Photo: WTCC Media

SEAT switches to diesel for 2008

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SEAT have confirmed that they will run diesel in the British Touring Car Championship 2008. The diesel powered SEAT Leon was introduced in the WTCC 2007 and was instantly a success.
“The diesel engine that made such a big impact in the WTCC will run in the BTCC with both cars. There are a number of changes we have to make to the car,” said SEAT UK motorsport boss Scott Dennis to Autosport.

The engines have not arrived yet to the team that is expecting a lot of work with it.

“It is not just a simple case of slotting the engine in though. We have to start from scratch, but hopefully we will have our engines sooner rather than later so we can start testing in earnest,” said Dennis.

Jason Plato who finished second in the BTCC 2007 will drive the car and is excited about the diesel engine.

“I think it can perform. It is something to look forward to for us. It is the first time that myself and Darren Turner will be driving a diesel race car, which will be interesting. I am sure it will need a different style and I am very excited about it,” said Plato.