Tom Ingram unveils 2021 challenger

Tom Ingram has pulled the covers off the Hyundai i30 N Fastback that he will use for his assault on the 2021 British Touring Car Championship.

The two-time Independents’ title winner switches teams for the first time in his BTCC career ahead of the new season after inking a deal to join EXCELR8 Motorsport following his surprise departure from Speedworks late last year.

Ingram will continue to be backed by long-time sponsors Ginsters and Hansford Sensors this year, with both featuring extensively on the livery he will carry on the Hyundai during the year ahead.

“It’s brilliant to see my i30N up close ‘in the flesh’ finally, and I have to say, I think the livery looks absolutely awesome on the Hyundai – really cool,” he said. “It’s obviously quite a recognisable design now, but it’s on a completely different car and I love the fact that it looks like it’s moving even when it’s standing still.

“I’m hugely fortunate to benefit from the continued support of both Ginsters and Hansford Sensors – particularly in the current climate. They are the most amazing partners who have always fully immersed themselves in this incredible journey we are on, and knowing I have them cheering me on every time I take to the track is tremendous motivation.”

Ingram has already tested the car at Snetterton, and said he was already comfortable within the EXCELR8 squad.

“This is a really exciting time for me, and I’ve settled into the team very well,” he said. “Naturally, I knew quite a few of the guys and girls already simply through being in the paddock over the years and via the coaching and instructing I have done with some of EXCELR8’s junior drivers. My engineer ‘Spenny’ and I have been welcomed with open arms and made to feel at home straightaway – it honestly feels like we’ve been here for years.

“I’m really enjoying the new environment and relishing the fresh challenge ahead – I’ve got a spring back in my step, and I’m fired-up to repay the faith shown in me by the team and my loyal partners. Our pre-season aim is very simply to make the Hyundai as quick as possible to be able to achieve the results everybody deserves right from the first qualifying session.

“I can see the potential in both the team and the car, and I’m really looking forward to unlocking it. I had a small taste of the i30N at Snetterton last month, where I was able to establish a good baseline and understanding, and now I’m eager to gauge where we are against our competitors. I can’t wait to climb behind the wheel of my car for the first time, evaluate the 2021 upgrades, work closely with my three team-mates – and get properly down to business!”