Alesi Signs For Lotus

F1 legend Jean Alesi adds expertise to the Lotus Motorsport line-up.

Lotus Motorsport are delighted to announce that French F1 driver Jean Alesi has become an ambassador for the Type 125 and Exos programme.

The Lotus 125 is an exclusive ultra high performance F1 inspired race-car complete with Cosworth 3.5 litre GP V8 engine producing 640bhp linked to a six-speed semi automatic gearbox with paddle shift. Unlike a Formula One car however, an army of technicians and mechanics is not required to start the engine and keep the car running. The start button is all the driver needs to press to get going.

Given his F1 pedigree, Alesi is the perfect person to partner with for the Type 125. He enjoyed a successful and eventful F1 career competing in 202 grands prix and collecting a total of 241 points driving for teams such as Ferrari, Tyrell, Benetton, Sauber, Prost and Jordan. From 1989 to 2001, Alesi didn't stray far from the race track and is still known as one of the most popular drivers in the F1 paddock.

Commenting on the announcement Jean Alesi said: "I'm delighted to be partnering with Lotus, I have a lot of affection for this great British brand and I'm confident that they will achieve great things in the future both on and off the race track. I'm particularly passionate about anything that brings people closer to the racing action and the Type 125 does exactly that, it's the ultimate race experience and I'm really looking forward to testing in Vallelunga and Abu Dhabi."

Alesi joined Lotus Motorsport at the Autosport International Show at the NEC today (13 January) to celebrate the unveiling of many of Lotus Motorsport's racing disciplines including the reveal of the new 2011 Lotus Renault GP F1 car livery.

Gino Rosato, Director of Corporate Operations for Group Lotus, said: "Jean has been a good friend for many years, I have had the privilege of working with him in the past and I really respect and admire the way he operates. With his F1 background, connections and contacts, I think he brings a lot to the table and we're really looking forward to working with him. We think he'll make the perfect Lotus brand ambassador."