The People's Association on Wednesday announced that the Red Bull Racing team will bring in an F1 car to burn some rubber during the event.

As many as 100,000 spectators are expected to watch the 36th edition of the parade on Feb 15 and 16.

The show will also be telecast to 22 countries in Asia with a potential audience of 20 million.

Mr Tan Boon Huat, PA's chief executive director said: 'We are pleased that Red Bull Austria put the idea of bringing their F1 car to Singapore before September to us.'

'Chingay not only has a strong Asian flavour, but it is also for people from all walks of life, be it locals or foreigners.'

'It is a show not only about tradition but also about the modern.'

'That is why having a real F1 car will not only add to the excitement of the parade, but will also provide a sneak preview of what to expect when F1 racing comes to town.'

According to Madam Rose Tan, chairman of Integrated Marketing Solutions Group, the public relations consultants for Red Bull Austria, the idea was first mooted on Dec 31 and negotiations were wrapped up 18 days later on Jan 17.

Talks are underway to invite one of the team's drivers, Scot David Coulthard or Australian Mark Webber, to give a demonstration of the car's abilities during the parade.

Besides the horsepower on show, this year's Chingay Parade has also switched from its usual Orchard Road route to a new one that starts from City Hall and ends along Republic Boulevard.

Picnic stands will also be set up along Connaught Drive for fans with tickets - a first for the Chingay.

Read the full story in Wednesday's edition of The Straits Times.