We just reported yesterday that Aston Martin made its entrance on the Chinese market, that seems to be up by 45% in the last nine months over the same period in 2006. Well, Aston Martin does not stop here and is also planing a race series for the, probably, fastest expanding car market in the world at the moment - the Aston Martin Asia Cup or AMAC.
The AMAC - Aston Martin Asia Cup is programmed to start in 2008 and will consist of 12 races throughout the Asia Pacific region including China, Japan, Malaysia and Singapore. Each race in the AMAC series will feature 18 Aston Martin Vantage N24s at the starting line, each powered by a 4.3 liter engine, especially developed for racing conditions.
The engine is based on the V8 from the Aston Martin Vantage.
The AMAC will feature sprints (30 minutes long) and longer endurance races, some of which will 'open' for the Formula One local race. The AMAC service package will include: engineers and technicians, logistical support, hospitality and accommodation, race entry, and a comprehensive spare parts package. Drivers may be able to enter with their own teams, subject to approval by the AMAC series organisers.
Dr Ulrich Bez, Chief Executive Officer, Aston Martin said: "When we announced plans to build the Vantage N24 for customers in 2006 we were very confident it would make a great choice for a one-make series. I am delighted that we are able to announce the Aston Martin Asia Cup for 2008, it will help greatly in communicating our brand values, performance, and product durability in this exciting new market."
The Vantage N24 is built by Aston Martin Racing to 'accommodate' the FIA GT4 regulations. The AMAC race cars are powered by a V8 engine producing 410 bhp and 1350 kg.
The 18 AMAC cars are equipped with the latest automated manual Sportshift transmission, for fast precise gear shifts, and all the AMAC race cars are equipped with roll cages, safety fuel tanks, race seats and harnesses, and fire extinguisher systems. The AMAC race cars will be serviced at the Aston Martin Beijing (mentioned yesterday) service facility at the city’s Goldenport race circuit.
Aston Martin Beijing also offers a special factory collection option, which will see customers
receive expert instruction on the Goldenport track and an opportunity to drive a Vantage N24.
The AMAC series director - Ian Ross Geekie.
Although the AMAC will award the winner with trophies and money we would be more interested in the sponsored Vantage N24 drive in the FIA GT4 series in 2009.
The introduction of the Aston Martin Asia Cup marks a new and exciting chapter for Aston Martin and their partners in China and the Asia Pacific region.
