Richard Lloyd's Apex Motorsport announces today that it will
develop Jaguar's new XKR Coupe for use in the FIA GT3 Euro Series
from 2007.
Apex, whose recent successes include winning Le Mans in 2003
with Bentley, is being relaunched with this exciting project. The
team now includes Lloyd's new partner Harry Handkammer, a long time
friend and top Britcar racer.
"It was obvious to us that the Jaguar name was missing from the
list of GT3 contenders, and we aim to put that right," said Lloyd.
"We believe the new XK has huge potential, and we plan to have at
least the required six race cars ready for the first event in the
2007 season." Development of the aluminium bodied, supercharged V8
engined Jaguar will commence immediately at Apex's Buckingham race
shop.
The Apex race activities are independent of Jaguar - this is not
a factory motorsport programme - but in accordance with FIA GT
rules Apex has the premium brand's blessing to compete.
Stuart Dyble, Jaguar Board Director and Vice President,
Communications and Public Affairs, Premier Automotive Group and
Ford of Europe, said, "We welcome this initiative which will result
in production Jaguar sportscars being seen once again on race
circuits across Europe. We are just launching the all new Jaguar
XKR road car and GT3 is the natural race series in which to
compete. We wish Apex every success."
Stephane Ratel, Chairman of GT3 European Championship organising
company SRO Motorsports, welcomed Jaguar to the burgeoning FIA GT3
grid, saying, "Jaguars in GT3 will further strengthen the appeal
and excitement of the series, and we very much look forward to
seeing them in the paddock and on the track."
Lloyd and Handkammer would be happy to hear from anyone
interested in campaigning this new GT3 championship contender next
season.
They can be contacted at Apex Motorsport on 01280 824445 or
success@apexmotorsport.co.uk