Videogamer.com has posted their interview with Suzi Wallace, Producer of Need for Speed Shift.
Quote:
Videogamer.com: "What led to the decision to split Need for Speed into three different directions?"
Suzi Wallace: "It was EA's decision to do that! You're going to have to speak to someone at EA about that. We're still an independent studio. Personally, speaking from a studio point of view, we think it's a good idea. Having one game to cater for racing gamers, you'll never be able to please everyone, so we think it's good to be able to separate it off and, for us, concentrate on the people who like a more realistic racer. We welcome that opportunity."