Proton Takes Pole Position At Silverstone Racing School
Published: 10th January 2002
Proton’s ground breaking Satria GTi, the first model from the Malaysian manufacturer to feature Lotus ride and handling, will become the exclusive road car for race school tuition at Britain’s premier motor racing circuit.
The launch of the Proton Racing Experience will be announced today (Thursday 10th January) at the Autosport International Show in Birmingham. A fleet of 60 Satria GTi’s has been delivered to Octagon Motorsports, who run the racing school, for driver training, corporate activities and track support at Silverstone and Brands Hatch.
In a move unprecedented in British motor racing, Proton will become the first car marque to operate a sales facility for Satria GTi and other Proton models at Silverstone.
“We may not be the first brand that springs to mind when pub talk turns to motor racing”, said Colin Low, Managing Director of Proton Cars (UK) Ltd, “but in the future we will see a change in our image as the benefits of Lotus-inspired ride and handling filter through.
“At Silverstone we have a unique opportunity for around 30,000 car enthusiasts to drive the Satria GTi in the wheeltracks of today’s top Grand Prix stars. Once they have sampled this special driving experience, we believe that many will see Proton in a new light when they next plan to buy a new car.”
Announcing the exclusive supply contract with Proton, Rob Bain, CEO
of Octagon Motorsports, said: “The partnership with Proton presents
a fantastic opportunity for both Octagon Motorsports and our customers.
This partnership will ensure we continue to provide exhilarating experiences
at our circuits and confirm our position as market-leaders in this field.”
