Hyundai Adjusts Strategy for Safari Rally Kenya by Shelving 2025 Car Upgrades
Hyundai has decided to compete in the upcoming Safari Rally Kenya without its 2025 WRC car upgrades to focus on reliability and better prepare for the challenging conditions. The cars will utilize an end-of-2024 specification with enhancements, including an improved snorkel. The team acknowledges past reliability issues and strives to overcome them during this critical event.
Hyundai has opted not to implement its 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) car upgrades for the upcoming Safari Rally in Kenya. The decision was made to field three i20 N Rally1 vehicles configured to the specifications from the conclusion of the 2024 season, excluding the hybrid unit and adhering to the air restrictor modifications as per the 2025 technical regulations. Team principal Cyril Abiteboul expressed confidence in this strategy, believing it is a better choice for the event’s challenging conditions.
Despite having debuted a significant upgrade package in Sweden last month, which introduced a redesigned suspension and weight reductions for drivers Thierry Neuville, Ott Tanak, and Adrien Fourmaux, factors influenced Hyundai’s decision to use the previous model in Kenya. The team aims to optimize the availability of parts and assess the reliability of each component following a demanding winter period of development.
Abiteboul highlighted that the car to be used in Kenya reflects modifications made after the previous year’s issues, particularly those related to the transmission. He asserted that this choice allows the team to focus on reliability while there should be no significant impact on performance. He noted, “We don’t think that in terms of performance there will be any deficit or make a big difference.”
Furthermore, while the 2025 updates will not be featured, the team has developed a revised snorkel designed specifically for the grueling conditions of the Safari Rally, enhancing engine protection from water and dust contaminants. Abiteboul remarked, “We will have a better example of the one we used last year.”
Hyundai has faced challenges in the Safari Rally, managing only one podium finish in their four attempts. The team has acknowledged that reliability issues have hindered their performance in Kenya. Abiteboul reaffirmed that solutions have been implemented for past problems, especially after a pre-event test pointed to lingering electrical issues that required attention. He remains hopeful about the improvements made ahead of the rally, which is set to commence next Thursday.
In conclusion, Hyundai’s decision to forgo the 2025 WRC car upgrades for the Safari Rally Kenya stems from a desire to enhance reliability and optimize part availability following a thorough preparation period. The team aims to tackle the demanding conditions of the event with improved strategies, including a modified snorkel for engine protection. Challenges previously encountered in Kenya are being systematically addressed to enhance performance in this prestigious rally.
Original Source: www.motorsport.com
