Ex-'Top Gear' trio to host new car show on Amazon Prime

'Top Gear' presenters Richard Hammond, left, James May, centre, and Jeremy Clarkson on Jan. 26, 2011. (AP / Gareth Fuller)

LONDON (AP) -- The former hosts of the BBC's popular "Top Gear" program, who left amid scandal over an off-set dustup, have signed up to present a new car show for broadcaster Amazon Prime.

Amazon said Thursday that Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond have committed to three series of the show, with the first to be broadcast in 2016.

Clarkson said moving to Amazon's streaming service felt "like I've climbed out of a biplane and into a spaceship."

Clarkson was fired in March after he punched a producer during an off-set altercation. The show's two other hosts also left

"Top Gear" has won a huge global following with its mix of car tips, driving stunts and jokey banter. The BBC says the show will continue with new hosts.