with power but more over we like the noise, tomorrow I am sure the spectators will be impressed by the massive torque/Power output you mention, but also the futuristic noise of high performance electric motors.
You’ve mentioned that the torque output would potentially make a co-driver sick in a rally sprint situation. Would de-tuning these cars be an option is such circumstances or place an impetus on the abilities of the co-driver?
I am not worried, as drivers adapt to these cars also co-driver will do and the de-tuning on Rally cars will come automatically with the energy management.
The format of rallycross seems well-suited to electric technology - enabling crews to change battery packs without impacting on the competition like in Formula E?
It's fair to say the RX is 110% perfect for E-Racing but also other E competitions will manage sooner or later that the batteries change or charging has no effect in the race.
With the extreme power these cars are producing, what are your estimates on battery life?
This is extreme depending on the specification, application, and life cycle of the batteries. In general, for very high performance applications, where the batteries run up to their maximum power delivery you can expect them to last for between 1000-2000 cycles depending on the acutal usage profile before replacement is needed.
Volkswagen have expressed an interest in electric rallycross. Have you engaged in any discussions as yet?
We are in contact with different OEM´s incl. VW
Red Bull Global Rallycross have announced their own EV class for 2018. Do you expect there to be a rush of categories to become the ‘premier’ electric rallycross category?
My feeling is that after our anouncment of the Hiper MK 1 there is a rush all around the world for Rallycross category´s! it feels good to still be the world first ones, even though we had the basic idea already 7 years ago.
With autonomous vehicles destined to have a big impact on the commercial automotive market, do you expect Rallycross is well poised to capitalize on what could result in a dwindling interest in touring cars?
Motorsport is mainly entertainment and I see autonomous drive as a part of that show in the future. Let´s say in RX for example the cars could go on their own to the start grid, or the winning drivers celebration Lap could take place autonomuously.
So yes, also here the match RX and future technology is perfect. Given the great format when it comes to broadcasting, live audience and action packed short intensive events, I do see a bright future for RX, hopefully not on the cost of any other racing category.
Images: STARD