The Mercedes-Benz Driving Academy is exploring the nation for Britain’s Best Young Driver.

For the chance to get behind the wheel of a Mercedes-Benz and complete a series of car challenges to win some amazing prizes, young applicants don’t need a full or provisional licence or even any previous driving experience to take part, they just need to be over the age of 16 and over 1.5m tall – fulfilling countless young drivers dreams!

To launch this new and exciting initiative, the Mercedes-Benz Driving Academy is offering some incredible prizes for winners including a full course of driving lessons, the chance to test drive new cars, be invited to exclusive events and experience stylish hospitality including the renowned Formula 1™ British Grand Prix. What’s more, successful challenge finalists can go on to become young VIP’s for the Mercedes-Benz Driving Academy, experience star-studded VIP treatment and meet famous celebrities.

Once they’re behind the wheel, these participants will practice and perfect their driving skills in five challenges that might not be as easy as they look!  A skilled and expert Driving Coach will be on hand to guide and develop their driving accuracy, precision, judgement, concentration and of course, steering – all taking place in a safe and controlled environment at a choice of two specially equipped venues; Mercedes-Benz World in Surrey and Mercedes-Benz Driving Experience Centre at Silverstone Circuit in Northamptonshire.

The Mercedes-Benz Driving Academy was set up to revolutionise the way young people learn to drive in the UK and create a new generation of safe and responsible drivers.  This draws on insights from Swedish research where the impact of an initiative to start learning to drive earlier has been proven to reduce accident rates during the first year of driving by 40% among drivers who started behind the wheel at 16 years old. Furthermore, a recent report by the Transport Committee shows that road accidents are the main cause of death amongst young adults aged 16-24*.

Robert East, National Operations & Development Manager at Mercedes-Benz Driving Academy comments; “Britain’s Best Young Driver is designed to be a positive driving force that puts young drivers in control.  Whether it’s their first time behind the wheel or not, this is a rewarding experience with fabulous prizes to be won that also raises important awareness for road safety among this vulnerable age group.”

“We’re looking forward to finding our winners over the next few months as we continue our commitment to giving valuable driving skills to everyone in a way that they can relate to and experience.”

So whether you’ve passed your test or just love to get behind the wheel, now’s the time to rise to the challenge and get serious about driving. Britain’s Best Young Driver sessions are £45 for 30 minutes or £80 for 60 minutes and you can enter from now until 4^th November 2012.

For more information visit www.mbdrivingacademy.com or call 0845 123 00 55 to sign up today.