This extreme-looking machine is New Zealand’s first genuine supercar. Developed by Hulme Supercars Limited, it is called the Hulme.F1 Champion 1967, in honour of the country’s only F1 world champion, the late Denny Hulme.

Track-biased but road-legal, it is powered by a 550bhp version of the 5-litre V8 from the old BMW M5, mid-mounted in a fully composite chassis and body that help keep the car's weight down to 1175kg. The all-composite construction benefits from New Zealand’s obsession with the America’s Cup yacht race, the racing boats in which make extensive use of carbonfibre and Kevlar.

The rear-drive Hulme.F1 was conceived in 2003, meaning it predates both the other forthcoming Grand Prix-inspired supercars, the Caparo T1 and MB Roadcars' Exigence Of Speed.

A final price has yet to be set, but predictions range as high as £200,000. Hulme Supercars originally talked of making up to 100 cars a year, but has now revised those figures to nine units globally in the first year and 20 per year after that.

Visit www.supercarsNZ.com for the full story.