Thierry to drive Veloster N ETCR at Race of Belgium – Zolder
Our 2022 WRC and ETCR machines will come together for the first time at a special event at Circuit Zolder, the fourth round of FIA ETCR, next month (July 8-10). The showcase at the Circuit Zolder will see Thierry get behind the wheel of our all-electric Veloster N ETCR while Norbert takes control of the hybrid-powered i20 N Rally1.
“Electric power in racing is a new, but crucial pillar to our work at Hyundai Motorsport,” said Julien, our Deputy Team Principal. “To demonstrate both the i20 N Rally1 and Veloster N ETCR together is a great opportunity.”
Power pioneers
As an organisation, we have fully embraced the challenges of full-electric and hybrid racing. We were one of the first to commit to the new ETCR regulations in 2018, and are one of three manufacturers in the debut season of the Rally1 era of WRC.
Both the i20 N Rally 1 and the Veloster N ETCR have already enjoyed success this year, with our rally machine securing a win and six podiums across five events, including two with Thierry in the driver’s seat. Our electric touring car started its season of competition with a pole position and race win at Race FR Pau – the latter coming for Norbert in the Semi-Final round.
Ready to entertain
For Belgian fans, the visit of our Rally1 car provides a teaser for the WRC’s Ypres Rally in August, when Thierry and co-driver Martijn will aim to defend the home victory they accomplished in 2021. Meanwhile, FIA ETCR’s visit to Belgium is the first by an FIA all-electric race series to the country, as the category continues to grow worldwide.
An exciting prospect for all involved, nobody is looking forward to the experience more than the two drivers.
“The car swap in Zolder should be a lot of fun for me and Norbi as drivers – but also for the spectators,” said Thierry. “It will nice to bring somebody new into ‘my office’ and see his reaction to the latest breed of WRC cars while we put on a show for the Belgian fans.”
“It’s going to be a very interesting experience to drive the Hyundai i20 N Rally1,” added Norbert. “Driving in FIA ETCR this year is my first season racing with electric power, so the car swap will be my first time with a hybrid motorsport car”
