V8 Supercars: Nascar style rolling starts for Melbourne GP

Photo / Edge Photographics

Innovative Nascar-style rolling starts will be introduced for the V8 Supercar races at next month's Australian Grand Prix meeting.

A first for V8 Supercars, the format is set to encourage an attacking start down the long straight at Albert Park into turn one in all four races on the program.

Each race will feature a double-file rolling start while drivers will also line up side-by-side for any safety car restarts across the event.

Drivers won't have a chance to relax in any of the first three races, with a rolling points system deciding the starting grid for each subsequent race and double points on offer in the last race.

V8 Supercars veteran Craig Lowndes, winner of the weekend's Bathurst 12-Hour race, applauded the new system, saying it would lead to more competitive racing.

"Arriving at the first corner after a rolling start is certainly going to be interesting," Lowndes said.

"I think it will be more important than ever to be at the front of the field and out of trouble."

Australian Grand Prix Corporation CEO Andrew Westacott said this year's V8 program would provide more interest to fans and create a unique spectacle.

"There is plenty to look forward to for V8 Supercars fans at this year's event," Westacott said.

"Not only do we have a brand new format, but Volvo has joined existing manufacturers Holden, Ford, Nissan and Mercedes for what is sure to be a gripping season-long battle."

-AAP