Aston Martin is launching a new one-make race series for Asia. This follows the announcement of two new Aston Martin dealerships in Shanghai and Beijing, the first time the brand is being sold in China. Called the Aston Martin Asia Cup (AMAC), the series starts in 2008 and will consist of 12 races throughout the Asia Pacific region including China, Japan, Malaysia and Singapore.

Each race will feature a grid of 18 Aston Martin Vantage N24s, the 4.3L race-developed evolution of the V8 Vantage which has already competed in similar stints in Europe and the Middle East. The V8 engine produces 410hp (305kW) and the car’s total kerb weight is just 1350kg.

The 18 AMAC cars also have the latest automated manual Sportshift transmission and all the cars are equipped with roll cages, safety fuel tanks, race seats and harnesses, and fire extinguisher systems.

In addition to prize money and trophies, the overall winner of the AMAC series will be awarded a sponsored drive in a Vantage N24 in the FIA GT4 series in 2009.