He has won a lower tier series (Super Formula 2011). Grants someone an automatic license (same as winning GP3, GP2, British/Euro F3, WSBR 2.0)

Don't superlicenses have to be renewed every few years?

The complete application must be received by the FIA
at least 14 days before scrutineering for the first FIA Formula
One World Championship event in which the candidate is to
compete. In the case of a driver change in the Championship
for reasons of force majeure, the FIA may accept applications
up to 48 hours before the start of initial scrutineering for the
event.

The Super Licence will be valid to the end of the year of issue

Who's next? Ammermueler signs with Marussia? Bertrand Baguette signs with STR? Alex Premat signs with Sauber?

Calling Super Formula "lower tier" is an even bigger insult to Indycar. IIRC, they are the 2nd fastest racing cars in the world (after F1). Correct me if I'm wrong plz.

I'm more worried for Ericsson than for Lotterer TBH. Lotterer is not there to prove himself, why would he do that? He is there to give feedback to the team. He's been a works driver in several series for Toyota and now most recently for Audi. Caterham is in such bad shape it isn't even funny, they have to think outside the box here. Ericsson contract is too watertight, so they ditch Koba for one single race for another driver, on a very demanding (excellent test) circuit, who has driven more miles at Spa than any other driver on the grid probably.

Why the hell not?

Ericsson needn't worry. He clearly has the money as kobay went.

so lotterer is really going to race?

remember one german driver tied with a german sportscar team that made his debut in a green car at spa

Hope it doesn't turn out in a disaster.

tbh, it will be a bit like placing Badoer in the Ferrari a few years ago.