Chevrolet on Tuesday at Daytona International Speedway revealed the first of Grand-Am's third-generation Rolex Series Daytona Prototypes.

The new cars might not turn out to be much quicker than their predecessors - DPs retain most of the existing suspension, drivetrain and electronics--but most observers should find them more visually appealing. The Corvette DP takes advantage of new regulations allowing for "more potential for brand character and design." Highlights of the new rules include a smaller greenhouse, a more upright nose and a higher tail.

The Corvette Daytona Prototype is scheduled to test at Daytona on Nov. 16, with Corvette Racing's American Le Mans Series drivers Oliver Gavin and Antonio García sharing duty in a car fielded by the Spirit of Daytona Racing team. The car's competitive debut is slated for the Rolex 24 at the same track Jan. 28-29. Four teams will campaign the car in 2012: Spirit of Daytona (one car), SunTrust Racing (one), Gainsco/Bob Stallings Racing (one) and Action Express Racing (two).

"Racing and performance are the founding principles of Chevrolet...