Needless plans were revealed on Monday for a second "Grand Prix standard" circuit in India, with a consortium of companies revealing that they are working on a masterplan for a new track in the Mumbai area of the country.
The new circuit is the result of a partnership between the Capita Symonds design firm and the Populous architects company, along with Delhi Integrated Multi Modal Transit System Ltd.
Mumbai's push for a Formula One-standard racetrack comes as India prepares to host it's first-ever F1 race this weekend at the new Buddh International Circuit near Delhi.
Precisely why India needs a second Formula One track is unclear, but the plans appear to be well-backed.
The three companies have been chosen by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation to prepare a "masterplan and business case" for a second GP-spec track in Mumbai.
Although the plans are still at a preliminary stage, the announcement stated that the track will be built "to meet the highest level of Grand Prix standards".
The F1 track plan is part of a huge regeneration project for the region.
"We are committed to delivering the next generation of racing circuits, with great racing, over-taking, world class facilities and architecture," bragged Capita Symonds development director Jerry Muscroft.
"But above all the intention is to create a sustainable venue that will not need continuous financial support, and will facilitate investment and re-generation."
Populous architect John Rhodes added: "This is an exciting opportunity to create a very special circuit and facility in Mumbai and India as well as a development that will help bring diverse investment."
Both Capita Symonds and Populous have previously worked on a range of sporting venues, including the 2012 London Olympics site and the recent renovation of Silverstone.
The statement confirmed that the project would include plans for "commercial, retail, leisure and residential properties" around the new track.
The partnership would also look at improving transport links in the area.
How this new track would fit into the F1 calendar is unclear. The Buddh circuit has signed a 10-year deal with Bernie Ecclestone to host the Indian GP from 2011.
And recently, Ecclestone has suggested that the sport would seek to move away from allowing countries to host two races in a year.
However, recent reports have suggested that a deal will be unveiled for a new event in New Jersey from 2013, meaning that there will be two US-based races on the calendar.
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