HPDC V8 Supercar Series launched.

Once known as the Konica Minolta V8 Supercar Series, though more recently under the temporary name of the AVESCO V8 Development series, the second tier of touring car racing in Australia has a new and equally awkward name.

In a 'joint initiative' between The V8 Supercar governing body (AVESCO) and the Holden Performance Driving Centre, the sister V8 series has secured ongoing support for 2005.

The series, now officially known as the 'HPDC V8 Supercar Series' is a breeding-ground of talented teams and individuals looking to make their way into the prestigious V8 Supercar championship.

The series has stamped it's authority on Australian motorsport as one of the premier tin-top categories on the continent, rivaling the Carerra Cup series for driving talent and spectator support.

The new sponsor is a Gold-Coast based driving school held in high regard by the Australian motoring community. General Manager of the Holden Performance Driving Centre, Russell White spoke to the Australian media in regard to the new sponsorship arrangement.

"For well over a decade, HPDC has been recognised as a 'University' for better driving. We want to highlight the importance of being a good road driver and that the road can be a more dangerous environment than the racetrack" Mr. White said.

"We see enormous potential in Holden Performance Driving Centre sponsoring the V8 development series. It's sure to be a high profile association that will help us in promoting road safety awareness, particularly through our junior driver programs,"

The HPDC V8 Supercar Series commences at Adelaide's Clipsal 500 on March 17 - 20 where it supports the V8 Supercar Championship Series at their opening round.