V8 Supercar and Bathurst 1000 Champion Mark Skaife OAM has unveiled the world-class track design for the highly anticipated BNE Auto Mall at Brisbane Airport.
Designed by Skaife in partnership with leading track designers iEDM, the 2.5km test track will redefine the customer experience with flexibility to accommodate all skill levels from driver training to V8 super car experiences.
The track is central to the BNE Auto Mall precinct to be developed by Brisbane Airport Corporation’s (BAC) property division, BNE Property.
BAC General Manager of Commercial Businesses John Tormey said the BNE Auto Mall will transform Brisbane’s automotive industry.
“Leading dealerships and manufacturers will be brought together at a landmark destination at Brisbane Airport,” Mr Tormey said.
“Flagship auto retailing will sit alongside brand experience centres, exhibition facilities and associated retail, all located round the Mark Skaife designed test track.”
Mr Tormey said BNE Property would commence development of the 51.3 hectare site in 2017 after extensive consultation and interest from the Australian automotive industry.
“All industry feedback to date has confirmed that Brisbane Airport is the perfect location for a precinct like this because of its size, flexibility and extremely central location just 10km from the CBD,” he said.
Mr Skaife said the test track is what will make the BNE Auto Mall truly special.
“Having the ability to test drive a new vehicle around a track is such a unique concept and something I am really excited to be a part of,” Mr Skaife said.
“This will be the benchmark in Australia for a safe test drive experience and will truly cater for a first drive P-plater through to a CAMS licence holder in a Ferrari or Porsche.
“One of the great aspects of the precinct is being able to drive a car straight from the showroom onto a purpose built test track without having to wait at traffic lights and sit in congestion – you don’t even have to be a car fanatic to appreciate that.
“It’s a unique way for customers to try out a new vehicle and a great way for dealerships to really sell the features of their cars,” he said.
But the racing champion said it’s not all about a need for speed.
“The test track offers a safe environment for driver training and education programs and can also be used for events such as car launches and car club activities,” Mr Skaife said.
“The precinct has huge potential for a range of uses, including a 4WD test track and skid pan that are both fully lit for night time operation.”
Mr Skaife said the Auto Mall would reshape Brisbane’s automotive industry.
“Having a range of dealerships and associated services at the one central precinct is just what Brisbane needs.
“I believe the timing is right. Escalating land values and demand for inner city residential development sites, such as in Fortitude Valley, mean many dealerships are moving or looking to move in the coming years.”
“As the Australian automotive landscape changes, car companies will be turning their focus to marketing, brand stability and the ‘retail experience’ which is a growing trend already being embraced successfully overseas,” Mr Skaife said
BAC and appointed agents JLL are now calling for occupiers to formally register their interest for the limited site offerings within the high profile precinct.
Published By: https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/