Andy Rouse Q&A

We believe the timing is perfect for this new product. British motorsport fans are hungry for quality motorsport action, but don't currently have the right product to support. SCV8 provides extremely cost-effective competition that will attract quality star drivers and provide the right platform for attracting the necessary support. The series has been written with today's financial and competitive leisure market in mind. In addition, around the globe the V8 RWD concept is growing in interest as can now be seen on our UK TV screens.



Firstly, we are only asking manufacturers for acceptance of the concept, use of their model body shell and branding etc, not entry or any financial commitment. Initial reaction from manufacturers has been extremely positive in this area and as we secure acceptance, announcements will be made accordingly. We are shortly to announce the first two to three brands and we are only seeking five for year one to produce our targeted 20-car grid.

The concept will work with less, as we have seen in the Aussie V8 and DTM series. For manufacturers this is a no-cost brand awareness opportunity for models not currently seen in any promoted UK motorsport programme. We are currently witnessing a huge culture change in our industry and the use of neutral and/or branded race engines and chassis is becoming a common part of our International scene. We are not inviting manufacturers to enter. However, if they wish to use the series as a marketing tool then we would welcome their involvement.



SCV8 Supercars is aimed at drivers that have either competed at a National level in formulas such as Formula Ford, Formula Renault and F3 where SCV8 can provide the next level in their career path with big-engine, rear-wheel drive, limited grip driving technique. Also British and International drivers that have been competing in overseas events, sportscar drivers that have currently no affordable product available to them and, finally, a new growing addition, motorcycle riders at international level that wish to move on to four-wheel competition. The concept will suit all of the above. It is a specification not currently available at affordable costs and therefore will not affect any current promoted series.



No, the BTCC is aimed at manufacturer-based teams to promote their lower-horsepower, production-based products. The SCV8 cars are produced as racecars and are completely remote from the BTCC regulations and are entered by engineering-based race teams. With some 10 events planned each year together with 10 TOCATour events, there is ample room for just 20 promoted events at the 10 recognised circuits of the UK with a non-conflicting calendar. This opportunity also provides the missing market competition to keep our industry products alive!



We welcome the industry's initiative to introduce a long overdue structure to UK motorsport. Early discussions with the MSA show that they welcome new initiatives to improve the sport further and that the Open Level 2 category of Saloons is likely to be the selected route.



An extremely significant budget has been allocated to produce what will be one of the most dramatic motorsport programmes ever seen at National level. This is the key to successful broadcast airtime. Negotiations are in place and details will be announced.