Vaidyanathan joins MTEC for 2017 TRS season

The 20-year-old will race for MTEC Motorsport alongside Taylor Cockerton, and becomes the second Indian entrant for the 2017 season after Jehan Daruvala.

"I'm looking forward to competing in the Toyota Racing Series to build on what I've learned so far," said Vaidyanathan upon the announcement.

“Both the car and tracks will be unfamiliar territory, but I hope to make good progress and catch up to those with more experience in the field."

The Indian made his debut in formula racing in 2015, in the British Formula 4 alongwith selected rounds in the MSA Formula 4 series. "It was a really busy, yet enjoyable first year of racing," he said.

"There was a lot of information to absorb as everything was new to me, so to end the season with three podium finishes was encouraging."

For 2016, Vaidyanathan raced in the Euroformula Open series alongside selected rounds in the British Formula 3 for Carlin.

"Whilst I only competed in selected rounds [in BF3], it was good to complete the season in EF Open," he said, having also survived a major crash during Oulton Park's BF3 weekend.

"The learning curve was steep, but it was great to have several points finishes along the way, with two rookie podiums to add as well."

The 2017 TRS season kicks-off during January 13-15 weekend at Ruapuna, with rounds in Teretonga, Hampton Downs, Taupo and finale on February 11-12 at Circuit Chris Amon.