The 2023 Sepang 12 Hours, supported by Motul, made a return with a weekend packed full of activities at the Sepang International Circuit from the 17th to 18th of March. The paddock was filled with members of the media, VIP guests, race fans and Motul customers marking an exciting return of international endurance racing in Asia after a 7-year hiatus. For Motul, the race signified the resurgence of excitement towards a growing motorsport presence in the region, as it continued to support more events in the region in the coming years.
Guests attended a new product launch – the newly formulated 8100 Power – now officially available across Malaysia. The 8100 Power was unveiled to local VIPs by Lionel Dantiacq, Chief Executive Officer of Motul Asia Pacific, Carlo Savoca, Chief Marketing Officer, Ravi Shankar, Malaysia Country Manager and Philippe Chul, Southeast Asia and Oceania Sales Director, who were optimistic about the resurgence of international racing events in the region.
Motul also treated its guests to exclusive pit tours from Craft-Bamboo Racing, hosted by team director Darryl O’Young and Malaysia-based Viper Niza Racing, signifying the long standing relationship and constant support the company has for the two teams through the years. Given the high endurance of the Mercedes-AMG GT3 car driven by Craft-Bamboo Racing, and Viper Niza’s Aston Martin Vantage GT3, the use of Motul’s engine oil during the iconic weekend highlighted the importance of their products for a challenging 8-hour race in tough, sweltering conditions.
The highlight of the event for several attendees was being able to take a lap around the circuit in Mercedes-AMG cars, driven by professional race drivers. Motul was able to deliver a unique experience for its guests, as it continues to amplify the importance of connecting with its discerning customers on the ground at such events.
For Motul, these events are not only a means to engage the local customer base but also an important cog in the foundation of its product development process. As the official lubricant supplier of the endurance race, Motul aided in offering thrilling racing action at the Sepang International Circuit for all the teams from across Asia Pacific. Motul also supported the efforts of two teams competing in the GT3 class, Craft-Bamboo Racing and Viper Niza Racing, which both managed to complete the race in extremely testing conditions, a testament to the reliability Motul lubricants provide.
This race is known for complex challenges presented with high temperatures as the GT3 cars run at the limit for extended periods of time. Lubricants and other integral additives play a monumental role in ensuring the drivers are able to push the car continuously without worrying about reliability issues. This was especially evident this weekend, as the race itself saw no safety cars, accidents, red flags or interruptions from the beginning to the chequered flag, completing a faultless return for the iconic event. None of the teams struggled to cope with the heat, thanks to the technical superiority of Motul lubricants.
Additionally, such events present a live in action proving-ground for Motul products. Not only did the event see fine weather conditions, marking a strong return to motorsport for Southeast Asia but also reflected the attributes the lubricant company is well-known for: the exciting action and competition, dedication to its consumers, innovation, motorsport prowess and passion.
