Formula LGB Swift
Formula LGB Swift: is a single seater, open wheel class in motorsport in India launched in 2003. The cars are powered by 1.3 liter Maruti Esteem engines, also used in the Suzuki Swift. This car can be considered as an Indian equivalent of Europe’s Formula Ford series, where it is void of aerodynamic aids like wings. From 2006 this car replaced Formula Maruti as an entry level formula car. This series offers the first feel and insights into open wheel racing for an upcoming race driver
The name LGB denotes L.G.Balakrishnan Brothers, the manufacturers of Rolon Chains and Sprockets.
LGB is the parent company of Super Speeds that designs constructs the cars. Swift is named denoting the engine supplier Maruti Udyog.
The car was originally named just Formula LGB from 2003 till 2005. In 2006 a suffix Swift was added to avoid name confusion with the launch of another Hyundai engined Formula LGB (Formula LGB Hyundai) which was slightly different in layout and design.
Early Version: The car was originally named just Formula LGB from 2003 till 2005 and the engines were the same 1.3 Liter used in Maruti Esteem car but in Carburetor format with Single Over Head Cam design. But the car had 50% more power (65 b.h.p. being its Stock version in carburetor form), than the stock version in race trim.
Current Version: In 2006 season the cars was re-named Formula LGB Swift and the Engine from Maruti Swifts 1.3 litre 16 Valve MPFI engine were refitted. The new engines were left in stock form as the new engines could reach over 90 bhp (67 kW) in stock form. The Engine is mounted in Transverse direction with the stock gearbox as in a front wheel drive car.
Chassis: The Chassis is a Spaceframe monocoque with FRP(Fibre-reinforced plastic) panels, slightly on heavier side, mainly for structural and safety reasons. The space frame is constructed out of square tubes and the tyres are supplied by JK Tyres which are grooved slicks.
Price Formula LGB Swift: The cost to run a season in a team is around 3.5 lakh to 6.5 lakh for one season (€4,450 - €7,700), with 12 races.