Australia's leading automotive chain, Supercheap Auto has extended its naming rights sponsorship of Holden V8 Supercar team Paul Morris Motorsports under the Supercheap Auto Racing banner for a further two years.

The extension means that 2005 V8 Supercar and dual Bathurst champion Russell Ingall will continue racing at least until the end of the 2011 season.

Also confirmed is a technical alliance between Supercheap Auto Racing, Triple Eight Race Engineering and its V8 Supercar Championship-winning TeamVodafone, which will switch to Holden Commodores from next season.

Team principal Paul Morris made the announcement at PMM headquarters - based at the Holden Driving Centre on the Gold Coast - today [Wednesday], revealing that PMM will run two Triple Eight-built Holden VE Commodores with an ongoing collaboration covering all aspects of the chassis and engine.

“Today is definitely one of the most exciting days in the history of Paul Morris Motorsports,” Morris said, “With the combination of people and companies here today, it's clear we are continuing to build a strong package that will allow us to take the next step in the team's competitive development.

“We have shown the ability to race at the front on many occasions, both this season and in previous years, and feel confident that as of next year we can challenge even more regularly.”

Supercheap Auto brand manager David Bauer acknowledged that the company's sponsorship of V8 racing plays a crucial role in its marketing portfolio.

“Our support of Paul Morris Motorsports is a key factor in building awareness of the Supercheap Auto brand throughout Australia,” Bauer said, “Motorsport, particularly V8 Supercars, is extremely popular and our association with a well-renowned and successful team is hugely important to our business.

“In addition, Russell is the face of Supercheap Auto's road safety campaign, which works alongside the Holden Driving Centre, so we are delighted to continue our partnership with him.”

Ingall also confirmed that it had been an easy decision to race on with the Gold Coast-based PMM team.