SSC Racing to import/distribute Biland 250cc 4-Cycle Engine in North America; Biland World Challenge also announced PALM SPRINGS, Calif. - The revolutionary Swiss-built, Biland SA250 4-cycle powerplant, recently showcased at the prestigious Paris-Bercy celebrity karting extravaganza in France, will be exclusively imported and distributed in North America by SSC Racing, announced company President Joe Ramos. In addition, an international championship -- the Team Biland World Challenge -- was also announced. Similar in format to the popular R-Max Challenge, the Team Biland World Challenge will pit the best drivers from participating countries in an international shootout in France this October. "The Biland SA250 4-cycle engine is powerful, durable, and low maintenance," explained Ramos. "High-performance 4-cycle motors are the future of karting as noise and environmental issues became more important internationally. We're looking forward to promoting this engine and the Biland World Challenge in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada." The Biland SA250 is a 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, straight 2 powerplant, water-cooled. It has a 58mm bore, a 47mm stroke, and an 11-1 compression ratio. The cylinder head utilizes a single overhead camshaft and 2 valves per cylinder. Two Dell'Orto carburetors deliver the fuel, unleaded ROZ 95. It weights approximately 33 pounds and incorporates an integrated electric starter. The Team Biland World Challenge will debut in 2002, with 16 countries participating, including the U.S. The best 70 drivers of the Biland Challenge will be invited to the world final in autumn 2002. Transport and accommodation will be paid. To participate at the Biland Challenge you need a Biland 4-stroke engine SA250. No tuning or modifications are allowed. Ramos said the one person who convinced him of the engine's merits was ex-SSC driver Patrick Long, who participated in the Bercy event. Long, now racing formula cars in Europe, was invited to Bercy after finishing second in Slick 50 Zetec British Formula Ford championship last year. He raved about the Biland's wide-torque band, horsepower and overall "fun" factor. For more information on becoming a dealer for the Biland SA205 or for participating in the Team Biland World Challenge contact SSC Racing, 3101 E. Alejo, Palm Springs, CA 92262, 760-864-1323, info@sscracing.com or at www.sscracing.com. Information on the Biland SA250 and World Challenge can be found at www.kart-power.com.