Over the years the motorsport world has witnessed its fair share of machine swaps as drivers and riders explore different disciplines. Think seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton and MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi famously experiencing their respective 2017-specification Mercedes W08 and 2019 Yamaha MotoGP YZR-M1 machines at Valencia’s Circuit Ricardo Tormo in 2019.
Hyundai is among three manufacturers, alongside Cupra and Alfa Romeo, represented in the all-electric FIA ETCR eTouring Car Cup, launched in 2021. This project runs alongside its ongoing commitment to the World Rally Championship, which boasts new-for-2022 Rally1 hybrid regulations, using hybrid vehicles powered by 100% sustainable fuels.
The i20 N Rally is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged internal combustion engine paired with a 100kW control hybrid unit, designed by Compact Dynamics. When engine and hybrid are engaged, the car is capable of producing 500 horsepower in short bursts. Hybrid boost is deployed by the use of the throttle pedal, while further boosts are unlocked through energy regeneration under braking.
"Many people underestimate this sport from the outside, but after this experience you realise that it’s something unique" “The plan was to do some laps of Zolder, but the car had the gravel set-up so I wasn’t sure what to expect. In the end Thierry was a big help, he helped me with the approach, reference points, and I realised very early that I can build the confidence to push.
Then it’s time for Michelisz to act as teacher while five-time WRC championship runner-up Neuville takes the wheel of the Veloster N ETCR machine. While Neuville has successfully raced an i30 N TCR car, and even enjoyed a win in the TCR Germany series in 2019, driving a full-electric race car is a new experience.
So could there be a career swap on the horizon? Neuville admits he would be open to contesting an ETCR race: “I have done TCR races before, but maybe in the future I will join an electric race as well.”