If you take an interest in motor sport, then you will be well aware that car makers are currently dropping their racing and rallying activities like hot potatoes, due to the global economic downturn. So it is good to report that not everyone is running away and pleading poverty.

Mercedes recently decided to continue its interest in Formula 1, although this was apparently a very close call at their last board meeting. News from the USA means it is likely to be joined on the Grand Prix grid soon by an all-new team.

USF1 will aim to showcase American technology and drivers. The team is fronted by F1 broadcaster Peter Windsor and Ken Anderson, who has been involved with Indy car and NASCAR and was also a former Ligier technical director. Grand Prix bosses, keen to promote the sport in the US market, have welcomed USF1. It is expected to make its debut in 2010.
 
Meanwhile a more familiar British name has announced it is to increase its motorsport activity, with an assault on the Le Mans 24 Hour title. On the 50th anniversary of its outright win at Le Mans, Aston Martin is to return with two works LMP1 cars sponsored by Gulf Oil. The company has won the GT1 class at the event for the last two years and now wants to retake the overall crown, 50 years after its last success. The LMP1 is powered by a V12 petrol engine, which Aston believes will now be more competitive, in comparison to dominating diesel cars, due to regulations.

Last but not least, the famous BRM racing name is set for a return next year. It will be in the form of an electric vehicle designed to take part in hill climb events.  It will be called the BRM Bee Four ERV and will be a fully electric all-wheel drive single-seater.