Jeremy Gray has announced that he will pilot an Aston Martin Vantage GT4 in this year’s CAMS Australian GT Championship.

GT4 cars become eligible to compete in the top tier of Australian GT in 2018 in their own class, having previously been restricted to the Trophy Series.

Gray is the first competitor to confirm his entry, beginning with Round 1 at the Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix later this month.

The former V8 Utes driver tested the ex-Prodrive Aston, which will run in Bilstein colours, throughout last year.

“We’ve had it over here for the last 12 months just testing and getting familiar with the car,” said Gray.

“Bilstein has come on board, so the car looks quite good at this stage, and Bilstein is right behind it.

“They’re giving me support on car set-up this year, so it’s a great synergy and partnership.”

In the endurance rounds of the championship, he will share the car with Australian GT race winner Andrew Miedecke.

More GT4 entries into Australian GT are set to be announced at a later date.

Last month’s Bathurst 12 Hour saw 10 GT4 entries including four examples of the new BMW M4, including those fielded by BMW Team SRM and Tony Longhurst’s Boat Works Racing.

The Australian Grand Prix takes place at Albert Park from March 22-25.