MANX based satellite operator SES will sponsor the 2011 TT Zero Race.

The company will also become the exclusive "satellite technology" partner of the TT Races and the SES logo will feature on the startline, podium and winner's enclosure as well as on the TT Zero race bikes. 

Mark Guthrie, SES Satellite Leasing managing director, said: "As a locally based business we are aware of the importance and impact of the TT Races, both locally and internationally and we are delighted to become an event sponsor.

"We admire the ground-breaking achievements of the TT Zero teams, and the Isle of Man Government's success in hosting the event, and believe that the race shares many of our own brand values."

The 2011 TT Zero Race will take place on Wednesday, June 8. 2010 race winners Motoczysz from America will be one of a number of teams that will be aiming to be the first to achieve the prestigious 100mph lap around the 37 ¾ mile course.

The Isle of Man Government has offered a £10,000 prize to the first team to record the time, and this year has also offered a £5,000 prize to the first university team.

Economic Development Minister Allan Bell MHK said: "SES is a great example of a successful business that is benefiting from the Isle of Man's corporate practices and commercial environment. We are delighted to welcome them as the TT Zero sponsor and look forward to a long and successful partnership with them."

SES has a global fleet of more than 40 geostationary satellites that can reach 99 percent of the world's population. The satellites are the world's leading television distribution platform and broadcast the equivalent of more than 100,000 hours of television programming every day. They also provide vital communications services and broadband access to businesses and to government administrations worldwide.