ASM boss Adam Sharpe has emerged as a key player in the development of the new groupBIO alternative fuel LMP1 programme, it was revealed today by brother-manager Toby. “The Taurus Sports inventory had been held in administration, we discovered over a cup of coffee with diesel motorsport pioneer Ian Dawson at Snetterton in early summer 2005. Adam had been looking at the Taurus diesel for Le Mans 2004, the year he drove the Morgan, but it wasn’t quite the programme he wanted at that stage. But after his Le Mans LMP2 podium in June this year, we set out with Ian to liberate the Lolas and establish groupBIO.”

groupBIO, based at Snetterton under Ian Dawson’s experienced eye, is now pushing hard towards its testing debut. “This time, we have our own Mountune-prepared race engine and a bespoke engine management system,” reported Adam Sharpe. “We also have a top bio-diesel partner in D1 Oils plc, who are already seeing technical advantages arising from our development work. They are keen to back us all the way and we share the same goals.” Le Mans, that would be then? “Of course, that’s our ultimate goal” replied Sharpe, “even more so since Audi have raised the diesel profile. But let’s get our testing under way this season first! We’re gearing up for LMES and we believe we can show well, both in terms of performance and fuel efficiency.”

Aligned with Sharpe in the hybrid Lola is Finn Harri Toivonen, a fellow enthusiast who has worked ceaselessly on keeping up the momentum of the alternative fuel motorsport vision. “Harri and I work well together,” confirmed Sharpe, adding “but you don’t have work without play with the Finns! Toby and I have already sampled the Helsinki hotspots with Harri and friends – and we shall be back! There’s no doubt that we shall gel well sharing the cockpit – we can even fit into each others’ race suits!” [both drivers are over 6’].

And what of those fabulous V8s? Will there be time for them in a season packed with LMP1 development? “For me, making the move to driver professional means keeping closely in touch with Motorsport at all levels” said Sharpe. “ASM had a great debut in 2005 and we shall return to the BritCar circuit for a second year – we’ll be running the winning Australian V8 Ford Falcons, first seen in 2005, in the new Dunlop V8 Challenge.”

Anything else to report, then, Toby? “Adam’s main personal sponsor, Internet merchant services provider VelocityPay.co.uk, will be joined in 2006 by a couple of sponsor-endorsement opportunities,” recounted Toby. “Adam and I have been asked to be involved in the launch of a new Italian fashion clothing line to be released in the UK through the well-known Selfridges Store in London and nationwide. In addition, Adam will become the “young face” of his newest sponsor, the immune system bank, LifeForce plc.”

A busy season in prospect for the Sharpe brothers.

09 Jan 06
Immediate release