Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit is out today, so EA found it the proper occassion to announce the next entry in the blockbuster racing franchise. Need for Speed SHIFT 2 Unleashed is currently in development at Slightly Mad Studios.

“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.”

SHIFT 2 Unleashed will include a new rendering engine for better visuals, a new helmet camera view promising to “simulate the physical experience of driving at 200mph,” night racing, car and track damage, and Need for Speed Autolog integration — allowing players to connect and compete in online races.

The game’s out in Spring 2011 for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and PC. Check out the debut trailer below.