Two cars based on the new MG ZS 180 saloon have been entered into this year's championship and will be competing in the last three rounds at Silverstone, Donington and Brands Hatch.

Lola and Advance Engine Research (AER) are consultants for the engineering of EX259, The team management is co-ordinated by West Surrey Racing, who previously ran successful BTCC teams for Ford and Honda as well as launching the careers of a dozen F1 stars, including the late Ayrton Senna.

Dick Bennetts, managing director, West Surrey Racing, commenting on the ongoing testing and development programme at MIRA, Pembrey and Croft, said:

"For a brand new car straight out of the box it's very encouraging. The new regulations are designed to produce a car halfway between the old Super Touring and Super Production classes. This car is a Super Touring 'minus' rather than a Super Production 'plus', which is great, just where we wanted to be. Anthony's previous experience combined with our knowledge is working well - there's still a lot more to come."

Rob Oldaker, managing director, MG Sport & Racing Limited:

"The enthusiasm for MG XPOWER will be self evident at Silverstone as we anticipate that an army of MG supporters will make the pilgrimage to the Northamptonshire circuit. Our success in completing more than half the race at Le Mans in June this year went a long way towards building such loyalty. However, until our first BTCC race with MG ZS EX259. Our mission is to get on the pace in 2001 ready for a full title assault next year."