Australia shifts into Top Gear

SBS has managed a major coup, securing the rights to create an Australian version of Top Gear.

The British motoring program has been a smash hit for SBS and the broadcaster is aiming to push ratings higher with a locally-produced Top Gear program that will go to air next year.

No other country has made a local version of Top Gear, which has been a worldwide hit thanks to its clever writing, breathtaking footage and the wit of presenters Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond.

“This is fantastic news for SBS, for Top Gear fans and for Australian audiences,” said SBS content director Matt Campbell.

He said the Australian version would feature local hosts and would not simply replicate the English series.

“SBS plans to make a program that is uniquely and quintessentially Australian,” Mr Campbell said.

Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson had his own suggestion for the creators of the Australian show.

“Maybe the first guest could by Jonny Wilkinson,” Clarkson said, referring to England's World Cup hero who has caused the Australian rugby team so much trouble.

SBS has screened the British Top Gear show since 2005 and has committed to broadcasting the series as for as long as the BBC continues to produce it.

The local series will be produced by Freehand Productions, BBC Worldwide's Australian partner.

As reported by GoAuto in September, the Top Gear team will tour Australia next year presenting the MPH Live Motoring Theatre show.

Clarkson, Hammond and May are all expected to appear in the automotive extravaganza that is expected to appear in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane.

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Clarkson for Oz