Sir Chris gets 195mph GT-R 20 | 03 | 2014
THE SCOT WITH the most powerful thighs in sport, Sir Chris Hoy, has just taken delivery of one of the most powerful cars on the road, the awesome new, 195mph Nissan GT-R.
The six-time Olympic Gold medallist and most successful Olympic cyclist of all time collected the keys to his 550PS supercar this week in his new role as Nissan brand ambassador and figurehead for the carmaker’s innovative #UniteAndExcite campaign.
Nissan is the official automotive partner of Team GB and ParalympicsGB on the road to the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and #UniteAndExcite will provide fans with exclusive behind-the-scenes access to athletes’ stories and news of how Nissan’s innovative technology could improve performance.
And the synergy between man and machine was not lost on Sir Chris — a man who knows more than most about speed, performance and sleek, aerodynamic lines — as he climbed behind the wheel of the 195mph GT-R for the first time at West Way Nissan’s Manchester dealership.
“It’s a phenomenal car," the Scot said. "It's absolutely amazing to drive. I love the fact you can pootle around town in it like any other car but then, when you get it on the open road, it’s something truly special.
Related: Sir Chris on Oz podium
“Whether you’re an up and coming rider or one that’s already achieved and succeeded, it’s crucial to know that people are behind you and supporting you.
“Knowing there’s a company like Nissan supporting our athletes and taking an interest, and following them on their journey to Rio, is a real boost.”
The new partnership was also welcomed by Guillaume Masurel, Nissan GB marketing director.
“Nissan is the UK’s largest car manufacturer, and as part of our relationship with the British Olympic Association and the British Paralympic Association, we are supporting our athletes in a number of ways," Masurel said.
"We are thrilled to be working with Sir Chris Hoy in the build-up to the Rio Games and firmly believe the partnership can help drive our athletes to glory.
“Meanwhile, our #UniteAndExcite campaign will give the general public an ongoing insight into the dedication of our Olympic and Paralympic hopefuls on the road to Rio, and connect them with the passion and excitement of the games like never before.
“The new Nissan GT-R is the perfect car for Sir Chris, as it shares many of the attributes which made him such an awesome competitor and sporting icon, such as a ferocious turn of speed and precision handling.”
Related: Pedal power Down Under for Sir Chris and Paul di Resta
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Jim McGill