YOUNG Dorset racing driver Luke Wright is all set to make his race debut in the Air Asia Renault Clio UK Cup, having signed to drive for the Scuderia Vittoria race team.

The talented 18-year-old, who began his career in kart racing at the Clay Pigeon circuit near Dorchester, will contest the one-make saloon car series which supports the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC).

Wright, from Shaftesbury, has made the switch to the series following previous success in the BARC Formula Renault category during 2010.

The Clio Cup is regarded as the premier one-make saloon car championship in the UK and is one of the best platforms from which to progress up to the hugely popular BTCC.

Notably, approximately one third of the 2011 BTCC grid will be made up of ex-Clio racers who have honed their skills in what can be an unbelievably competitive race series.

However, Wright has no concerns over the switch to saloon car racing.

He said: “It is definitely a very different method of driving, especially as the Clio is front-wheel drive and has no real aerodynamic aids, which is what I am used to.

“I have adapted quickly however and we have shown some good pace at all of our test sessions, topping the timesheets in many cases.”

Benefiting from extensive live TV coverage through the ITV sport network the Clio Cup is contested by professional race teams with cars based on the road going Renault Sport Clio Cup 200 model, albeit with racing modifications.

During the winter Wright faced the all too common task of securing the funding to continue racing, and with the current challenging financial climate is grateful of the support that he has obtained.

The Dometic Group who have their UK base in Blandford St Mary will assume the role of lead sponsor.

Dometic supply the marine industry with chilled water and air conditioning systems through their marine division, with major clients including Poole-based Sunseeker Yachts.

However, Luke and the team are still on the hunt for further possible local financial support.

Commenting on the thought of dicing wheel to wheel and bumper to bumper at speeds of up to130mph Wright explained: “I am fully embracing the Clio’s reputation for aggressive racing and I would not have it any other way! I’ve always been a fan of this type of competition as it is much more entertaining.

“Often I have thought that this is what single seater racing lacks. It may take some getting used to, but I can assure you, I will be standing my ground and giving as good as I get.”

Wright will be in action at Brands Hatch on April 2 and 3 for the opening two rounds of the championship.