Maxxis investigates Team Japspeed Impreza theft
In a statement following up on the June 11 theft of the Team Japspeed 1JZ Subaru Impreza from Santa Pod Raceway, Maxxis shares it has begun an investigation into security issues arising from the incident. The tyre maker also took the opportunity to thank the many performance car fans who assisted in the search for the stolen vehicle.
Recapping the pertinent details, the Impreza was stolen from the Santa Pod Raceway, near Wellingborough, some time shortly after 6:30pm. The purpose-built Maxxis sponsored drift car was part of the Maxxis static display at the Performance Vauxhall Show held at the raceway. It appears a measure of know-how was required to get the Impreza going; Maxxis comments that while the car was unattended when stolen it had been disabled before going on display and required a complex procedure to start the engine.
Online appeals for information generated a strong response from performance car enthusiasts who spread the word via Facebook, Twitter and numerous internet forums. Following various news appearances – it was filmed zipping along the M25 west of London – police located the car in a garage in Holyport, near Maidenhead, early on June 13. Four people were arrested in a joint operation involving Thames Valley Police and Bedfordshire Police. The Impreza has been returned to Team Japspeed in its found state, stripped of its bumper, rear spoiler, rear lights and identifying stickers, but otherwise undamaged.
Speaking about the car’s theft and safe return, Maxxis International managing director Derek McMartin said “Maxxis takes security very seriously, so although we are delighted that the Team Japspeed Impreza has been returned relatively unscathed, we are very upset that something like this could happen and are doing all we can to investigate. The fans that helped circulate the news and search for the Impreza were absolutely amazing and we would like them to know how much we appreciate their support.”
“We feared the worst, so are delighted to have the car back and are now working on the repairs,” added Paul McCallum, owner of Team Japspeed. “Maxxis looks after its partners and has been really supportive, working closely with us from the moment we realised the Impreza had been stolen. Huge thanks also to everyone who used social media to raise awareness, which played an important part in recovering the car. It really was a big help and I’m disappointed to see some of the forums suggesting this whole incident was somehow engineered to generate publicity, because that’s utter nonsense.”
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