The race may have just started for EA’s Need for Speed Hot Pursuit (which launched today), but that hasn’t stopped the publisher from kicking the tires on their next title in the long-running racing franchise. SHIFT 2 Unleashed is a direct follow up to last year’s critically acclaimed Need for Speed SHIFT, and will add a host of new features to the franchise’s formula, including an all-new rendering engine, and what EA is calling the “next generation” of the Need for Speed Autolog network that was just introduced in Hot Pursuit.

“SHIFT 2 Unleashed is redefining immersive racing by blending the rush of tearing up the track at unbelievable speeds with the emotional experience of competitive battle,” said Marcus Nilsson, Executive Producer, SHIFT 2 Unleashed. “We are also working closely with real-world performance drivers to ensure that Shift 2 Unleashed captures their experience and becomes the benchmark in authentic racing action.”

Currently in development at Slightly Mad Studios, SHIFT 2 Unleashed will release on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC next spring. You can check out the debut trailer right here.

via EA