Shell Helix has become the Australian Formula Ford Series’ official engine oil supplier under a deal which will also see the oil giant paying out $500 prize money per round.

All cars will run Shell Helix Ultra free of charge in 2017, with supply by Shell’s Australian distributor Viva Energy.

The cash prize money will be awarded according to various criteria throughout the six-round season, such as fastest lap, best-placed rookie, and Kent class winner.

“The Shell brand is world famous for motorsport involvement and Viva Energy’s support of Australian Formula Ford is a real bonus,” said category manager Phil Marrinon.

“The introduction of a ‘voucher’ concept really helps the drivers and teams entering the competition and gives the rookies extra incentive and exposure if they win.”

The announcement comes on the eve of Shell’s return as a full-time sponsor of DJR Team Penske through its V-Power fuel brand in the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship.

Australian Formula Ford will continue to run predominantly at state meetings in 2017, starting this weekend at Sandown, but will also return to the Supercars undercard at Winton from May 19-21.

See below for a breakdown of prize money on offer at each round.

Formula Ford Series 2017 Calendar

Round 1 – Sandown – $250 for pole position, $250 for fastest race lap
Round 2 – Wakefield Park – $250 for pole position, $250 for best-placed privateer
Round 3 – Winton – $250 for best-placed rookie, $250 for Kent winner
Round 4 – Queensland Raceway – $250 for best-placed rookie, $250 for Kent winner
Round 5 – Sydney Motorsport Park – $250 for best-placed rookie, $250 for Kent winner
Round 6 – Phillip Island – $500 for round winner