in every race he has run at St. Petersburg placing in the top-five all but once including five podium performances. His best showing is second in 2005.

Sato, No. 5 KV Racing Technology - Lotus, began his second IZOD IndyCar season and second with KVRT - Lotus today with the first top-five finish of his 18-race IndyCar career. After qualifying 11th for the second time in two tries at St. Petersburg, Sato moved into sixth after the opening lap incident. He dropped back a couple of places when under the new restart rules he lined up on the outside of the double file. Sato, who drove a strong, smart race, passed several cars on track. He also benefitted from some outstanding pit work from his KVRT - Lotus crew.

"This was a great way to start the season,"said Sato. "It is my first top-five finish in the IndyCar series. At the start of the race, I avoided the accident and gained some positions. However, on the restart, unfortunately, I was always on the outside of the double file and it seems very difficult to gain positions from there......in fact I lost many. But it was an exciting race. I overtook a few cars on the track and the team did a fantastic job with the pit stops, so I got some of the positions back. We still need to do a lot of work, but I am happy to start the season this way."

Viso, No. 59 PDVSA - KV Racing Technology - Lotus, driving for KVRT for a second season, but first in the Lotus livery, made his fourth start in St. Petersburg today. Viso, who started 21st got as high as ninth after the first yellow flag, but shortly thereafter he suffered a puncture and by the time he rejoined the race he was five laps down. Showing determination and toughness, Viso continued to compete earning valuable championship points. This track has been both kind and cruel to Viso. He earned his career best road/street course finish, fourth, here in 2008, then last year he took the lead and looked to be a lock for the win before a mechanical problem hampered his efforts.

"It has been one of these weekends that we can forget," said Viso. "I need to thank my crew because it has been a pretty eventful few days. I think we can go away knowing that we have learned a lot and this is what team work is about. Its about supporting people. At the start of the race I was running ninth, after starting 21st. The car was feeling really strong and then I got a puncture on the right rear coming through the fast chicane. It took time for the safety crew to get me back to the pits and then for my crew to get me back on track, so that put us five laps down. Hopefully, we will have a better weekend at Barber."

Next up for KVRT - Lotus is the Indy Grand Prix of Alabama presented by Legacy Credit Union, April 8-10, at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama. The race will be broadcast live on Versus beginning at 3:00 p.m. ET.

Kanaan, No. 82 GEICO – KV Racing Technology – Lotus, qualified with a lap of 62.7818 seconds (103.215 mph) on the 1.8-mile, 14-turn temporary street circuit and will start on the outside of Row No. 4. Sato, No. 5 KV Racing Technology - Lotus, recorded a qualifying time of 62.9312 seconds (102.970 mph) putting him on the inside of Row No. 6. Viso, No. 59 PDVSA - KV Racing Technology - Lotus, had a qualifying time of 63.4065 seconds (102.198 mph), making his grid position the inside of Row No. 11. Both Kanaan and Sato advanced to the second round of road/street course qualifying, but fell just short of making the final round, the Firestone Fast Six.

Kanaan, who is making his debut with KVRT - Lotus after signing with the team earlier this week, will be contesting his seventh race at St. Petersburg. He has qualified eighth or better for every race here with five top-three starting positions including twice on the front row with one pole, in 2008. Kanaan has finished in the top-10 in every race he has run here placing in the top-five all but once including four podium performances. He best showing is second in 2005.

"I have to thank the whole GEICO - KV Racing Technology - Lotus team," said Kanaan. "I jumped into this car two days ago and the whole team made me feel right at home. I am just happy to be here and happy that I gave them a good solid qualifying result today. This is just the beginning and I have to remember to be patient, which is hard for me."

Commenting on tomorrow's race, Kanaan said, "It is going to be a tough race tomorrow. The race setup is not what we used in qualifying, but we have a warm-up tomorrow to fine tune the car. My goal is to have a good performance and bring the car home."

Sato, in his second IZOD IndyCar season and second with KVRT - Lotus, has now qualified 11th both times here at St. Petersburg.

"I was disappointed not to qualify in the top-10," Sato said. " It has been a tough weekend. We have struggled to find balance and grip during practice and qualifying. However, I think we managed to gather some valuable information from these sessions. We have a lot of work to do to improve the car for the race tomorrow."

Viso will be making his fourth start, second with KVRT and first in Lotus livery at St. Petersburg. The young Venezuelan, who had three eventful practice sessions, came through with a solid performance in qualifying missing the second round by a little more than three tenths of a second. In four appearances here in St. Petersburg, Viso has a best starting position of ninth, in 2010 and a best finish of fourth in 2008, which is also his career high on a road/street circuit. Last year, he took the lead here and led one lap before a mechanical problem hampered his efforts.

"So far it has been a tough weekend for the crew of the No. 59 PDVSA car," Viso said. "We are keeping the faith and we feel that we will be strong in tomorrow's race. We found some issues that could have been better in qualifying. On a street circuit it matters where you start, but more important is where you finish and that is what we are working on now. St. Petersburg is a place I really like. In the three races I have done here I have had a good rhythm and that is what I am looking forward to tomorrow."

In this morning's practice, Kanaan logged the team's fastest lap with a time of 63.3988 seconds (102.210 mph) putting him seventh on both the session and combined practice reports. Sato was 10th on the practice report with a lap of 63.5953seconds (101.894 mph), which put him 11th on the combined chart. Viso was 18th in the session at 64.0412 seconds (101.185 mph) and 19th on the combined.

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Kanaan, No. 82 GEICO – KV Racing Technology – Lotus, had a fast lap of 64.0698 seconds (101.140 mph) on the 1.8-mile, 14-turn temporary street circuit. Sato, No. 5 KV Racing Technology - Lotus, clocked in at 64.2429 seconds (100.867 mph), while Viso, No. 59 PDVSA - KV Racing Technology - Lotus, recorded a time of 64.5397 seconds (100.403 mph). Kanaan and Sato ran their quick laps during the second of two practices today.

Kanaan, who signed with KVRT - Lotus on Monday, is entering his 14th season of major U. S. based open–wheel competition and 10th in the IZOD IndyCar Series. He is making his seventh appearance at St. Petersburg. In six previous races, Kanaan has always qualified in the top-six. He has started in the top-three five times, on the front row twice with one pole, in 2008. Kanaan has finished in the top-10 every year, the top-five all but once, on the podium four times with a best finish of second in 2005.

"The car was OK, we're working on it," Kanaan said. "Everything is so new to me and I'm still getting used to what to do and what not to do with my new team. This was our first real test day so I'm glad it went smooth and I'm glad to be here with KVRT - Lotus and GEICO. There is still a lot of work to do, but we will get it."

Sato, who is in his second IZOD IndyCar season and second with KVRT - Lotus, is making his second appearance at St. Petersburg. Commenting on today's practice he said, "I like the atmosphere of the race season finally starting and it's a nice feeling to be back in the KV Racing Technology - Lotus car. We have not been on a street circuit since last July in Toronto, so the first session was good fun and I started to get my rhythm back. As the track conditions improved during the second session we struggled a bit with the balance of the car. The good thing is that we split the program between the drivers so we have a lot of data to work with tonight."

Viso, who is contesting his fourth IZOD IndyCar season, second with KVRT - Lotus and first in the Lotus livery, will be making his fourth start in St. Petersburg. In his three previous appearances he has a best qualifying position of ninth, in 2010 and a best finish of fourth in 2008, which is also his career high on a road/street circuit. Last year, he took the lead here and led one lap before a mechanical problem hampered his efforts.

"It feels great to be back with the KV Racing Technology team especially now that we are starting this relationship with Lotus," said Viso. "Today has been a productive day for the team. We made good progress with our setups. The morning session was a good one, I finished eighth and I was running as high as fifth, but during the last minute something happened with the car and we brushed the wall. In the second session, the car felt solid at the start of my run, but unfortunately, I went a little wide heading into the last corner and got into the dirt. I couldn't stop the car and hit the tire barrier which damaged the front suspension, ending my session. I believe, as a team we are in a good position, so I am looking forward to tomorrow's qualifying, it should be a good one."

In this morning's first practice, Viso logged the team's fastest lap with a time of 64.5397 seconds (100.403 mph) good for eighth on the speed charts. Sato was 11th on the practice report with a lap of 64.7668 seconds (100.051 mph) and Kanaan was 12th at 64.8591 seconds (99.909 mph).

Sato announces his "With you Japan" support campaign:

Takuma Sato announced today his direct support campaign "With you Japan" to help the victims of the recent dreadful events in Japan. "With you Japan" will engage in a number of fundraising events over the coming weeks and months starting with a joint initiative involving all the IZOD IndyCar drivers. This weekend, many drivers have agreed to donate a pair of race gloves for auction. Gloves were chosen because they symbolize the hands of friendship between the USA and Japan. Sato will also carry the "With you Japan" campaign logo on his car and helmet, and has asked other drivers to do the same where possible.

"With you Japan" will engage in a number of fundraising events over the coming weeks and months starting with a joint initiative involving all the IndyCar drivers. At the season's first race, the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on Sunday, March 27, drivers have agreed to donate a pair of race gloves for auction. Gloves were chosen because they symbolize the hands of friendship between the USA and Japan.

Ultimately, this support scheme will directly benefit children affected by the disaster some of whom now face rebuilding their lives from scratch having lost their family, friends and home. For them, the amount of care, counseling and love they will need cannot be imagined.

Gathering his fellow IndyCar drivers in St Petersburg, Takuma will take possession of the donated gloves and thank everyone for their support.

Additionally at the St Petersburg race, Takuma will carry the "With you Japan" campaign message logo on his KV-Lotus race car and helmet, and has asked other drivers to do the same where possible.

Takuma commented, "It is just so devastating and heartbreaking what has happened. Japan is suffering. People there are suffering so much. Children are going through a terrifying situation. I am personally supporting a few campaigns but since I am competing in the IndyCar series, I want to do something to support Japan from America. Now is the time that we need to walk and support hand in hand. This "With you Japan" campaign is going to do several projects and hopefully make a differenceIn response to the recent dreadful events in Japan, IZOD IndyCar Series driver Takuma Sato has launched a direct support campaign entitled "With you Japan" to help the victims of this tragedy.

"With you Japan" will engage in a number of fundraising events over the coming weeks and months starting with a joint initiative involving all the IndyCar drivers. At the season's first race, the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on Sunday, March 27, drivers have agreed to donate a pair of race gloves for auction. Gloves were chosen because they symbolize the hands of friendship between the USA and Japan.

Ultimately, this support scheme will directly benefit children affected by the disaster some of whom now face rebuilding their lives from scratch having lost their family, friends and home. For them, the amount of care, counseling and love they will need cannot be imagined.

Gathering his fellow IndyCar drivers in St Petersburg, Takuma will take possession of the donated gloves and thank everyone for their support.

Additionally at the St Petersburg race, Takuma will carry the "With you Japan" campaign message logo on his KV-Lotus race car and helmet, and has asked other drivers to do the same where possible.

Takuma commented, "It is just so devastating and heartbreaking what has happened. Japan is suffering. People there are suffering so much. Children are going through a terrifying situation. I am personally supporting a few campaigns but since I am competing in the IndyCar series, I want to do something to support Japan from America. Now is the time that we need to walk and support hand in hand. This "With you Japan" campaign is going to do several projects and hopefully make a difference."

KVRT - Lotus will field a full-time three car effort this season. Tony Kanaan, who signed with the team on Monday, will pilot the No. 82 GEICO – KV Racing Technology – Lotus entry. Takuma Sato, will be campaigning his second season with the team and remains behind the wheel of the No. 5 KV Racing Technology - Lotus machine. E. J. Viso, also in his second year with KVRT, but first in Lotus livery, will drive the No. 59 PDVSA - KV Racing Technology - Lotus car.

"I believe that we have one of the strongest driver line-ups we have ever assembled," said KVRT - Lotus co-owner Jimmy Vasser. "I want to thank GEICO, PDVSA, Panasonic and all of our other partners for their support. This will be a very competitive season and I think that we can compete for podiums and race wins."

KVRT - Lotus General Manager Mark Johnson said, "I am very pleased with the way our pre-season program has gone. I am also extremely pleased with the job Team Manager Tom Wurtz and his entire staff have done. I think we are as ready to start a season as we have ever been."

Kanaan, the 2004 IndyCar Series Champion, is known as a consistent and fearless competitor. The 36-year-old Brazilian is entering his 14th season of major U. S. based open–wheel competition and 10th in the IndyCar Series (ran one IndyCar race in 2002). A perennial championship contender, Kanaan has made 225 career open-wheel starts earning 150 top-10 finishes including 94 top-five showings, 55 podium performances, 15 wins and 14 pole positions. His IndyCar record is even more impressive. In 132 starts, Kanaan has finished in the top-10 a remarkable 102 times, including 78 top-five showings, 49 podium performances, 14 wins and 10 poles. Last year, Kanaan finished sixth in the championship standings for the second consecutive year earning 13 top-10 finishes, with seven top-five showings, three podiums and one win (Iowa).

"Obviously I'm very excited for the season-opener this weekend at St. Petersburg with KVRT - Lotus and the No. 82 GEICO car," Kanaan said. "We had a shake down test last Tuesday on the Homestead Speedway road course and it served it's purpose well. I got to know my crew and engineers and log some laps around the track to get the feel for the car. Since we don't race at that track, we weren't trying to break any records, only making sure that everything was working properly and that everyone felt comfortable with each other. We also did some pit-stop practice and everything went pretty well. The goal in St. Pete is to do our best and bring the car home, not try to set the world on fire. We all need to be realistic and take one step at the time. Again I'd like to thank KVRT - Lotus for making this happen together with GEICO and my Brazilian sponsors. I'm sure that this partnership will be good for both sides and entertaining to all of my fans."

Sato, 34, known as "Taku", is one of the most recognized stars in Japan. A veteran of seven Formula 1 seasons, he will be contesting his second IndyCar season. Last year, despite minimal testing and having never driven an IndyCar, Taku earned one top-10 finish placing ninth at Edmonton. Sato qualified in the top-10 eight times reaching the Firestone Fast Six, the final round of road/street course qualifying, on three occasions with a best starting position of third at Mid-Ohio. His top oval finishes came in the final two races of the season including a best showing at Twin Ring Motegi, Japan.

"The opening race of the season is always exciting," said Sato. "I can't wait to get started for my second year of the series at St. Petersburg where there is a great atmosphere. Last year here was not a good experience for me, so hopefully this year turns out to be good. There is one thing that may be needless to say but with the dreadful recent disaster in Japan, I will race for my home country. I am very appreciative of everyone's support and pleased to launch a supporting campaign entitled 'With you Japan'. It's going to be a long and tough season for both recovering Japan and my racing but I am very motivated for the challenges."

Viso, 25, a personable and outgoing Venezuelan will be contesting his fourth IndyCar season. In 2010, his first year with KVRT, Viso ran in the top-five in several events and earned his first career podium, a third at Iowa. He also led eight laps at St. Petersburg before retiring with a mechanical problem. Viso qualified in the top-ten five times and made the Firestone Fast Six at Edmonton, qualifying a season high sixth.

"I am very excited to be back at this track," said Viso. "The past three times that I have raced here I have been running in the top three until something happened, mostly mechanical. I am hoping this year we won't have any of these problems. I also believe all the hard work that the KV Racing Technology - Lotus team put in over the winter will pay off. I feel we are going in the right direction and look forward to a good race at St. Pete this year."

Lotus Director of Motorsport Claudio Berro said, "For us last year was all about learning, this year we would really like to achieve some podium finishes – we want to start to contest with some of the front runners.

"We believe that we have one of the strongest driver line-ups on the grid with a great blend of experience, talent, enthusiasm and total commitment. I am convinced we have all the right ingredients in place to build upon our inaugural season and to make the necessary progress and ultimately enjoy success in the coming months and years."

KV Racing Technology – Lotus announced today that IndyCar star Tony Kanaan will contest the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series season for the team.

Kanaan, with primary support from GEICO, will pilot the No. 82 GEICO – KV Racing Technology – Lotus Honda/Dallara/Firestone entry. He joins Takuma Sato and E. J. Viso in a three-car effort for the team in 2011.

"I am very pleased to announce that Tony Kanaan is joining our team," said KVRT – Lotus co-owner Kevin Kalkhoven. "Tony will be an asset both on and off the track. His addition, in combination with Takuma Sato and E. J. Viso, will provide us with the opportunity to be consistently competitive. I also want to acknowledge GEICO for their support in making Tony's addition to KVRT – Lotus possible."

KVRT - Lotus co-owner Jimmy Vasser said. "I think Tony (Kanaan) is a great addition to our team. He, along with Taku and EJ gives KVRT – Lotus a very strong driver line-up and one I am sure can compete for podium finishes and race wins. Tony's knowledge and experience will be extremely valuable to our team. I would also like to thank GEICO for their support and KVRT – Lotus General Manager Mark Johnson for his tireless work getting all the parties together."

Ted Ward, GEICO's Vice President of Marketing said, "We are excited at the opportunity to once again work with KV Racing Technology - Lotus in the IndyCar Series. We feel that safety is an important component of auto racing and being associated with Jimmy Vasser and Tony Kanaan will only help us to continue to spread our message. This is our first full season primary sponsorship in the IndyCar Series and we feel it will complement our current longstanding NASCAR programs and assist us in reaching a much broader fan base."

Kanaan, the 2004 IndyCar Series Champion, who completed every lap of every race in route to the championship, is known as a consistent and fearless competitor. The 36-year-old native of Brazil is entering his 14th season of major U. S. based open–wheel competition and 10th in the IndyCar Series (ran one IndyCar race in 2002). A perennial championship contender, Kanaan has made 225 career open-wheel starts earning 150 top-10 finishes including 94 top-five showings with 15 wins and 14 pole positions. His IndyCar record is even more impressive. In 132 starts, Kanaan has finished in the top-10 a remarkable 102 times, including 78 top-five performances, 14 wins and 10 poles.

Commenting on his signing with KVRT – Lotus, Kanaan said, "Jimmy (Vasser) and I started talking about joining forces at the end of last season, but the timing was not ideal and I ended up signing with Gil (de Ferran). When I became a free agent in mid-February, calling Vasser seemed like a natural thing to do since KVRT was one of the top teams still looking for a driver. Jimmy and I go back a long way, we were rivals during the CART days, but more than that, we have always been good friends, which helped a lot with our negotiations.

"I'm thrilled that we reached an agreement and from the bottom of my heart I'd like to thank KV Racing Technology – Lotus for the opportunity they have given me and especially for taking me under the circumstances I found myself in. KVRT - Lotus is one of the most successful teams that joined IndyCar from Champ Car and I can't wait to sit in the legendary Lotus No. 82 car and start working with the crew. I've spent the last six months looking for sponsorship and not thinking about racing. so I missed all the pre-season testing, but I really can't complain. With a group of guys like Vasser and his team backing me, plus the help of my new teammates, Takuma Sato and E. J. Viso, the only thing I can say is that I'm ready to do what I do best, drive a racecar and push hard to give KVRT – Lotus their first IndyCar win.

"I want to thank GEICO for their help in making it possible for me to join KVRT - Lotus. I would also like to thank all of my fans and supporters that stuck with me during this extra-long offseason and invite them to stay tuned on the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series. I can assure you it will be a very exciting one. I can't forget to mention that my son Leo is very thankful that I kept my car green, he was having a hard time accepting any other color."

Lotus Director of Motorsport Claudio Berro said, "We are delighted to welcome Tony Kanaan to the KVRT – Lotus team. The addition of a driver of Tony's calibre strengthens our existing team and reiterates our commitment to IndyCar and to achieving success in the series. Tony, a former champion with multiple race wins, brings with him a wealth of experience. He will undoubtedly be a great asset to the team complementing our existing driver line-up of Takuma Sato and E.J. Viso, who also flies the flag for Lotus for the first time this year.

"We believe that we have one of the strongest driver line-ups on the grid with a great blend of experience, talent, enthusiasm and total commitment. I am convinced we have all the right ingredients in place to build upon our inaugural season and to make the necessary progress and ultimately enjoy success in the coming months and years."

The 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series season begins March 25-27 with the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg in St. Petersburg, Florida.

KV Racing Technology - Lotus drivers Takuma Sato and E.J. Viso were sixth and 15th respectively on the final speed charts following the conclusion of the IZOD IndyCar Series Open Test, March 14-15, at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama.

Sato, driving the No. 5 KV Racing Technology – Lotus Honda/Dallara/Firestone car, turned a quick time of 72.4742 seconds (114.248 mph) on the picturesque 2.3-mile, 17-turn permanent road circuit in today's second practice session. Viso, behind the wheel of the No. 8 PDVSA – KV Racing Technology – Lotus Honda/Dallara/Firestone entry, recorded his fast lap of 73.0170 seconds (113.398 mph) yesterday afternoon.

"This test was very difficult for me because of what has happened in

Japan, however it went well," Sato said. "The KV Racing

Technology – Lotus team worked on a lot of things, like pit stops

and race preparation, over the last two days and it was a productive

test. It was very competitive out there. Obviously, the top teams

are really strong, but we learned quite a bit, so that was a positive."

Viso said, "The first day of the test we went through different setups

and by the end of the day we found something that was useful.

The second day we just kept trying different things on the car,

working to improve it, but at the end of the day we had a few

issues that need to be addressed before the first race. Overall it

was a useful and positive test and I look forward to coming back

to Barber for the race."

Sato ran 20 laps in the morning practice session, which began late due to an overnight rain storm, and posted the 10th fastest time with a quick lap of 73.5929 seconds (112.511 mph). Viso turned 19 laps and recorded the 15th quickest time (73.8990 seconds, 112.045 mph).

In the second practice Sato ran 49 laps, 69 total for the day, and was consistently quick spending much of the session in the top-five. He ran 129 laps over the two days (60 Monday and 69 on Tuesday). Viso ran 44 laps in the afternoon, a total of 63 for the day and 131 during the two-day open test (68 on Monday and 63 today).

Viso and Sato were seventh and 13th respectively on the combined practice report following the first day of testing with Viso running a fast lap of 73.0170 seconds (113.398 mph), while Sato 73.1913 seconds (113.128 mph). Both drivers recorded their fast laps on Monday during the second of the two practice sessions held on Monday and both did it their 59th overall lap.

This was the second test of the preseason for KVRT – Lotus in preparation for the start of the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series season which opens the weekend of March 25-27 with the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg in St. Petersburg, Florida. The team previously tested both cars here at Barber on March 1.

Top six times from the IndyCar Series Open Test:

Helio Castroneves - 71.9434 seconds (115.090 mph)

Will Power - 71.9636 seconds (115.058 mph)

Scott Dixon - 72.2815 seconds (114.552 mph)

Ryan Briscoe - 72.2954 seconds (114.530 mph)

Oriol Servia - 72.3594 seconds (114.429 mph)

Takuma Sato - 72.4742 seconds (114.248 mphj)

Sato, who is coping with the repercussions from the devastation wrought by the earthquake and tsunami that struck his native Japan last Friday, displayed a decal on his helmet and car saying "Pray for Japan."

"It is so heartbreaking what has happened in Japan. I wanted to do something to support the people back home, so we put the "Pray for Japan" message on my car and helmet. I really appreciate all the support the drivers, the fans, the media, everyone has shown. Fortunately, for me, my family and friends are okay, but that is really a small part. My head and heart are in Japan at the moment. It is just so devastating. People are suffering. From a professional point of view I have to be 100% committed to driving the car, however I have spent a lot of time thinking about what I can do to support Japan. Today's message was just a gesture in the hope that the people back in Japan know that we care and are encouraged by that. I am working on a bigger project that will allow the IndyCar community and fans to get involved and hope to be able to announce something in the coming days."

KV Racing Technology – Lotus and drivers Takuma Sato and E. J. Viso had a successful first test in preparation for the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series season today at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama.

Today's test was a "shakedown" with both drivers running approximately 100 miles in an effort to "knock some of the rust off" prior to the IZOD IndyCar Series Open Test on March 14-15, also at Barber.

"KV Racing Technology - Lotus had a successful test and I am extremely pleased with the job Team Manager Tom Wurtz and his entire staff did today," said KVRT - Lotus General Manager Mark Johnson. "This was our first pre-season test and first with Tom running the show. It went off without a hitch as would be expected of someone with his experience.

We started off a little slow with a couple of spins, but finished the day strong."

Sato, who will be driving the No. 5 KV Racing Technology – Lotus Honda/Dallara/Firestone car in his second IndyCar season both with KVRT – Lotus, said, "It was nice to get back in the car again especially since it has been a long time since we were last on a road course. This was a shakedown test, so we had limited mileage, but we were able to evaluate a few items before the open test at Barber in two weeks, which is important. It was also good to get back to work with the team. We have a few new faces so it was good to get together. We still have to look at the data, but overall I feel it was a very successful test."

Viso, behind the wheel of the No. 8 PDVSA – KV Racing Technology – Lotus Honda/Dallara/Firestone entry, is entering his fourth IndyCar season, second with KVRT – Lotus and first with Lotus livery said, ""This was the first test of the season for the KV Racing Technology – Lotus team and I am very excited with how things went. We made a lot of progress with all the things we tested and are definitely in a better position heading into the open test at Barber in two weeks. The atmosphere with the team is very positive. Everybody is working hard as we get ready for the season, so I feel good about the way things are going."

The 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series season opens March 25-27 with the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on the streets

of St. Petersburg, Florida.

The KV Racing Technology (KVRT) Lotus Team announces Sato and Viso to contest 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series Season.

Lotus' IndyCar team KVRT Lotus is delighted to confirm that Takuma Sato and E J Viso will fly the green and yellow flag in the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series.

Lotus Director of Motorsport Claudio Berro said: "For us last year was all about learning, this year we would really like to achieve some podium finishes – we want to start to contest with some of the front runners.

"What we're doing with IndyCar is very similar to the way we tackle all our race involvement, first we test the water with an established team, we then explore ways in which to expand our involvement – increasing our commitment to KVRT is one such step as is our intention to supply engine and aero body kits from 2012 onwards."

A veteran of seven Formula 1 seasons, Sato, one of the most recognized stars in Japan, will be contesting his second IndyCar season. Last year, despite minimal testing and having never driven an IndyCar or any of the circuits, he earned one top-10 finish, placing ninth at Edmonton. Sato qualified in the top-10 eight times reaching the Firestone Fast Six, the final round of road/street course qualifying, on three occasions with a best starting position of third at Mid-Ohio. His top oval finishes came in the final two races of the season including a best showing at Twin Ring Motegi, Japan. Sato, 34, known as "Taku", will pilot the #5 KVRT Lotus entry.

Commenting on the announcement Taku said: "I'm delighted to be racing in green and yellow again this season. Last year was a real baptism of fire for me and anyone who knows me knows how much I love a challenge, with a year under my belt, this year my challenge is to really up my game and put some of the more experienced guys under pressure!"

Team Principal Jimmy Vasser said: "We are very excited to have Taku and E. J. back with us for 2011. The fact that both drivers are returning for their second year with the team gives us continuity in the cockpit. I believe that having a second season with the same driver and engineer combinations will be beneficial to our team and will produce some very positive results."

Viso, 25, will be behind the wheel of the #8 PDVSA – KVRT Lotus, the personable and outgoing Venezuelan will be contesting his fourth IndyCar season. In 2010, his first year with KVRT, Viso ran in the top-five in several events and earned his first career podium finish, a third at Iowa. He also led eight laps at St. Petersburg before retiring with a mechanical problem. Viso qualified in the top-ten five times and made the Firestone Fast Six at Edmonton, qualifying a season high sixth.

"I am really happy to be back with KVRT," Viso said. "Last year was very successful even if the results don't necessarily show it. We worked very hard to develop the car and I think we showed we could be competitive. I believe the progress we made last year, combined with the continuity we will have with the team will be a key to our success in 2011."

Viso went on to say, "I am also very excited about becoming a part of the history of Lotus racing. Looking towards 2012 when we have the new chassis and engine rules, I think having a strong relationship with Lotus will benefit the entire team and will be important for the future. I want to thank my sponsors. I really appreciate their support and I just want everyone to know that I will keep working hard knowing that things are looking so good for the future."

“We are very excited to have Taku and E. J. back with us for 2011," said Vasser.  "The fact that both drivers are returning for their second year with the team gives us continuity in the cockpit.  I believe that having a second season with the same driver and engineer combinations will be beneficial to our team and will produce some very positive results.”

Sato, 34, known as “Taku”, will pilot the #5 KV Racing Technology – Lotus Honda/Dallara/Firestone entry.  A veteran of seven Formula 1 seasons, Sato, one of the most recognized stars in Japan, will be contesting his second IndyCar season.  Last year, despite minimal testing and having never driven an IndyCar or any of the circuits, he earned one top-10 finish placing ninth at Edmonton.  Sato qualified in the top-10 eight times reaching the Firestone Fast Six, the final round of road/street course qualifying, on three occasions with a best starting position of third at Mid-Ohio.  His top oval finishes came in the final two races of the season including a best showing at Twin Ring Motegi, Japan.

“I am very excited to be driving for KV Racing Technology - Lotus for a second year,” Taku said. “This is a team with tremendous potential.  Everyone back in the shop worked really hard to push the performance up over the winter so I am very motivated and ready to challenge in my second IndyCar season.   I want to thank all my sponsors for their support and look forward to sharing success together very soon.”

Viso, 25, will be behind the wheel of the #8 PDVSA – KV Racing Technology – Lotus Honda/Dallara/Firestone car supported by PDVSA, Herbalife, CANTV, SBA Airlines and team partner Plantronics.  The personable and outgoing Venezuelan will be contesting his fourth IndyCar season.  In 2010, his first year with KVRT, Viso ran in the top-five in several events and earned his first career podium finish, a third at Iowa.  He also led eight laps at St. Petersburg before retiring with a mechanical problem.  Viso qualified in the top-ten five times and made the Firestone Fast Six at Edmonton, qualifying a season high sixth.

“I am really happy to be back with KV Racing Technology,” Viso said.  “Last year was very successful even if the results don’t necessarily show it.  We worked very hard to develop the car and I think we showed we could be competitive.  I believe the progress we made last year combined with the continuity we have with personnel will be a key to our success in 2011.”

Viso went on to say, “I am also very excited about becoming a part of the history of Lotus racing.  Looking towards 2012 when we have the new chassis and engine rules, I think having a strong relationship with Lotus will benefit the entire team and will be important for the future.  I want to thank my sponsors.  I really appreciate their support and I just want everyone to know that I will keep working hard knowing that things are looking so good for the future.”

Lotus Director of Motorsport Claudio Berro said, “For us last year was all about learning, this year we would really like to achieve some podium finishes – we want to start to contest with some of the front runners.

“What we’re doing with IndyCar is very similar to the way we tackle all our race involvement, first we test the water with an established team, we then explore ways in which to expand our involvement – increasing our commitment to KVRT is one such step as is our intention to supply engine and aero body kits from 2012 onwards.”

Lotus supplies engines and aero body kits for the 2012 IZOD IndyCar Series

In a five year deal starting in 2012, Lotus, the UK based iconic sports and racecar manufacturer, will supply in-house engines and aero body kits for the IZOD IndyCar Series.

Lotus will also create a motorsport facility in Indianapolis giving the company a base in the thick of the action for this exciting and adrenalin filled race series as well as being close to IndyCar engine and aero body kit customers.

Dany Bahar, CEO of Group Lotus said: Lotus is unique in the automotive world, no other car company has been more successful in such a wide variety of motorsports discipline, whether it is Le Mans, World Rally, Sportscars, F1 of course and IndyCar. This year we teamed up with KV Racing for IndyCar and we will significantly increase our participation next year. However in 2012 IndyCar competitors will have the exciting opportunity to choose an IndyCar with a Lotus engine and aero body kit, immediately become part of a legacy that is Lotus: one of the most innovative and successful sports and racing car brands in the world.

Claudio Berro, Director of Lotus Motorsport said: The history and DNA of Lotus is all about extracting the most performance out of a car in return for maximum efficiency and we are delighted to offer our engine and aero body kit to the 2012 IndyCar series.

We will be using the knowledge gained from our extensive research into E85 bio fuel and turbo charged engines to ensure we extract the maximum performance. As you would expect from the company that pioneered aerodynamics in sports car and F1 racing over the years, our aero body kit will also be a world class solution. So all in all, will the 2012 Lotus IndyCar will be as innovative and revolutionary as the Lotus Type 38 that won in 1965 and changed Indy forever? Maybe well have to wait and see!

Randy Bernard, CEO of Indycar said: Lotus is a renowned name in racing, with a long association with some of the greatest names of motorsports. Were honored Lotus has chosen to serve as an engine manufacturer for the first time.

The Lotus IndyCar engine will follow the agreed rules, namely 2.4 litre, up to 6 cylinders and turbo charged and producing between 550 and 700 horsepower to suit the diverse set of tracks on which the IZOD IndyCar Series competes. All engines will run on E85 with additional details on the fuel platform to be announced at a later date. Lotus will join Honda (Japan) and Chevrolet (USA) as an engine supplier.

IZOD IndyCar Series rookie Takuma Sato was cruelly denied the strong result he deserved in the 2010 finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway this weekend, after late-race contact dropped the KV Racing Technology star down the order to an unrepresentative 18th-position finish.

Having continued his impressive learning curve across the Pond by qualifying an impressive ninth – the best-placed of the KVRT trio – Sato ran inside the top ten along with oval-racing veterans Dan Wheldon, Marco Andretti, Ed Carpenter and Vitor Meira in the early stages of the 200-lap Cafes do Brasil Indy 300, before a three-way battle over the final 20 laps sadly ended in tears, as the #5 Lotus-KVRT Honda/Dallara/Firestone entry found itself squeezed out.

"It was a tough day, it really was," lamented the former Super Aguri F1 ace. "At the beginning of the race we struggled with balance but, after some changes at my first stop, it felt better. We just lacked speed. It was an exciting race, running two or three-wide but, at the end, I was sandwiched between two cars and made slight contact, which dropped me back a few places. The KV Racing Technology crew was faultless in the pit-stops, and I want to thank them for all their hard work this season."

Taku ends the 2010 IndyCar Series campaign 21st in the points standings, with a best result of ninth at Edmonton in July.

Takuma Sato is catching onto oval racing rather quickly with his No. 5 Lotus-KV Racing Technology Honda/Dallara/Firestone entry with another top-ten qualifying effort Friday in preparations for Saturday's Cafes do Brasil Indy 300 at Homestead Miami Speedway.

Sato, who had never competed at an oval track before May, recorded his sixth appearance in the top-11 for oval qualifications in 2010 with a two-lap average speed of 211.355 miles per hour. Sato's best oval qualifying run was seventh at Iowa this year.

After making an appearance for Lotus in this year's Paris Auto Show, Sato flew across the Atlantic Ocean all day Thursday to prepare for his Homestead debut. Despite just an hour of practice time, the former Formula One star turned in a sensational qualifying effort. Sato finished 12th two weeks ago at Motegi, Japan in front of an adoring crowd.

Sato's KV Racing Technology teammates, E.J. Viso and Mario Moraes, were in the top-ten in earlier qualifying runs before settling for 12th and 13th on the 27-car starting grid for the Saturday night 200-lap season finale on the fast 1.5-mile oval south of Miami.

Viso, in the No. 8 PDVSA — KV Racing Technology Honda/Dallara/Firestone car, returns near his current hometown of Miami with a huge contingent of sponsors, family and friends at Homestead. The personable 25-year-old Venezuelan will start 12th in the 7 p.m. EDT race. Viso clocked his two qualifying laps at 210.928 m.p.h. on Friday.

Moraes, the 21-year-old racer from Sao Paulo, Brazil, comes to Homestead with a sore back after a Motegi incident on lap 66. Moraes has been working in physical therapy for a week in Brazil and ran impressively in the top-four during his qualifying attempt.

Driving the No. 32 Terra—-KV Racing Technology Honda/Dallara/Firestone machine, Moraes was quicker than the likes of Marco Andretti, Graham Rahal, Alex Tagliani and Ryan Hunter-Reay. He ended up 13th on the grid with a speed of 210.741.

DRIVER QUOTES:

TAKUMA SATO -- #5 LOTUS – KV RACING TECHNOLOGY HONDA/DALLARA/FIRESTONE: "It was a challenging day. The Miami track is quite tough. This is the first time I have been here and the track surface is very slippery so it's is difficult to balance the car. However, through the practice we were able to progress well and, in qualifying, I was able to get in some good laps. I am pleased with qualifying ninth."

E.J. VISO -- #8 PDVSA – KV RACING TECHNOLOGY HONDA/DALLARA/FIRESTONE: "The PDVSA – KV car felt a little loose on the warm-up lap. But I was able to adjust the car with my tools in the cockpit, and I had a pretty smooth run for the rest of qualifying. This is my home race since I live in Miami Beach. This is a special race for me. It is the last round of the championship and I have a lot of sponsors as well as many family and friends coming to the event. I have a lot of confidence in the car as we have run well coming to the front of the field on ovals. I think we can do that again here on Saturday night."

MARIO MORAES -- #32 TERRA — KV RACING TECHNOLOGY HONDA/DALLARA/FIRESTONE: "The past week and half in Brazil I have been working in Brazil with physical therapy twice a day to improve my back after the crash in Japan. We qualified okay with the KV Racing car today. This Homestead track is tough with the different wind directions. It means you have to approach one corner different from another. We will work on our race setup today (Friday) in practice and I think we'll have a good race car. The conditions will be different in the evening."

Takuma Sato will hope to end his maiden IndyCar Series season a high this weekend at Homestead Miami Speedway.

Taku goes into the Cafes do Brasil Indy 300 on the back of an impressive performance on home soil at Twin Ring Motegi at the wheel of the #5 Lotus-KV Racing Technology entry, where he was the highest placed Japanese driver in twelfth place.

The former F1 racer has shown his potential on ovals this season after running near the front at Indianapolis, Iowa and Chicagoland

"We had a very successful weekend in Japan though it started with some difficulty," Taku said. "The result doesn't explain everything but my team worked extremely well together.

"I have great confidence in them going to Homestead for the final race of the season in good shape."

Takuma Sato was treated like a rock star this weekend at Twin Ring Motegi, and the Japanese driving star had the enthusiastic crowd on its feet Sunday in the Indy Japan 300, the 16th round of the 17-race IZOD IndyCar Series.

Sato, making his Motegi debut in the No. 5 Lotus — KV Racing Technology Honda/Dallara/Firestone car, fought off amazing crowds in the paddock area and battled his way on the track to finish 12th at the fast 1.5-mile oval north of Tokyo.

Sato's 12th place finish paced the three-driver KV Racing Technology lineup with E.J. Viso taking 15th and Mario Moraes 24th. Moraes' car made contact with the Turn Two wall on lap 66. Moraes was transported to Saiseikai Hospital in Mito and later released.

Starting tenth in the 25-driver field, Sato was patient early in the 200-lap contest and charged back to be the highest finishing Japanese driver at the checkered flag. The seven-year Formula One veteran battled wheel-to-wheel with many top contenders including Marco Andretti at the finish to the delight of his Japanese fans. Helio Castroneves won the race.

Sato, an IZOD IndyCar Series rookie, was impressive in passing at least seven drivers in difficult racing conditions. The hot temperatures made for a very slick racing surface that had passing extremely hard. Sato's adoring crowd was thrilled following the race when he climbed the Turn One catch fence to salute more than 2,500 spectators in the special Sato grandstand.

Viso, who recorded his best 2010 oval qualifying performance on Saturday in eighth, also darted through the field on numerous occasions in the 300-mile feature, but the popular Venezuelan driver had to settle for 15th. Viso's No. 8 PDVSA—KV Racing Technology Honda/Dallara/Firestone entry exchanged positions with several in the top ten including Sato before the final pit stop in the 200-lap event.

Moraes, who placed fifth last year at Motegi, drove the No. 32 KV Racing Technology Honda/Dallara/Firestone machine from 20th to 13th position in the first ten laps Sunday. The 21-year-old racer looked to be on a strong run before the incident on lap 66.

DRIVER QUOTES:

TAKUMA SATO, #5 LOTUS - KV RACING TECHNOLOGY HONDA/DALLARA/FIRESTONE, Finished 12th: "It was a tough race but a great result in the end for the Lotus – KV team. It was a difficult start with the tight pack and the slippery track. I needed to be patient, but I did a lot of overtaking today. That was great fun. I had Nick (Harvey) as my spotter and we worked well together. We lost a few places in the middle of the race, but we always fought back to gain positions. Overall, it was a great achievement for the whole team, and I want to thank them for everything they have done this weekend. Finally, I want to thank all the fans for their tremendous support."

E.J. VISO, #8 PDVSA — KV RACING TECHNOLOGY HONDA/DALLARA/FIRESTONE, Finished 15th: "I thought we had a good car today. We had some trouble in the middle of the race and we lost spots. We have been working well with the engineers to get a car to run with the leaders. I think that is possible on a regular basis. Our PDVSA – KV car has been very good on the ovals this year. So I am really looking forward to the Homestead race in two weeks. That is home for me. So I am very excited to race there again."

KV Racing Technology put in a sensational team effort at Twin Ring Motegi Saturday and scored two Top Ten positions in qualifications with E.J. Viso and Japanese star Takuma Sato starting eighth and tenth for Sunday's Indy Japan 300.

Viso, driving the No. 8 PDVSA — KV Racing Technology Honda/Dallara/Firestone car, recorded his best oval qualifying performance of the year with a fourth row starting spot in the 300-mile event on the fast 1.5-mile oval track north of Tokyo. The 25-year-old Venezuelan recorded a two-lap average of 199.487 miles per hour to lead the three-car KVRT contingent in the next to last round of the 17-race IZOD IndyCar Series.

Sato and his Lotus—KVRT squad were a remarkable story Saturday at Twin Ring Motegi.

The seven-year Formula One star makes his Motegi debut Sunday, but Saturday started rocky for the 33-year-old IndyCar rookie. A part failure early in Saturday morning practice caused Sato and his machine to spin and slide into the Turn One wall. The KVRT crew, with co-owner Jimmy Vasser also pitching in to assist in the repairs, forged a tremendous effort in the garage area to rebuild the No. 5 Lotus—KVRT Honda/Dallara/Firestone in time to collect 27 laps in the afternoon practice session.

For qualifying, Sato had the home crowd on their feet with a two-lap average of 199.191 m.p.h. taking the fifth row starting position in the 25-driver field. The Tokyo native is the fastest Japanese driver this weekend at Motegi.

Helio Castroneves won the Motegi pole position in a Team Penske 1-2-3 qualifying sweep. Sunday's Indy Japan 300 will start at 1 p.m. Japanese time and will be televised at 11 p.m. EDT Saturday on the Versus Network in North America.

Young Brazilian driver Mario Moraes will start 20th in the No. 32 KV Racing Technology Honda/Dallara/Firestone car with a speed of 196.460 m.p.h.

DRIVER QUOTES:

E.J. VISO -- #8 PDVSA – KV RACING TECHNOLOGY HONDA/DALLARA/FIRESTONE: "We have been strong all day in practice and qualifying. I am happy with the improvements we have done on the PDVSA – KV Racing car. I worked with Takuma to help him on the setup and he had a good qualifying as well. We are now in a strong position for Sunday's race here at Motegi. We have had a good race car on the oval tracks this year, so I expect to be very good for the race. This track has such different turns. Turns One and Two are flat on the throttle and Turns Three and Four are much more difficult for a driver. You really have to work with roll bars and the weight jacker to adjust the car through the tighter Turns Three and Four. I feel good going into the Motegi race."

TAKUMA SATO -- #5 LOTUS – KV RACING TECHNOLOGY HONDA/DALLARA/FIRESTONE: "I think KV Racing Technology won the day. It's a great result for the whole team. After we had such a difficult situation in the morning, the whole team, crew members from all three cars, came together to work on my car. I really appreciate all the mechanics and everything they did. It was a great job. Even though I only ran a few laps during the second practice, I want to thank the engineers for giving me a car that gave me the confidence to attack the most challenging oval in the series during my qualifying run. I also have to thank the fans. They are really behind me. The next step is to review all the data from today and hopefully we will have a good race tomorrow."

Takuma Sato has been keeping a pace similar to his 230-mile per hour IndyCar for the past two weeks in Japan.

Sato, the seven-year Formula One veteran, will make his first Japanese racing performance in three years this Sunday in the Indy Japan 300 at the fast Twin Ring Motegi 1.5-mile oval.

But the 33-year-old Tokyo native has been in high demand off the track with a variety of appearances in his native country.

Taku's last competition in Japan was at Fuji Speedway on September 30, 2007, so his enthusiastic fans and sponsors are anxious to see him behind the wheel of the #5 Lotus—KV Racing Technology Honda/Dallara/Firestone entry.

From his Denver home, Sato left for Tokyo on Sept. 7 and hasn't slowed down since his arrival.

Sato has already made six day appearances in Japan including autograph sessions, media conferences, dealer visits and two Research & Development ride and drive programmes.

On Friday at the track this week, a huge contingent of Taku fans are scheduled to meet the driving star at the Twin Ring Motegi circuit for a 'special student and fan day'.

On Saturday and Sunday, Sato will be appearing on numerous television and radio shows and visiting with guests of his Japanese sponsors before the 300-mile race.

"It will be a very busy weekend at Motegi," he said. "I knew this race would be a big one when I came to the IZOD IndyCar Series. It will be fun to race in front of the home fans. I look forward to the entire experience of the race and the event."

Japanese racing star Takuma Sato returns to his native Japan on Sept. 18-19 to race in the highly–competitive IZOD IndyCar Series at the Twin Ring Motegi 1.5-mile oval track in the Indy Japan 300.

Sato, a seven-year Formula One veteran, will make his IndyCar debut at the Motegi oval circuit in front of a large contingent of enthusiastic fans when he drives the No. 5 Lotus—KV Racing Technology Honda/Dallara/Firestone entry. It will be Sato's first competition in his homeland since the 2007 Japanese Formula One Grand Prix at Fuji. Sato (left) competed at six F-1 events in Japan (2002-2007).

Sato, who'll be joined by Mario Moraes and E.J. Viso in the KV Racing Technology three-driver operation at Motegi, is a rookie on the 17-race IZOD IndyCar Series campaign in 2010 as well as a novice at the high-speed oval racing. Despite being new to oval track competition, Sato has put in several impressive drives at the oval circuits including running as high as fifth in his oval debut at Kansas, sixth at the Indianapolis 500 and third at Iowa. He has qualified in the top-12 in oval tracks on four occasions in 2010.

Sato is no stranger to Twin Ring Motegi, having driven a Honda Formula One car at both the road circuit and the oval track in demonstration runs in previous years. In addition, Sato's Formula One car is on display at the Twin Ring Motegi Collection Museum.

Moraes, the youngest regular on the IZOD IndyCar Series at age 21, comes back to Motegi this year following a sensational performance last year when he drove KV Racing Technology Honda/Dallara/Firestone car to the front row in qualifying. After starting second, Moraes drove to fifth place in the 300-mile feature.

The Brazilian is seeking a podium finish this year in the No. 32 KV Racing Technology machine when the green flag drops at 11 p.m. (EDT) on Saturday (Sept. 18). The Indy Japan 300 begins in Japan at 1 p.m. Sunday (Sept. 19).

Viso, driving the No. 8 PDVSA—KV Racing Technology Honda/Dallara/Firestone car, has been impressive on oval tracks in 2010 including scoring his career-best third place at Iowa in June. The personable 25-year-old Venezuelan has been a charger on the oval tracks including passing eleven cars at Kansas, sixteen cars at Iowa, eleven at Texas and eleven at Chicagoland. Viso made his Twin Ring Motegi debut last year and finished 15th.

The Indy Japan 300 is the 16th round of the 17-event IZOD IndyCar Series.

DRIVER QUOTES:

MARIO MORAES – No. 32 KV RACING TECHNOLOGY HONDA/DALLARA/FIRESTONE: "I am excited to be going back to Motegi. Last year I had a great qualifying, just missing out on pole to (Scott) Dixon. The race didn't quite go to plan, but KV Racing Technology gave me a good car and we had a good race strategy. I was able to finish fifth. I like this track a lot because you can go flat through turns one and two. But you need to have balance in the car for turns three and four. So the Motegi track is exciting to drive."

E.J. VISO, #8 PDVSA — KV RACING TECHNOLOGY HONDA/DALLARA/FIRESTONE: "The Motegi track is a beautiful place and different from other ovals because its not symmetrical which makes it fun to drive. I am excited to be going to back for a second time. KV Racing Technology has given me a good car on ovals this year, so I'm expecting a good result. I also really enjoy visiting Japan. I like how respectful the Japanese are and I admire their culture. I believe we can all learn something from it."

TAKUMA SATO, #5 LOTUS - KV RACING TECHNOLOGY HONDA/DALLARA/FIRESTONE: "Well, first of all, I am so excited to be racing back here in Japan in front of my loyal fans for the first time in three years. They are giving me so much great support as always and I am really looking forward to giving them a memorable weekend's racing at Motegi. Obviously, I have had a tough season, as everyone can see, but I am actually very positive that although the learning curve has been a steep one, I have learned many useful lessons that I will bring to this week's race. I know that my fans have been waiting for a good result, and I thank them for their patience. Twin Ring Motegi is well known for being a very challenging track and is totally unique in being the only oval that needs a lift and downshifting, so I can't wait to get started there on Friday."

Takuma Sato endured a disappointing run in the latest round of the IndyCar Series after being forced to retire on the opening lap of Saturday night's Kentucky Indy 300.

The former F1 race was chasing his first oval top-ten in the race having shown impressive speed during his debut season at the wheel of the #5 Lotus-KV Racing Technology entry.

Taku qualified in 14th place at the high-speed 1.5-mile oval but his hopes of a top ten finish were ended prematurely when the Japanese racer slid into the wall on the opening lap and was forced to retire.

Taku will now seek to put the disappointment behind him as he turns his focus to his home round of the season at the Twin Ring Motegi on 19 September.

"The race started well and my car felt good. But then suddenly the back end came around in turn three," he said. "The car started to slide so quickly and I couldn't do anything at that point.

"It is obviously very disappointing as we were trying to carry good momentum into Motegi."

Mario Moraes drove the No. 32 KV Racing Technology Honda/Dallara/Firestone entry to 18th position Saturday night in the Kentucky Indy 300 at the fast 1.5-mile Kentucky Speedway oval.

Moraes, who started a season-high seventh at the drop of the green flag, raced with the lead pack for the early portion of the 200-lap feature, the 15th round of the 17-race IZOD IndyCar Series. The 21-year-old Brazilian driver looked to be in a solid spot for a challenge in the second half of the race.

However, Moraes, still seeking a top-ten position in the final season point standings, lost a lap to the leaders in the middle stage of the event. Mario fought his way back to the lead lap, but couldn't advance into the top-ten.

Moraes' teammates, E.J. Viso and Takuma Sato, suffered early exits from the Kentucky event.

Viso, who passed six cars at the start of the race, was making his usual charge towards the front of the field when he was forced to pit on lap 46 with a part failure in the car's right rear suspension. Viso, driving the No. 8 PDVSA—KV Racing Technology Honda/Dallara/Firestone car, was credited with 26th spot.

Sato, who qualified 14th in the No. 5 Lotus — KV Racing Technology Honda/Dallara/Firestone entry, was making his initial showing at Kentucky Speedway. The Japanese driver was knocked out of the race on the opening lap and finished 27th Saturday.

The KV Racing Technology operation returns to its Indianapolis headquarters this week to prepare for the overseas trip to Japan. The three-car team must coordinate all of the cars and equipment for departure this Thursday for the Sept. 18-19 race at the Twin Ring Motegi motorsports facility north of Tokyo.

KV NOTES: Sato, preparing for the upcoming Motegi race, participated in variety of promotional events surrounding the Japan round of the IZOD IndyCar Series… Takuma taped several video presentations as well as magazine and newspaper interviews to run prior to the Indy Japan 300… In fact, Sato leaves Monday (Sept. 6) for Tokyo to begin an intense round of sponsor and media activities throughout Japan leading up to the Sept. 18-19 weekend… Sato will have a huge contingent of fans attending the Motegi event… Viso will also be in Japan early for promotions including attending the Tokyo Giants baseball game on Sept. 12 at the Tokyo Dome as a guest of one of his sponsors, Arai… Several baseball players from Venezuela compete in Japan and will visit with Viso during his stay.

DRIVER QUOTES:

E.J. VISO, #8 PDVSA — KV RACING TECHNOLOGY HONDA/DALLARA/FIRESTONE, Finished 26th: "At the beginning, the car didn't feel just right. But I kept passing cars in the early portion of the race. The crew noticed that we had high pressures in the tires and the car didn't seem to be pulling as usual. So I pulled into the pits. The team noticed we had a part failure in the right rear of the car. That is very unusual. But it was out of our control. It is a tough way to finish the night. I thought we would have a good race car."

TAKUMA SATO, #5 LOTUS - KV RACING TECHNOLOGY HONDA/DALLARA/FIRESTONE, Finished 27th: "The race started well and my car felt good. But then suddenly the back end came around in Turn 3. The car started to slide so quickly and I couldn't do anything at that point. It is obviously very disappointing as we were trying to carry good momentum into Motegi (the next race on Sept. 19)."