Nissan is the next global brand to enter the Australian V8 Supercars series, where it will take on not only the local boys – Holdens and Fords – but also some European rivals including the new Mercedes E63 AMG. Nissan’s weapon for this tough task is a race-prepped V8-engined Altima.

Nissan is fielding four Altimas, and they’ve managed to score good sponsorship deals too, with whiskey giant Jack Daniel’s and Internet security company Norton by Symantec each supporting two of the cars.

The cars will make their track debut at the annual V8 Supercars Championship pre-season test day at Sydney Motorsport Park February 16. Based on V8 Supercars “Car of the Future” regulations, race cars must have a standard chassis, and the V8s must not be larger than 5.0 liter or more powerful than 650 horsepower.

Nissan Australia Managing Director and CEO William F. Peffer Jr. said that the team unveiling was yet another significant milestone for Nissan Motorsport. “Last October we unveiled the Nissan Altima V8 Supercar, but today we’re unveiling the Nissan Motorsport team,” he said. “Our Altimas are now in combat colors and ready for battle. Nissan is thrilled to be partnering with strong, global brands like Jack Daniel’s and Norton. The 2013 V8 Supercar Championship is an important part of the Nissan Altima’s marketing strategy.”