Noble saved by cash injection

By Ben Oliver

Motor Industry

18 September 2006 09:30

British supercar maker Noble Cars has fought back from the brink, thanks to a cash injection from a new mystery backer.

In an exclusive interview with CAR Online, boss Lee Noble vowed that the M15 – Noble's Ferrari fighter – would go on sale in early 2007. 'I have successfully teamed up with a dedicated owner who shares my commitment, passion and vision for the future of Noble cars,' said Noble. 'With substantial financial investment which will deliver the M15 in early 2007, the future of Noble Cars is assured.'

The anonymous new backer replaces David Jones, chairman of high street fashion chain Next. 'He's gone and it's a good thing too,' was how Noble described the change of backer, hinting that the pair had disagreed about company strategy. Noble added that he had now cleared the firm's debts, which should restart the firm's supply chain.

Final development work on the 455bhp M15 has been on the back burner, due to a lack of cash. But he claims he is now fully focused on delivering the 180mph supercar by next spring at the latest.

By Ben Oliver