Laos to have race track to promote automative sports

Local auto company to invest in race track

A local company plans to invest about US$2 million to build a race track aimed at promoting automotive sports in Laos.

Souksomlouay Auto Service Company Director Somlouay Padabvong announced the plan during a press conference in Vientiane on Monday.

“We will invest about 17.4 billion kip (US$2 million) in the track, which will be located on 11 hectares in Xaythany district in Vientiane ,” he said.

Mr Somlouay said the track would be designed for racing all kinds of vehicles including motorcycles and cars...more info>>

He said it was not yet decided whether the race track would be an individual investment or if it would be open to shareholders or other businesses partners.

At this stage the company has not asked for government permission to develop the land, but this request will be made later this year.

Mr Somlouay said construction of the race track would be completed within 12 months of securing the land agr eement.

Vientiane Administration's Deputy Head of Office, Somphone Sengsilavong, said Laos should have a race track because similar tracks in neighbouring countries were very popular.

“So we should learn from their experiences,” Mr Somphone added.

He said the race track would be good for young people, as they like driving fast and could race on a custom-built circuit without fear of violating traffic regulations.

Mr Somlouay made the announcement during Vientiane Drift 2008, an event being held at Lao ITECC this week to promote car racing.

The Vientiane Drift runs until April 13 and will feature a concert and beauty contest.

By Phonsavanh Vongsay
Vientianetimes