Team BRIT, the all-disabled racing team, have acquired their next racing car from SYNETIQ, meaning even more drivers have the chance to get behind the wheel.
The team have taken delivery of a 2019 BMW M240i, acquired through SYNETIQs market-leading salvage vehicle auction. It will be become their next academy car, providing opportunities for more disabled drivers to enter the world of motorsport.
Team BRIT launched its Racing Academy last year as an extension to its racing team. The Academy supports people with physical and psychological challenges in accessing motorsport, by offering track days and experiences at circuits across the country.
Team BRIT’s world-leading hand control technology will be fitted to the car, allowing disabled drivers to race against able-bodied competitors. This cutting-edge system includes an electronic braking system, making racing easier and safer for drivers who are unable to use their legs. It can also be removed easily if required, with a simple swap of the steering wheel.
Following delivery, the vehicle was inspected at a BMW dealership, who confirmed the engine and mechanical components are in excellent working order. Vehicles sold through SYNETIQs salvage auction have been categorised as safe for repair, following the comprehensive assessment undertaken on damaged vehicles.
Damage to the rear of the vehicle will be comprehensively repaired at BMW, before returning to Team BRIT to be converted into race specification by their own skilled mechanics. Replacement OEM parts have also been supplied by SYNETIQ where necessary.
Before the BMW is ready to race, modifications will be made to take its performance to the next level. Engine upgrades will increase power to 455bhp, reducing its 0-60 time to just 3.6 seconds. Upgraded suspension and brakes will also be installed, along with bucket seats and four-point harnesses to protect the safety of drivers.
Dave Player, Founder of Team BRIT: “Our Racing Academy has gone from strength to strength after our launch last year. We’re seeing a huge demand for these opportunities for disabled drivers, so we need to keep growing.
“Our partnership with SYNETIQ has made it possible for us to acquire this almost-new BMW M240i, which is a perfect track car for our Academy. Nowhere else in the world can a disabled person that needs hand controls experience the amazing adrenaline-fuelled rush one gets from pushing a race car around a racetrack, and this car will be the pride of our fleet. We could not have done this without the generous support of SYNETIQ.”
SYNETIQ became a main sponsor of Team BRIT in February this year, and the two organisations will continue to work together to make the most of a truly meaningful partnership.
