Prototype racing in Australia has undergone a revamp with the launch of the Australian Prototype Series (APS).

The series is an evolution of the Sports Racer Series with the category set to cater for open top Le Mans-style prototype sportscars.

Organisers have confirmed the APS will feature three classes with CN prototypes now eligible to compete alongside Radicals, West Sportscars and Formula 1000 open wheelers.

CN Prototypes have featured in international categories such as the Asian Le Mans Series, French-based V de V series and the new Creventic 24H Proto Series.

There are no provisions to include LMP3 machinery at this stage to follow in the footsteps of the British Prototype Cup series.

The series has confirmed a five-round calendar on the Shannons Nationals program, which includes Sandown, Winton, Sydney Motorsport Park, Queensland Raceway, and Phillip Island.

Kumho Tyres has also been confirmed as the official tyre supplier and category sponsor.

“This evolution of what was the Australian Sports Racer Series is an important step to growing this segment of the sport in Australia,” said category spokesman Liam Curkpatrick.

“The new owners are broadening the eligibility list and opening the category up to even more cars and more competitors with a very inclusive approach to the competition.

“Sports prototype racing is booming around the world which this series will aim to capitalise on and grow as a place where competitors and fans alike can enjoy these exciting cars.

“We’re expecting a very diverse grid of CN Prototypes, Sports Racers, Radicals and F1000s this year.”

New team SYNEP Racing has confirmed the addition of two Wolf Racing Cars CN Prototypes to the series, with both expected on the grid at round one this year.

Sandown will host the opening round of the series from April 7-9.