It's for safety

The latest and most powerful model in the iconic Audi TT range - the new 272PS TTS - will make a fittingly dynamic debut in Britain. The most powerful ever production Audi TT coupe to date has been chosen by the TT organisers as the prestigious Official Car' at this year's world-famous event which runs from May 24-June 6.

Audi paid homage to the legendary Tourist Trophy motor sport event of the same name in naming its TT' sportscar. It is an event in which machines from one of its founding companies competed with considerable success in the spectacular Tourist Trophy race which was first staged on the Isle of Man in 1905.

Peter Duffy, Audi UK's head of marketing, said: "Having been supporters of the British Super Bike championship in recent years, we're now delighted to be associated with the Isle of Man TT races and to be able to play an active part in this world famous event.

"The Isle of Man held the very first Tourist Trophy event in Britain and became an integral part of Audi's heritage in its days with NSU. We look forward to writing the next chapter in our company's history with the public showing of the new Audi TTS on the island."

For two weeks of every year the eyes of the world focus on the Isle of Man as the finest motorcycle road racers spectacularly pit their skills against the 37 miles of public roads. Audi UK is supplying eight cars from its impressive product range to manage the running of the event including vital course inspection and roads-opening duties.

Apart from its early activities involving NSU and the Auto Union Grand Prix cars, Audi has been involved more recently in world rallying - changing the face of the sport with its quattro four-wheel-drive - and in the Le Mans 24 Hours race, which it has already conquered twice with its history-making diesel-powered sports-prototypes.