This massive circle you see in the Google Earth picture above is the Nardo test track in southern Italy. It is a banked oval track, basically and endless corner, which is used by all car makers and magazines for high speed tests. Now Porsche announced they have taken over the circuit Prototipo SpA. Does this mean they are going to lock down the track and have it all to themselves? Probably not.

Porsche is apparently taking on a management role here, as they say they are going to optimize the track and the facilities around it, to offer a better service to its clients from the automotive industry and other sectors worldwide.

Nardo does need some optimizing, as the high speed track is not what you call smooth and clear. And who better to do this job than the Germans. The Lecce-based compound comprises a 6.2 kilometre long handling circuit, a 12.5 kilometre long oval circuit and facilities for simulating different road surfaces and changeable weather conditions.

“The Nardò proving ground with its high-speed and vehicle handling circuit ideally complements our facilities in Weissach. With the systematic development of the company in Nardò as part of Strategy 2018, Porsche is proving to be a reliable employer and business partner in Apulia as well,” said Matthias Müller, President and CEO of Porsche AG.