ITV have announced the launch of a brand new motoring show ‘Drive’, in a bid to take on the BBC and the Chris Evans-fronted reboot of ‘Top Gear’.
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The brand new series will be presented by ‘Family Fortunes’ host Vernon Kay, and will pit eight celebrities against each other as they race old bangers, 4x4’s, buggies and rally cars.
Stars including rapper Professor Green, former ‘X Factor’ judge Louis Walsh and comedian Johnny Vegas will all be racing each other in a bid to reach the final, and the chance to sit behind the wheel of a Formula 4000 racing car.
Vernon Kay and Chris Evans
Other celebrities confirmed for the first series are TV presenter Angus Deayton, Olympic athlete Colin Jackson, TV presenter Mariella Frostrup, singer Ella Eyre and weather expert Laura Tobin.
Speaking about the show, Vernon Kay said: "Everyone thinks they can drive - but can they?
"This show will test not only their skills behind the wheel but also how they control their fear.
"Drive is not just about straight-line speed, all driving skills are going to be tested.
"But when it's not your clutch you're burning or your tyres you're shredding, it's full steam ahead."
Professor Green will appear in the first series
Double British touring car champion Jason Plato will also feature, providing expertise and advice for the celebrity drivers.
ITV entertainment commissioning editor Asif Zubairy added: "We are excited to have Vernon and Jason on board for this brand new driving show with a mischievous twist.
"We have a great line-up of celebrities and I can't wait to see what they can do behind the wheel."
Drive will be shown on ITV later this year, although the all-new ‘Top Gear’ is expected to launch first, with an air date of May.