Sato, Viso, Lotus Return To KVRT

KV Racing Technology announced yesterday that Takuma Sato and EJ Viso will both return to the squad for the 2011 IndyCar Season. It will be the second year at KVRT for both, and team co-owner Jimmy Vasser hopes that having continuity in the cockpit will help the squad progress. 

Despite a crash-filled season (Sato and Viso were the victims of other's mistakes as often as they were the cause of trouble),  both drivers did get to show occasional glimpes of potential, with Sato, a rookie last year, qualifying well on circuts that he'd never previously seen and Viso notching a career-best third place finish at Iowa. 

“We are very excited to have Taku and E.J. back with us for 2011," Vasser told reporters. "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.”

Vasser also revealed that Lotus, who are planning to join the Indycar Series as an engine and body work (to fit over the 'base' Dallara chassis) manufacturer, are increasing their sponsorship support of the team: A sure sign that KVRT are positioning themselves to be the primary Lotus-shod team come the 2012 spec IndyCar.

Last season KVRT fielded three cars; the third being driven by Mario Moraes. There was no mention of his status at the press conference, or whether KVRT will be cutting back to a two car effort.

Stay tuned for futher developements.