McLaren previews MP4-12C GT3 racer [video]

As anticipated by last months spy photos, McLaren has announced plans to team up with CRS Racing to develop the new MP4-12C GT3.

Details are limited, but "CRS Racing will build, sell and support the 12C GT3 cars in close collaboration with McLaren." Furthermore, as part of the car's development, McLaren will compete in a limited number of races in 2011.

According to Martin Whitmarsh, Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Team Principal, "Racing is in our blood - it was natural to develop a GT3 car alongside the 12C road car. We have a legendary history in global motorsport, including GT racing, and we aim to maintain that reputation with this GT3 program, and any future sports car projects that may evolve."

The first fully-developed cars are expected to compete in the 2012 European FIA GT3 Series and will be offered to private racing teams at a "competitive price."