Premier testing facility deal
CarExpert New Zealand has signed a three-year partnership with Hampton Downs Motorsport Park giving the automotive publisher access to a controlled environment for testing and filming new cars.
Under the agreement, the north Waikato location becomes CarExpert’s primary filming location with the publisher using the sealed circuit and off-road facilities to conduct independent, repeatable, real-world vehicle testing.
The deal makes CarExpert the naming rights sponsor of Hampton Downs’ monthly car show and establishes the online platform as a media partner for the venue’s motorsport, experience and road-safety programmes.
The facility will underpin CarExpert NZ’s YouTube channel, which is launching later this month following a nationwide presenter search.
Access to a private, purpose-built facility allows CarExpert to test and compare vehicles under consistent conditions – the same surface, corners and measurements every time to deliver detailed, independent reviews.
“We’re dedicated to producing the highest quality, independent automotive content to help Kiwis research and buy new cars,” says Mat McNay, pictured above, country manager of CarExpert NZ. “Partnering with a top-tier facility like Hampton Downs is another way we’re investing in that quality.
“A controlled environment lets us test and compare vehicles properly and inform New Zealand buyers in a way no other platform here currently does.”
The channel takes its blueprint from CarExpert Australia, which has grown into that country’s most popular automotive review channel with more than 650,000 subscribers. CarExpert NZ will build on that format to produce locally made and relevant content.
The CarExpert Caffeine & Gasoline sponsorship, meanwhile, covers naming rights, prominent trackside signage and regular event involvement with the online platform planning to showcase new vehicles to the public at the meet, which is held on the last Sunday of each month.
As part of the partnership, CarExpert will promote Hampton Downs’ key road safety and motorsport events throughout the year.
“It’s exciting to be partnering with an auto publisher investing in delivering quality content to Kiwis,” says Deborah Fluhler, general manager of Hampton Downs Motorsport Park. “CarExpert’s reach is the perfect platform to help us promote our motorsport, experiences and road-safety initiatives.
“The Caffeine & Gasoline sponsorship is a symbiotic partnership. It builds CarExpert’s profile with enthusiasts and brings new audiences through our gates.”
