LAS VEGAS, Nov. 29--Autodesk, Inc., the leader in cloud-based design and engineering software, and INDYCAR, the auto racing sanctioning body behind such famed events as the Indianapolis 500, have signed a three-year technology partnership.

The partnership will provide broad access to Autodesk software offerings, including Autodesk Product Design Suite, Autodesk Simulation 360, Autodesk Entertainment Creation Suite and Autodesk PLM 360, to IZOD IndyCar Series teams and drivers that compete in the fastest and most diverse racing series in the world.

“INDYCAR’s technological heritage dates to the use of the first rearview mirror on an automobile during the inaugural Indianapolis 500 in 1911,” said Greg Gruning, executive vice president, Corporate Business Development at INDYCAR. “Our partnership with Autodesk is a 21^st century technology collaboration that gives INDYCAR new opportunities to improve our sport both on and off the racetrack in the near and long term.”

Increased role for Autodesk 3D Software

INDYCAR’s engineering and operations group will use Digital Prototyping applications such as Autodesk Inventor 3D CAD software to design and engineer product innovations for chassis designs, parts and components. The group also plans to employ the cloud-based optimization power of Autodesk Simulation 360 to digitally simulate the performance impact of design changes before they are added to the race cars.

This capability will better enable the organization to come up with aerodynamic specifications for components that all race teams can agree upon -- reducing any advantages or disadvantages among teams and creating a more competitive and exciting racing environment.

INDYCAR already employs Autodesk software within its operations for a variety of important functions. For example, the organization uses AutoCAD software to create detailed garage layouts before each event, which helps improve the logistics of load-in and load-out at venues. Additionally, the detailed drawings that are used for sled crash tests -- which play a critical role in improving driver safety -- are prepared with AutoCAD.

“Gaining full access to our product portfolio will let INDYCAR take advantage of all that we have to offer, from the desktop to the cloud,” said Brenda Discher, vice president, Manufacturing Industry Strategy and Marketing at Autodesk. “Like INDYCAR, we are always keeping an eye on the road ahead, and we look forward to being part of their continued track record of success.”

About INDYCAR

INDYCAR was formed in 1994 to preserve the heritage and excitement of the Indianapolis 500 in U.S. open-wheel racing. INDYCAR is the governing body of the IZOD IndyCar Series, the premier open-wheel racing series in North America; Firestone Indy Lights, which serves as an essential stepping stone for drivers and teams striving to reach the IZOD IndyCar Series; the Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear, which serves as the middle rung on the Mazda Road to Indy development program, and Cooper Tires presents the USF2000 National Championship, the entry level to the ladder system. INDYCAR events are available to a worldwide audience through a variety of multimedia platforms, highlighted by long-term and broad-reaching partnerships with ABC and the NBC Sports Network. INDYCAR is continually at the forefront of motorsports innovation with drivers, teams and tracks benefiting from safety and technological improvements such as the SAFER Barrier, SWEMS wheel tethers, chassis enhancements, high-definition in-car cameras and E85 fuel.

About the IZOD IndyCar Series

The IZOD IndyCar Series is the premier open-wheel series in North America, competing on a challenging combination of superspeedways, short ovals, undulating road courses and temporary street circuits. In 2013 the IZOD IndyCar Series will conduct 19 races in the United States, Canada and Brazil -- all available in high-definition worldwide through comprehensive, long-term agreements with ABC, the NBC Sports Network, ESPN International and TV Bandeirantes. The IZOD IndyCar Series continues to be the fastest, most diverse and most competitive racing series that features an international cast of star drivers and venues. It also is the leader in motorsports technology and safety. For more information on the IZOD IndyCar Series, visit www.indycar.com.

About Autodesk University

Now in its 20th year, Autodesk University is the annual series of Autodesk in-person and virtual user conferences, which include the flagship Autodesk University event in Las Vegas, as well as international events including Autodesk University Japan, Brazil, Russia, Germany and China. Associated online content is available through Autodesk University Virtual. The 2012 events will bring together over 70,000 designers, engineers, architects and digital artists to Learn, Connect and Explore. More information is available at the Autodesk University Web site.

About Autodesk

Autodesk, Inc., is a leader in 3D design, engineering and entertainment software. Customers across the manufacturing, architecture, building, construction, and media and entertainment industries -- including the last 17 Academy Award winners for Best Visual Effects -- use Autodesk software to design, visualize and simulate their ideas. Since its introduction of AutoCAD software in 1982, Autodesk continues to develop the broadest portfolio of state-of-the-art software for global markets. For additional information about Autodesk, visit www.autodesk.com.

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Source: Autodesk