P1 set to revolutionise powerboat racing with new boat and engine

by RYA on 26 Jan 2011 Powerboat P1 Management unveiled its new P1-28SS race boat at the opening day of Autosport International at the NEC in Birmingham, UK.

This revolutionary new powerboat will be rigged with BRP's Evinrude 250 H.O. E-TEC engine.

The P1-28SS is the culmination of eight months of development and investment by P1 in Britain and the USA, and the collaboration with BRP is set to revolutionise the sport of mono-hull powerboat racing. Featuring the latest technology in safety, hull design, digital telemetry and data acquisition, the P1-28SS will debut in SuperStock Championships in the UK, USA and Norway this year as part of a far-reaching overhaul of Powerboat P1's sporting and commercial activities.

Powerboat P1 chairman, Asif Rangoonwala said: 'After eight years in this sport it is clear to me that one-design class racing is the most appropriate format for creating a motorsport with a level playing field for competitors. The new boat and race series will lead the move from powerboat racing being a hobby into it joining the professional motorsports arena, making it easier for spectators and TV viewers to understand. The P1-28SS is the foundation for national and international racing in multiple markets - it is cost effective, safe and very exhilarating to drive.'

The initial concept design for the new boat was formulated by P1 and its design team led by Raimondo Iuretig. The concept was then digitally designed by some of the marine industry's leading engineers ahead of three prototype vessels undergoing extensive trials in the USA. Construction materials have been carefully selected to optimise weight distribution and maximise endurance and safety. The cockpit design itself has been engineered to provide many of the elements of an enclosed cockpit in an open-cockpit configuration, ensuring maximum safety protection from water impact and collision. P1 worked closely with the Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM) and the RYA in the design and development process.

At 28ft (8.5m) long and capable of speeds up to 75mph, the boat represents exceptional value for money and is designed to make powerboat racing more accessible than ever before. To assist teams and attract new racers, P1 is offering a range of cost effective options including lease deals and arrive-and-drive packages.

BRP's first participaion in a world-class racing series supports P1's commitment to move the sport to a new level. With the P1 SuperStock Championship expanding to the USA and Norway this year, Powerboat P1 felt that it was imperative to work with an international marine industry partner that could offer high quality, innovative products, global reach and support for its vision of building powerboat racing from the ground up with a series that is accessible at all levels.

This year's UK SuperStock Championship will run from May to September with racing at five venues:
May 14-15 or 21-22 Cornwall
June 11-12 Jersey
July 23-24 Plymouth
September 3 Lymington
September 10-11 Liverpool

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