The 52-year-old builder is the reigning super sedan state champion who will be out to defend the crown he won last season while keeping one eye firmly fixed on the Australian titles as well.

He is a seven-time state champion in super sedans over a career spanning more than 30 years since starting in the sport in 1982.

‘‘We won the state title at Carrick in March this year and would love to go back-to-back,’’ Nichols said.

‘‘Our car is a Bullet Mustang-shape built by Richard Slatter, which is three years old.

‘‘We hope to do really well and we’ve got the Australian titles being held in Tasmania at the end of January and that’s our major aim.’’

With drivers from all over the country for the Australian titles, Nichols said the competition would be tough with two nights of intense racing to decide the national title.

‘‘I’ve never won an Australian title before and the closest I’ve been is a third,’’ he said.

‘‘The super sedans are pretty awesome to drive with 700-plus horsepower and we’re keen to get a win in the opening round.’’