South Korean automaker Hyundai's signature sky blue and orange factory colours are prominently displayed on the recently unveiled i20 N's eye-catching livery design. During the off-season, Hyundai prioritised reducing weight to improve performance and address reliability concerns, opting for homologation jokers. The squad has taken a calculated step towards improving its heat management and exhaust systems by teaming up with the world-renowned motorcycle exhaust maker Akrapovic.
Hyundai is hell-bent on winning its first drivers' championship and ending Toyota's three-year manufacturers' championship winning streak after a season in which the South Korean automaker finished second to Toyota.
Competing under the banner of Hyundai Motorsport, the title pursuit will be led by two formidable crews: Thierry Neuville paired with Martijn Wydaeghe (#11) and Ott Tänak alongside Martin Järveoja (#8). Both partnerships are committed to a comprehensive program throughout the entirety of 2024.
Hyundai Motorsport President Cyril Abiteboul said: "This year, we want to target more frequent wins, which we hope to achieve with our refreshed driver line-up and improved Hyundai i20 N Rally1 Hybrid. Also, given the nature of the 2024 season, we believe we can fight for the drivers’ title. Ott had unfinished business with the team, and once we started talking, we realised there was a mutual interest in finishing it. Alongside Thierry, we have two drivers capable of claiming the crown. In our third car, we wanted to reward crews that we felt deserved the opportunity, as all three have shown loyalty to the team as well as impressive pace and ability over the past years. Bringing in talent in a number of areas, such as new engineers, mechanics, weather and sporting personnel, also strengthens the overall team as we look to push forward this year."
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From January 25th through the 28th, teams will embark on their annual voyage to Monte Carlo to start off the new season. At this race, the famous asphalt roads will be navigated by Neuville, Tanak, and Mikkelsen. In preparation for their forthcoming difficulties, the trio has just finished pre-event testing.
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