The series formerly known as Formula Renault 3.5 has been given a slight name change with the launch of a new website ahead of its first year without manufacturer backing.
Renault confirmed last year that it would be withdrawing its backing of the series after ten years, handing promotion and organizational duties over to RPM Racing.
The series was planned to be called ‘Formula 3.5 V8’, but following the launch of its new website on Tuesday, it is now being branded as ‘Formula V8 3.5’ - which probably will become shortened by most to Formula V8.
Formula V8 3.5 currently has six drivers signed up for its inaugural season. 2015 Formula Renault 3.5 runner-up Matthieu Vaxiviere will continue in the series with Spirit of Race alongside Russian youngster Vladimir Atoev.
Egor Orudzhev (Arden), Louis Deletraz (Fortec), Alfonso Celis Jr. and Tom Dillmann (both AVF) will all continue in the championship in 2016.
Formula Renault 3.5 established itself as one of the leading feeder series for Formula 1 during its ten-year run, producing drivers such as Sebastian Vettel, Daniel Ricciardo, Kevin Magnussen and Carlos Sainz Jr.
Although the loss of Renault’s backing has raised concerns about the future of the 3.5 litre series, the field is poised to remain full of young talents battling to forge a path towards F1.