New Aston racing model unwrapped

The first impressions of the new Aston Martin GT2 racing car have emerged from the British manufacturer.

Titled the Aston Martin Vantage GT2, the car is based on the road version of the Vantage - with an upgraded V8 engine under the bonnet.

For the first time Aston Martin is the only manufacturer running vehicles in each of the four GT racing categories.

"The new Vantage GT2 completes our product portfolio for 2008 with competitive cars now available in every category," said Robin Brundle, Aston Martin Racing's managing director.

"Thanks to our experience with the DBRS9, we have been able to develop a bio-ethanol fuelled version, which will be eligible to compete in an increasing number of series now accommodating this greener fuel, including the American Le Mans Series."

In the GT1 formula Aston Martin will run the DBR9; GT2 will accommodate the Vantage GT2; GT3 will see Aston run a DBRS9; and finally a Vantage N24 will run in GT4.

It has already been revealed David Richards, Aston Martin's chief executive, will give details of the company's racing plans at the Autosport International motor show at the NEC, Birmingham on Thursday 10th January 2008.