May 12 (GMM) The new car to be raced in the next A1 GP series later this year is based on Ferrari's ultra-successful formula one single seater of 2004, the series announced on Monday.

The self-styled 'World Cup of Motorsport' also provided to the media a computer-rendered image of the Ferrari-designed and V8-powered car, which will be tested for the first time at Silverstone on Friday by F1 legend John Watson.

"The chassis is based on the design of the highly successful F2004 chassis", a statement confirmed, referring to the Rory Byrne car that in the hands of Michael Schumacher and Rubens Barrichello won 15 of the 18 grands prix that season.

The A1 GP version will be built in the UK, "with Rory Byrne acting as a consultant", A1 added.