What's the news?
The Toyota Motorsport GmbH (TMG) GT86 Cup is now set to run until at least 2015 due to the success of the competition's first season.
The single-model race series features CS-V3 versions of Toyota's GT86 road car. These privately owned racers then compete within the Nürburgring-based VLN series to win high value prizes that, during the 2013 season, totalled over €50,000 (about £43,000). In addition to the prizes, competitors also get discounted replacement parts, a low entry fee, dedicated tyre support and a Cup organisation office at every race.
During its first season, the GT86 CS-V3 has so far achieved a faultless reliability record; including on its first outing in the Nürburgring 24-Hour race. Although this event is not part of the GT86 Cup calendar full support will be provided once again in both the 2014 and 2015 races. The TMG GT86 Cup participants have also all cracked the magic 10-minute lap barrier at the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
"This year has been a successful start," said Nico Ehlert, Consumer Motorsport's Principle Engineer. "Now it is established as a cost-effective and competitive racing series, we expect to see the Cup expand over the next two years. We expect to be able to provide full details of the 2014 upgrade pack for the GT86 CS-V3 in the next few weeks."
Anything else?
The 2013 GT86 CS-V3 is a 200hp track-tuned model costing €38,500 before taxes (about £33,000); and orders for the 2014 model have already begun. More information on the car and the race series can be found at www.toyota-motorsport.com/motorsport.
James Giddings - 22 Jul 2013