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SINGAPORE: First the Formula One Night Race, and in a few years, a permanent track that is set to drive motor sports into higher gear in Singapore.
But a network of support industries is needed to sustain the momentum and turbo charge the sport to higher levels.
And that is what Asia AutoSalon, which caters to the auto tuning market, plans to do when it debuts in Singapore.
Modelled after the Tokyo event, Asia AutoSalon is bringing some 70 manufactures from eight countries under one roof, and some of these big players are keen to set up branch offices in Singapore.
Trade aside, the multi-million dollar industry will have spin-offs for motor sports.
Said Koh Aik Leong, organiser of Asia AutoSalon: "This one will bring in more opportunities for racers or teams that (want to) do their branding during the sports events.
"Our local cars (can also) get sponsors from these manufacturers. There are more opportunities that they can consider to put in more budget to sponsor our motor sports industry."
The upcoming permanent track in Changi is also timely for auto tuning enthusiasts and local workshops.
Said Desmond Soh, director of ST Powered: "Because in Singapore, we are not allowed to do modifications (for cars) on the roads... So this is a good chance for (car hobbyists who like to tune their cars) to have their own race car - an off-road, unregistered car to keep in Changi MotorSports Hub."
However, tuning is not all about racing and speed. A "dancing" Lamborghini Murcielago boasts of a customised air suspension kit that allows the car to groove. Its real purpose is to avoid humps on the road.
Asia AutoSalon is a bi-annual event and will return in 2011. By then, the Changi Motorsports Hub should be ready, and the organisers are considering holding the next event there, and incorporate other aspects such as go-karting and even drag racing.
- CNA/yb
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