Vauxhall to run two cars in '07

The team have run three cars since 2003 but they have decided to run two because of a rule change for this year which meant only two drivers could score manufacturers' points.

The team have retained their lead drivers for a second year in a bid to start the new season in a strong position.

Team boss Ian Harrison said: "One of the things we felt we missed this year was continuity. Changing the whole team cost us at the start of the season and we didn't want to go through that again."

Giovanardi took two wins in the latter stages of 2006, and the Italian is hoping that his previous experience of Super 2000 cars in the World Touring Car Championship will help the team adapt to the new regulations.

"I have gelled with the team now, and there will be lots of advantages for us next year," he said. "From the beginning I will try to explain what is better for our car to avoid losing time."

Chilton will be chasing his first win for the manufacturer next year, and he feels that the team will be strong from the start of next season.

"2006 was a year of big change, but there will be no mucking around next year," he said. "When we go out testing we'll be working like clockwork, and we're all capable of winning."

Vauxhall was the dominant manufacturer for the majority of the BTC-spec era from 2001 to 2006, but the team now have to work towards racing to the new Super 2000 rules for the first time next year.