Electric vehicle (EV) hypercar manufacturer McMurtry Automotive has announced a significant new partnership with Wiltshire race track Castle Combe Circuit. This agreement will see McMurtry utilising the facilities for extensive testing of its upcoming “Spéirling PURE” customer track car throughout 2024.
The partnership benefits both parties. McMurtry gains a convenient testing ground just 30 minutes from their headquarters, allowing for rapid development cycles with quick turnaround between test sessions. The engineering team can gather valuable on-track data and make adjustments efficiently. Castle Combe Circuit, on the other hand, strengthens its ties to the cutting edge of electric vehicle technology and plays a role in the development of a groundbreaking car.
This collaboration isn’t entirely new. McMurtry has a history with Castle Combe, having used the track extensively during the development of their record-breaking Spéirling fan car. That car, piloted by Max Chilton, smashed the Goodwood Festival of Speed hill climb record in 2022, etching McMurtry’s name into motorsport history.
The agreement goes beyond just track time. McMurtry will benefit from bespoke branding around the Castle Combe Circuit throughout the year, increasing their visibility. Additionally, McMurtry has recently hired two technicians from the Wiltshire College Motorsport Campus, located right at the Castle Combe facility, further solidifying their connection to the local motorsport scene.
“Castle Combe Circuit’s convenient location is a major advantage,” said Thomas Yates, McMurtry Automotive’s Managing Director. “It allows our engineering team to swiftly gather data and make adjustments during testing, accelerating the development process. The Castle Combe team’s proactive support ensures our testing days run smoothly and productively.”
Max Symonds, Castle Combe Circuit’s Commercial Manager, echoed Yates’ enthusiasm. “We’re thrilled to have McMurtry utilise the circuit even more in 2024 for the development of their new vehicles,” he said. “McMurtry is a pioneer in electric motorsport, and Castle Combe Circuit is excited to support them and the progress of electric vehicles on the track.”
Castle Combe Circuit boasts a long history of supporting EVs. They are a key UK circuit that actively welcomes electric cars on track days and caters to private hire by EV groups and organizations. Recognising the growing importance of electric vehicles, the venue is working closely with McMurtry to establish on-site EV charging options in the near future.
This partnership between McMurtry Automotive and Castle Combe Circuit is a win-win for both parties. McMurtry gains a valuable testing ground to refine their Spéirling PURE, while Castle Combe Circuit positions itself at the forefront of electric vehicle development in motorsport. The collaboration promises to accelerate the innovation of electric hypercars and solidify Castle Combe’s place as a champion of clean mobility on the racetrack.
