Teenage racing driver Jordan Batts is looking to make a big impact when his debut Quaife Motorsport News Saloon Car Championship season commences this month.

The 17-year-old from Selsdon is racing in the championship for the first time having made the step up from racing Citroen Saxos last season, and takes to the track at Brands Hatch for his first race on March 25.

Having come through the ranks after starting in karting, Batts gained an adult racing license last year and will be racing a 270bhp Seat Leon Cupra this year.

“I decided to move up as I wanted to move into a faster car, I am mad about speed,” he said.

“It is about getting on the track and going as fast as you can and pushing yourself to the limit, I love it.

“I expect to do well in my first season as long as my car is reliable.

“I’m hoping to finish in the top five overall and in class at the end of the season.”

Batts has been involved in racing since he was nine – starting in karting before racing cars in the junior series at the Layhams Farm oval track.

From there he stepped up to the Saxmax championships and was noticed by the UK Governing Body of Motorsport and chosen to be a part of the Motor Sport Association Academy (MSAA).

“They help with the mental, fitness and psychological side of things,” said Batts of the MSAA.

“They push me that bit extra and they do help a lot.”

The saloon car championship has of cars from 600bhp four-wheel drive monsters through to classic saloons.