Mediaset takes Magnify Media car-based gameshow into Italy

Test Drive

Mediaset in Italy has ordered a local remake of an automotive-focused gameshow that was first ordered by the BBC in Scotland.

Test Drive follows three teams as they embark on a road trip through beautiful scenery en route to a mystery destination. During the drive, they must answer questions via a specially adapted satnav, with correct answers directing them on the shortest route. A wrong answer will add miles to their trip, with the winners being the team with the lowest mileage.

The format is sold by UK-based distribution firm Magnify Media and will be remade in Italy by Endemol Shine’s production company YAM 112003. The 8 x 30 minute show is set to debut on RTI Mediaset in January 2020, where it will be known as NCC – Navigazione Con Conduttore.

The original series, fronted by celebrity wrestler Grado, was created by Argonon-backed Scottish prodco Bandicoot. Its sale to Mediaset represents the first international format deal for any BBC Scotland show. Test Drive premiered in February on BBC Scotland with the second run currently airing.

Andrea Jackson, CEO of Magnify Media, said: “Test Drive is a fresh and funny take on the game-show format and it’s also the perfect show for any country that has great landscapes to share, which is true of both Scotland and Italy. I’m optimistic that NCC – Navigazione con Conduttore will be the first of many local versions on Test Drive’s road trip to success.”