Penrite backing for Davison Mercedes at Bathurst

Will and Alex Davison’s Erebus Motorsport Mercedes will carry Penrite backing in the Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000.

The team has unveiled a striking livery for the race, featuring the Melbourne-based oil company’s black, red and gold colours.

Penrite is set to become a minor sponsor of the team post-Bathurst, replacing Repsol as the squad’s lubricants partner in a deal that will stretch throughout 2016.

Erebus has struggled to find commercial support over the last two seasons, relying instead on owner Betty Klimenko to prop up the operation.

The team recently ran both cars unsponsored at Sandown following payment issues with the #9 E63’s previous primary backer Solar Australia.

Klimenko says that the Penrite deal will lift the spirits of her team, which downsized earlier this year amid an efficiency-orientated restructure.

“It actually made me quite teary to see a company that believes in what we are trying to do, what Erebus is about, and trusts us to do the best we can,” Klimenko explained

“Having new partners and unveiling new liveries always lifts the spirits of the crew and drivers, and I get a bit carried away with my accessories, it must be the ‘girl’ in me.

“Bathurst, as everyone knows is the biggest event on the V8 calendar, so it is a great opportunity for any new partner to test the waters.”

Despite missing out on a pre-Sandown test, the Davisons proved top six contenders at the 500 last month prior to costly late-race mechanical troubles.

An encouraged Will Davison is eyeing a podium at Bathurst after narrowly missing out to Nick Percat in the dash to the line last year.

“Alex and I had a great result at Bathurst last year in finishing fourth and it would mean the world to both of us and our family if we could step up on that podium together,” said Davison.

“Even though we didn’t end up with the result we wanted at the Sandown 500, we took some real positives out of the event and were headed for a top five result.

“I’m really excited about what’s in store for us at Bathurst next week.”