Autosport International (ASI), the world's largest motorsport exhibition, looks set to break all its records next January after tickets got off to a flying start.

Increased public interest in the event’s 18th show is predicted thanks to the “Lewis Hamilton” effect after his astonishing debut Formula 1 season with McLaren. More than 90,000 visitors are now expected at the Birmingham NEC across the two-day ASI spectacle, to which Hamilton has been a regular visitor in the past.

The show marks the start of the new season for most fans and sees teams, drivers, manufacturers and championships host stands, make announcements and mingle with the general public at the prestigious event.

In 2008 visitors and motorsport enthusiasts will again be able to get up close to their favourite F1 cars on the F1 Racing feature and a number of new features to be announced in the next two weeks.

In addition, the Live Action Arena gives visitors the chance to get right next to the action as race-prepared cars rev-up and let loose in the custom-built showground.

Another big crowd-draw will be the first-ever Pistonheads Performance Car Show, which will run in parallel to ASI. More than 25,000 sports car fans are expected to attend for features including a concept car gallery, supercar paddock, track day cars, performance tuned cars and car market. 

Autosport International will run from Saturday 12 to Sunday 13 January. Adult tickets start at £28 per day with children’s tickets costing £18.50. To book, visit autosport-international.com or call 0044 8700400396.