Using the new Countryman, MINI plans to make a comeback on the international rally circuit.
From 2011, the brand will compete at selected rounds of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC).
It will go on to contest the entire season from 2012 onwards, with involvement planned for several years.
This decision sees MINI continue its success story in the world of rallying.
In the 1960s, the Cooper S caused a sensation with victories at the legendary Monte Carlo Rally.
The company also tasted success on many occasions in the European Rally Championship.
Now, the car charged with the task is the MINI Countryman WRC, which is being developed by Prodrive in close cooperation with MINI.
Based on the production model, the heart of the racing car is a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder turbo-charged engine from BMW Motorsport.
The car complies with the new Super2000 regulations put in place by the International Automobile Federation (FIA).
These stipulate the use of turbo engines with 1,600 cc displacement and four-wheel drive combined with an increased emphasis on road relevant technologies.
A first test drive for the MINI Countryman WRC, which will also be available to customer teams, is planned for autumn 2010. |
