It would have been easy to opt for a proven car in the BTCC, such as a
BMW or a SEAT, but the Chevrolets mark us out from the crowd," he claimed, "As pointed out, it's going to be a big learning curve the Chevrolets have never competed on Dunlop tyres before but we have a solid amount of testing planning, including running alongside the factory Chevrolet squad in Spain to give us an idea of our performance.
"This is a long-term project, although I'd certainly like to think we can begin rattling the bigger teams' cages towards the end of next season and into 2009.
For Vaulkhard, the elevation to the top tier of national tin-top competition was the realisation of a childhood ambition.
I used to watch my dad [Nigel] race in historic touring cars and it was always my dream to be in the BTCC," the 22-year old Tynesider revealed, "In the world of motor sport, it's got a massive following.
My ultimate aim would be to land a drive with one of the manufacturer teams but, to make that happen, you need to make an impression first and that's what I'll be hoping to do with Robertshaw Racing. I like the set-up and I like the idea of developing the Chevrolet. This is a very exciting programme to be a part of.
