Hyundai BTCC team Excelr8 reveals Proctor as first 2020 driver

The Excelr8 operation, which also runs the Mini Challenge UK, joined the BTCC in 2019 running the older-specification MG6 GT cars, which were driven by Rob Smith and Sam Osborne.

Excelr8 announced at the start of November 2019 that it would build up the new Hyundai chassis for '20, and its entry for the upcoming season will mark the first time the South Korean manufacturer has been represented on the modern BTCC grid.

It will field two of the cars in the competition. Proctor, a former Ginetta Junior and Renault UK Clio Cup racer and the son of former BTCC racer Mark, will be entering his fourth season in the BTCC.

He scored his race win in his second campaign in a front-wheel-drive Power Maxed Racing Vauxhall Astra in a wet-but-drying race at Brands Hatch's opening meeting in 2018.

Proctor went on to finish in 12th spot in the standings that season, before making a switch to the rear-wheel-drive BMR Racing Subaru Levorg in 2019.

He took three top-10 finishes last term and ended up in 20th in the drivers' competition.

Speaking about his new deal, Proctor said: "When Excelr8 contacted me back in September about the possibility of leading a new car development for them I have to say I was honoured.

"Having met the team at Excelr8 it was clear that they share the same ambitions as me of one day lifting the BTCC crown and with my past experience of front-wheel drive we can grow together and make this become a reality over the next few seasons.

"But it's one step at a time and we are under no illusion that there will be a lot of hard work ahead for 2020.

"[My target for the season] will be as many top 10 finishes [as possible] and possibly podiums to get the ball rolling."

ExcelR8 team principal Oliver Shepherd said: "[Last season] was a learning year for Excelr8 in BTCC, whereas 2020 is the year where as a team we will show that we are not just in BTCC to make up the numbers.

"Senna joining the team is a massive step towards this aim and we are certain that his raw speed and his experience in BTCC will be key ingredients in helping us to make this step forward.

"We are looking forward to working together with Senna to take the fight to the established teams."

2020 BTCC grid so far