Hyundai Postpones 2025 WRC Car Upgrades for Safari Rally Kenya

Hyundai has chosen not to implement its 2025 WRC car upgrades for the Safari Rally in Kenya. The team will rely on the end-of-2024 specifications, focusing on reliability and performance. They have developed a new snorkel to better handle the demanding conditions of the Kenyan terrain. Historically, Hyundai has struggled in this rally, achieving only one podium finish while facing stiff competition from Toyota.

Hyundai has opted to forgo its anticipated 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) car upgrades for the upcoming Safari Rally in Kenya. This decision is part of a strategic approach to improve performance, building upon past challenges faced during this rigorous event. The South Korean automotive manufacturer will compete with three i20 N Rally1 cars, utilizing specifications from the end of the 2024 season.

Despite developing a significant upgrade package for 2025 that included enhancements to the suspension and weight, Hyundai’s team principal, Cyril Abiteboul, determined this was not the right time to introduce these updates. The decision arose from logistical challenges and the need to ensure optimal availability of components. Abiteboul reassured stakeholders that the performance would not be compromised by this choice, focusing instead on reliability and previous performance issues.

Hyundai will integrate a new snorkel design tailored for the arduous Kenyan terrain, addressing previous issues related to water and dust intake that could impair engine performance. This improved snorkel reflects the team’s commitment to enhance their vehicle’s adaptability to Kenya’s challenging environments, which include fesh-fesh sand and deep water crossings.

Historically, Kenya has proven difficult for Hyundai, with only one podium finish achieved in 2021. Their main competitor, Toyota, has dominated the event since its return in 2021. Hyundai has consistently faced reliability issues; however, they have undertaken significant work to rectify these faults in preparation for the rally. A recent pre-event test, although revealing new challenges, allowed the team to address potential reliability problems prior to the race.

The Safari Rally Kenya commences next Thursday, featuring an arduous schedule of 21 stages aimed at testing the limits of the vehicles and teams.

Hyundai’s decision to set aside its 2025 car upgrades for the Safari Rally in Kenya highlights a strategic emphasis on reliability rather than new specifications. The integration of a revised snorkel aims to bolster engine protection in the challenging Kenyan environment. Historically low podium finishes underscore the rigorous competition faced from rivals such as Toyota. Despite past setbacks, Hyundai meticulously prepares to optimize performance in one of the WRC’s most demanding events.

Original Source: www.motorsport.com