Holden puts its support behind V8 SuperTourers
Wednesday 15 February 2012, 3:35PM
By V8 Supertourers New Zealand
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Holden New Zealand is pleased to announce its support for New Zealand’s new premier Motorsport Series - the V8 SuperTourers.
As part of its commitment, Holden New Zealand has contributed a parts package to each of the Holden teams to get them up and running for the new Series which begins on 18 February at Hampton Downs.
Designed and built by Paul Ceprnich, of Pace Innovations Australia, the V8 SuperTourer chassis forms the basis of a future-proofed V8 touring car, similar in concept to a current Australian V8 Supercar, but at less than half the cost.
Holden New Zealand Managing Director, Jeff Murray, said that this new competition would see some incredible racing.
“These cars are very fast but ultimately I think it could come down to how good the drivers are and that makes for some very exciting racing”, Mr Murray said.
“This Series will provide Kiwis the chance to get up close and personal with their favourite drivers on a more regular basis, we are very happy to be a part of an operation that brings this type of racing to New Zealand.”
The V8 SuperTourer is based on a monocoque chassis like the Australian V8 Supercar car of the future and built to accommodate the current VE Commodore or any other similar sized four-door production vehicle.
The car is powered by a strictly-controlled, one make, all-alloy, fuel injected and dry sumped 7-litre V8ST engine, that is unique to New Zealand.
The power-plant is derived from the Le Mans programme and hand-built in America to deliver some 550hp at 6,800rpm with an expected racing life of 10,000 racing kilometres before requiring maintenance.
V8 SuperTourers CEO, Paul Radisich, believes the support of manufacturers like Holden is integral to the success of the new Series. “The Holden brand is synonymous with V8 racing in Australasia and for any fledging new series, it is a big deal to have support of a brand of that size and scope. V8 SuperTourers will provide a unique platform for Holden to market and promote its latest models in New Zealand and it is genuinely great to have them on board as interest in the series reaches new heights.”
Holden New Zealand Marketing Communications & Sponsorship Manager, Marnie Samphier, said there has been so much talk surrounding this new Series – and it didn’t take much convincing to get involved.
“As well as providing practical support for the teams, we are thrilled to be able to help promote the V8 SuperTourers and we look forward to keeping fans up to date with race info and behind-the-scenes insights through the Holden Facebook site and our regular eNewsletters,” Ms Samphier said.