MUMBAI: Silverstone-based Formula One team Sahara Force India has announced that Aethra, a leading auto parts manufacturer based in Brazil, has joined the team as an official partner for the 2012 season.

The signing of the partnership marks the beginning of Aethra’s strategy to increase its brand awareness by taking full advantage of the global audience offered by Formula One.

Sahara Force India Team Principal & MD Dr. Vijay Mallya said, “I am pleased to welcome Aethra to the team as we prepare for the start of our 2012 campaign. Their support is important as we seek to build on the solid foundations we have established over the last four seasons and sustain the momentum we generated last year. As an auto parts supplier, Aethra is an ideal match for Sahara Force India and their understanding and passion for cars will help ensure the success of the partnership for both organisations.”

Aethra‘s management believes that this partnership is a significant step towards their global expansion, especially in important markets such as India and China. The relationship with Sahara Force India, therefore, offers an exceptional marketing platform for Aethra’s growing product range.

Aethra CEO Rafael Sportelli said, “Aethra is very proud to join the Sahara Force India Formula One Team. Both companies share a long commitment to technical excellence and strive for innovation in very competitive environments. Over the last few years this has been demonstrated by Sahara Force India’s rise through the ranks, culminating in a fine sixth place in the championship last year. Aethra is delighted to be associated with a team that is hungry for success and we look forward to an exciting 2012 season.”