Not selecting the GRE has cost the IRL another manufacturer

Spokesman Kevin Kennedy told ThatsRacin.com that Ford considers first-year CEO Randy Bernard a "forward thinker." Although it has made no commitments, Ford has discussed future engine regulations, specifically how they might be used as a platform "that will help speed along automotive technological advances, especially in the area of electrification."

Ford is also interested, Kennedy said, in developing engine formulas "that can be used in multiple race series around the world," [Read that the Global Racing Engine (GRE)] ostensibly to support its large grassroots-racer program.