Wanted to comment on this bit of news. On one hand, I think it may be good that it is not heading to NBC, which could possibly end in a quick death. On the other, existing on the outer rim of cable networks is not good for exposure really. The point of this whole mess is to bring in new viewers. I just don't know where this would best fit.
Would not want to see it on Comedy Central, FX, TLC, or SPEED. These to me are horrid cesspools and all I could see happening at the best is a short lifespan with nobody watching. If on lower tier cable, Discovery would be my only choice. It has the best exposure of the cable networks, has room for some comedy (Mythbusters) and could still be a credible, informative show. With CC, FX, or SPEED I just see it degenerating into fart jokes and boobs.
In terms of upper tier "Digital" channel selection, BBC America might work, but the exposure here is tiny, don't think many would watch it. Those that would watch Top Gear already, and the aim of this endeavor is to bring in a new audience. Sci would be nice, but there is no room for comedy, and not many people watch it. Don't know many upper tier cable channels that would work with bringing in a new audience.
As pay channels go, HBO would be nice, the short season framework fits well with the rest, and they could do what they want. Not so great for exposure though. Also, while swearing and all is in the original (by american standards), it doesn't make the show, so this should not be a driving force to put this on something like HBO.
Not sure what direction this will be headed now, or if it will even launch at all, but I only see two possibilities for success - Discovery or HBO. Nothing else will work in my opinion. I would have liked it to be on NBC, as it would be instant-exposure, but maybe we should test it out somewhere else first, make sure its actually good, before putting it up for network access.
Crossing my fingers for Discovery or HBO.