Hyundai commits to Pure ETCR with Farfus

Le Pure ETCR comptera au moins trois constructeurs, habitués du WTCR. Hyundai a dévoilé son engagement dans le championnat électrique à partir de 2021. La marque coréenne a présenté sa voiture à Copenhague vendredi soir, lors de la grande soirée de présentation du championnat.

« I'm really proud that Hyundai is one of the first manufacturers to take on the challenge presented by the Pure ETCR." commented Hyundai Motorsport team principal Andrea Adamo. “ The project was a technical challenge for us with brand new technology, but the performance encountered during the tests shows our capabilities. I can't wait to see her race and I think the racing format will provide some exciting weekends. »

The Veloster N ETCR will be developed by Brazilian Augusto Farfus. The official BMW GT driver completed a season in WTCR with Hyundai in 2019. Present in Copenhagen, he did a few laps at the wheel of the car in the city streets, before recharging his car on stage. The mega structure necessary for recharging will be in the center of the Pure ETCR paddock.

“The car is both very close and very far from a WTCR car” explained the Brazilian. “It's actually quite surprising when you try the machine. The architecture is similar to a TCR but basically everything is different. It is twice as fast. »

The Hyundai develops 500 kilowatts of power, or approximately 680 horsepower. “ So the first few rounds are really weird. You have to learn how to brake and find the right balance in your driving. I also tried a lot to figure out how to make the tires work. »

Goodyear will be the sole tire manufacturer. “ This championship will be a challenge for everyone, I find myself like a rookie in motorsport! »concludes Augusto Farfus.

In addition to Hyundai, the Pure ETCR will be able to count on Cupra. The Spanish brand, entered this year in the WTCR, was the first to confirm its participation. It will line up Mathias Ekström and Jordi Gené.

Two weeks ago, Romeo Ferraris also confirmed his participation with a Alfa Romeo Giulia in the hands of Frenchman Jean-Karl Vernay. “ The Pure ETCR was part of the contract I signed with Romeo Ferraris for the WTCR. It was important because I believe in the series which will bring attractive races for the fans. »

Eurosport Events, the championship promoter, took advantage of the evening to discuss the calendar for the 2021 season, which will include four races in Europe between May and August and two in another part of the world in October and November. As a reminder, the Pure ETCR will offer a race format similar to the rallycross but on urban or road circuits that we are used to seeing.

Before the launch season, an exhibition event will take place at the Adria track in Italy on November 14-15. Until then, Eurosport events hopes that other teams will join the party.

Relive the Pure ETCR presentation evening: