Since the beginning of 2024, Rally Poland will showcase a Rally1 car without hybrid assistance for the first time. M?rti?š Sesks, a Latvian driver, will be behind the wheel for this historic event as he makes his debut in top-level machinery. This race in Poland will serve as a prelude for Sesks before he competes in Rally Latvia with the hybrid system reinstalled. It will be interesting to see how much of a difference the 135bhp hybrid boost makes in terms of overall performance during his run in Poland.
M-Sport team principal, Rich Millener, shared insights on the process of removing the hybrid system from the Puma and its impact on performance. Despite the complexities involved in removing a battery, electric motor, and associated electronics, Millener mentioned that it doesn’t pose a significant challenge for the team. By replacing the hybrid unit with a ballast block and making minor adjustments, the car’s appearance remains largely unchanged. The absence of the hybrid system also eliminates the need for specific safety protocols during servicing.
In terms of performance, Millener predicts that Sesks’ car will fall between Rally1 and Rally2 cars in terms of speed and handling. While it may not match the power of a Rally1 hybrid, it offers better handling and suspension than a Rally2 car. Millener emphasized that the absence of hybrid assistance shouldn’t drastically impact Sesks’ performance, especially on faster rallies where hybrid usage is minimal.
Looking ahead to Rally Latvia, Sesks will have the opportunity to experience the full potential of the Puma with the hybrid system reinstalled. The process of reinstallation is straightforward, as M-Sport will only need to make minimal adjustments after the Poland event. Millener highlighted the ease of switching between hybrid and non-hybrid specifications, showcasing the versatility of Rally1 cars for potential customers.
By demonstrating the feasibility of running a Rally1 car in either hybrid or non-hybrid configuration, M-Sport aims to attract more customers to the sport. Millener’s hope is that Sesks’ positive experiences with the car will inspire other drivers to consider investing in a Rally1 car for their national championships. The flexibility of these cars in adapting to different specifications opens up new possibilities for both professional drivers and enthusiasts alike.
In conclusion, Sesks’ upcoming run in Rally Poland without hybrid assistance marks a significant moment in the evolution of Rally1 cars. It showcases the adaptability and performance capabilities of these vehicles while highlighting the potential for drivers to customize their racing experience based on their preferences. As the sport continues to evolve, the future of rally cars looks promising with innovations that cater to a wide range of drivers and competitions.