German race circuit designer Hermann Tilke, along with American architectural firm HKS, will collaborate on the construction of the new Austin Grand Prix circuit in Texas, USA.
The purpose-built track will stage the US event from 2012, when Formula One racing returns to the country for the first time in five years.
Initial plans have been released, with the 3.4-mile Austin track combining 133 feet of elevation change and 20 turns.
The circuit’s master plan also features additional visitor attractions including a proposed driving/riding experience and seminar building, motorsports driving club, kart track and welcome centre.
Chairman of the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix Tavo Hellmund said that the HKS and Tilke combination has set the project off on the right foot.
“Never before has a cast been assembled in motorsports history that has the combined wealth of experience and knowledge that HKS and Tilke bring to this project,” said.
“Having industry leaders in sports facility architecture and design raises the bar for future motorsports facilities in this country and around the world.
“We are pleased that a collaboration of this calibre will take place in Texas.”
HKS has more than 50 years’ experience of designing sports venues. The Dallas-based company’s past projects includes Rio de Janeiro’s Estadio Maracana, Acapulco’s Mextenis and Torreon Mexico’s Estadio Corona.
“We are extremely energised about our role in bringing the Formula 1 United States venue to life,” said HKS principal Mark Williams.
“We are honoured to work with Tilke, a global leader in racetrack construction, and the entire Formula 1 United States team. Our design expertise, coupled with this world entity, will result in a destination environment that will elevate the face of Formula 1 United States on a global scale and further enhance one of America’s great cities.”
Tilke has been responsible for the design of numerous racing circuits in recent times. His circuits include the Bahrain International Circuit, Turkey’s Istanbul Park, the Korea International Circuit, Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit, the Shanghai International Circuit in China and Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit.
