Rob Austin brings Audi back to BTCC

The team has commissioned GPR Motorsport to build two A4s to the NGTC rules package that will come into force in 2011, and has released an artist's impression of what the machines will look like.

"This is a great step for us and a fantastic challenge," said Austin, whose team has previously been a frontrunner in the Ginetta G20 and G50 Cups and in the GT4 class of the British GT Championship.

"We are convinced that the NGTC concept is going to make the BTCC even more competitive and exciting that the Audi will be a race-winner."

Austin, a British Formula 3 race-winner, has not named any drivers for the programme. He expects to take delivery of the cars in March.

Audi machinery won the 1996 BTCC title with Frank Biela at the wheel of a works A4. The German marque last appeared in the championship in '98 with Yvan Muller and John Bintcliffe driving.