VW News 2012 & WRC 2013

[Ralph-Mario]

Yes. In addition, there Dani and from '13, only three exploits.
If yes really exciting .... Good night WRC.... :(

[EightGear]

As far as I understand, VW will have at least 1 junior driver in a Polo next year.

[DonJippo]

Why couldn't they give Andreas the seat? What more does he have to prove?

He has not really proven anything on WRC yet, his time might come later but he is not yet ready for works team.

[Ralph-Mario]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=mMP6uI0ffO0

[tfp]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=mMP6uI0ffO0

Nice :D

No matter how much talking we do on the forum about VW, when you actually see the fruits of their labours so far going sideways on sandy gravel, it is soooo much better :D

[Plan9]

He has not really proven anything on WRC yet, his time might come later but he is not yet ready for works team.

That's a good point. I guess as he has been granted basically a free hand in the IRC now it makes you think he is up to something good now that Juho's "star is fading" at VW. By the way do you know what Juho did wrong for VAG to lose interest in him?

[A.F.F.]

That's a good point. I guess as he has been granted basically a free hand in the IRC now it makes you think he is up to something good now that Juho's "star is fading" at VW. By the way do you know what Juho did wrong for VAG to lose interest in him?

He did too good with Skoda ;)

[Plan9]

Lol! Well he seems to be rectifying that now (look at the IRC opener)

[A.F.F.]

Exactly ;)

[RS]

That's a good point. I guess as he has been granted basically a free hand in the IRC now it makes you think he is up to something good now that Juho's "star is fading" at VW. By the way do you know what Juho did wrong for VAG to lose interest in him?

Being older and slower than Mikkelsen and still making too many mistakes?

I really like Juho so that probably sounds too harsh but I am guessing that is their thinking. I hope he does get a works WRC drive somewhere in the future though, maybe even with VW in a "b-team", as he couldn't really be called a junior any more.

[Martin Luijk]

I think two drivers have lost interest of Volkwagen this rally. Atkinson and Latvala didn't do a very good job. Kevin Abbring meanwhile did a good job, but the technique let him down.

[RS]

I think two drivers have lost interest of Volkwagen this rally. Atkinson and Latvala didn't do a very good job. Kevin Abbring meanwhile did a good job, but the technique let him down.

Yes, I guess some guys will be hoping the ink really has dried on JMLs VW contract already.

Atkinson is probably another one to add to the long list of the lost generation of drivers-with-potential-but-nowhere-to-drive unfortunately :(

[MJW]

Yes, I guess some guys will be hoping the ink really has dried on JMLs VW contract :( :-) no worries

[Plan9]

Yes, I guess some guys will be hoping the ink really has dried on JMLs VW contract already.

Atkinson is probably another one to add to the long list of the lost generation of drivers-with-potential-but-nowhere-to-drive unfortunately :(

I just hope they don't call the VW b team something like "junior" as it would not make sense if Juho had anything to do with it (he is in his 30s not a junior by any stretch).

As for JML, Juho, Chris and Dani etc I don't think we have the full story about drivers VW are evaluating.

Yes that list is getting long now. I wonder if it would be different if people like him and Meeke could attract personal backing. Besides one event would not have been enough for VW to offer Chris a contract.

[Andre Oliveira]

Any news about Polo test in Portugal?

[mousti]

Not much, seems VW asked the people on the test stage, to not publish any videos or photos..

[Andre Oliveira]

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/523242_245958952167556_178813628882089_473912_1852 522754_n.jpg

[Plan9]

VW are not coming to NZ according to maxrally.co.uk. Just focussing on testing in Europe

[A FONDO]

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150661926473952&set=a.334989268951.153758.334811638951&type=1

[dimviii]

Test 2012 Volkswagen Polo R WRC. - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVF3uyQCbxk&feature=player_embedded)

[Allyc85]

Looks and sounds great :D

Going by that video they must be 0.2-0.3 seconds faster per KM than Citreon ;)

[pettersolberg29]

Going by that video they must be 0.2-0.3 seconds faster per KM than Citreon ;)

At least. Nearer 0.4s/km from my judgement ;)

[Sulland]

Any other drivers apart from Ogier and a bit Sainz that has been part of the Polo Wrc testing ?

Maybe a good thing to get inputs from other drivers with different styles, to get a car that can be fast for more than one driver?

[Mirek]

Depping, Hänninen sure did some testing for VW. Maybe also Abbring and Mikkelsen. I don't know.

[Rallyper]

Any other drivers apart from Ogier and a bit Sainz that has been part of the Polo Wrc testing ?

Maybe a good thing to get inputs from other drivers with different styles, to get a car that can be fast for more than one driver?

If the car is good enough (which I think it will be) any driver will be fast in it.

[N.O.T]

If the car is good enough (which I think it will be) any driver will be fast in it.

in F1 yes...in rallying no.

[Rallyper]

in F1 yes...in rallying no.

He he, please explain. I don´t understand...

[N.O.T]

He he, please explain. I don´t understand...

Rallying is far more versatile sport than going in cyrcles and tackling the same corner 50-60 times....Thus driver input matters far more than in F1...put a baboon in an F1 car and he will win if the car is a winner...put kimi raikonen in a rally car and...well....you get the picture.

and to stay on topic before Brother john unleashes the spanish inquisition on me...the video is nice and the team handles their involvement quite professionally, having a test almost after each event on diverse conditions...rallying needs VW to succeed.

[6789]

Nice video! Sainz is such a boss getting a chopper straight to the testing location. VW are looking good, hopefully they can debut at the end of 2012

[A.F.F.]

Rallying is far more versatile sport than going in cyrcles and tackling the same corner 50-60 times....Thus driver input matters far more than in F1...put a baboon in an F1 car and he will win if the car is a winner...put kimi raikonen in a rally car and...well....you get the picture.

and to stay on topic before Brother john unleashes the spanish inquisition on me...the video is nice and the team handles their involvement quite professionally, having a test almost after each event on diverse conditions...rallying needs VW to succeed.

I'm a rallyfan, pure heart and couldn't care less about F1 BUT, I've seen a few F1 drivers testing a rallycar and vice versa. What I've witness, F1 drivers have made relatively good stage runs taking in consideration how little expereince they have. And then I've seen rally drivers trying to launch F1-car and fail.... so who are the baboons again??

[N.O.T]

who are the baboons again??

the F1 drivers.

[DonJippo]

I'm a rallyfan, pure heart and couldn't care less about F1 BUT, I've seen a few F1 drivers testing a rallycar and vice versa. What I've witness, F1 drivers have made relatively good stage runs taking in consideration how little expereince they have. And then I've seen rally drivers trying to launch F1-car and fail.... so who are the baboons again??

It would be interesting to see how they all would do without notes and co-drivers on a new stage...

[uranium]

It would be interesting to see how they all would do without notes and co-drivers on a new stage...

...and driver eyes are closed ;)

[Mise]

In Vauhdin Maailma Kaj Lindström said they (he and Kimi) were the fastest on Citroen tarmac test stage.
The stuff of Citroen were also very impressed how little Kimi weared the tyres.

So the pure driving speed is there, but driving from the note isn't.

[uranium]

I suppose the car is preparing for rally, but not for circuit?

[uranium]

In Vauhdin Maailma Kaj Lindström said they (he and Kimi) were the fastest on Citroen tarmac test stage.

Kimi is fast on circuit, who says opposite. Anyway his rally experience shows that rally is a bit different thing.

[Francis44]

I'm a rallyfan, pure heart and couldn't care less about F1 BUT, I've seen a few F1 drivers testing a rallycar and vice versa. What I've witness, F1 drivers have made relatively good stage runs taking in consideration how little expereince they have. And then I've seen rally drivers trying to launch F1-car and fail.... so who are the baboons again??

That's a bit harsh. I've seen so much examples of rally drivers having sucess on circuits, not always in F1, but in circuit racing. Most recently Sebastien Loeb and Ogier humiliated some circuit professional drivers in a race in France last year in small formula cars.

[AMSS]

Actually there was one French rally driver who finished 5th or 6th in F1 barcelona test some years ago..
This must be the first time I agree with NOT :s statement(though without the flamboyant style..)


I'm a rallyfan, pure heart and couldn't care less about F1 BUT, I've seen a few F1 drivers testing a rallycar and vice versa. What I've witness, F1 drivers have made relatively good stage runs taking in consideration how little expereince they have. And then I've seen rally drivers trying to launch F1-car and fail.... so who are the baboons again??

[A.F.F.]

That's a bit harsh. I've seen so much examples of rally drivers having sucess on circuits, not always in F1, but in circuit racing. Most recently Sebastien Loeb and Ogier humiliated some circuit professional drivers in a race in France last year in small formula cars.

My comment was a response, conserning precisely F1.

[Maxi]

Also Ogier won the race of champions, beating drivers like Vettel a Schumi.

[tfp]

I'm a rallyfan, pure heart and couldn't care less about F1 BUT, I've seen a few F1 drivers testing a rallycar and vice versa. What I've witness, F1 drivers have made relatively good stage runs taking in consideration how little expereince they have. And then I've seen rally drivers trying to launch F1-car and fail.... so who are the baboons again??

I dont know about that :D

colin mcrae testing jordan formula 1 car 1996 - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PL6QySEfK0Q)

very nice!http://www.50centloseweight.com

[Barreis]

I dont know about that :D

colin mcrae testing jordan formula 1 car 1996 - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PL6QySEfK0Q)

Road Car vs rally car vs f1 car - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-thgGA5Qsx0&feature=related)

[T.Maanteiden kuningas]

Also Ogier won the race of champions, beating drivers like Vettel a Schumi.

Kovalainen "f1 baboon" beat Loeb in ROC final..cars was some Ferrari and 307 WRC.

[Rallyper]

"Roadking" - you have a point. ;)

[tfp]

Road Car vs rally car vs f1 car - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-thgGA5Qsx0&feature=related)


Nice :)

ford focus wrc VS redbull f1 VS plane - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zsvLAjAZXbg)

[A FONDO]

Let they run a test on muddy forest stages too :)

[ToughMac]

Don't forget Stephan Sarrazin, he was fairly handy in both disciplines.

[Barreis]

Don't forget Stephan Sarrazin, he was fairly handy in both disciplines.

He had great drives with subaru.

[A FONDO]

quote from FIA World Rally Championship - Summary of Regulation Changes for 2012 (http://www.fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wrc/2012/Pages/2012-wrc-regs.aspx)


Exceptionally, in the first Championship year of homologation, a new manufacturer may register as a WRC Team and score Manufacturers’ points on a maximum of seven nominated rallies.Does it mean (if unchanged in the winter of course) that VW will not collect manu points from all 13 events next year? AFAIK they dont have any homologation yet in order to evade test restrictions?

[rallyfiend]

quote from FIA World Rally Championship - Summary of Regulation Changes for 2012 (http://www.fia.com/en-GB/mediacentre/pressreleases/wrc/2012/Pages/2012-wrc-regs.aspx)

Does it mean (if unchanged in the winter of course) that VW will not collect manu points from all 13 events next year? AFAIK they dont have any homologation yet in order to evade test restrictions?

I think you'll find that's the 'Mini' rule for this year after Prodrive admitted they didn't have the cash to run a full programme and tried to bully BMW in to stumping up more cash.

VW will register as a full manufacturer.

[fegh]

Latvala signed with VW ? ???? anyone heard of that ?

WRC : Latvala et Volkswagen, deal done? | le blog auto (http://www.leblogauto.com/2012/04/wrc-latvala-et-volkswagen-deal-done.html)

[EuroTroll]

Latvala signed with VW ? ???? anyone heard of that ?

Shocking! :eek: :eek:

:p :

[A.F.F.]

I heard Mini come back to WRC !!!!
















And then go away.....

[Plan9]

Latvala signed with VW ? ???? anyone heard of that ?

WRC : Latvala et Volkswagen, deal done? | le blog auto (http://www.leblogauto.com/2012/04/wrc-latvala-et-volkswagen-deal-done.html)

Seeing more and more of these. You should read this article about JML's replacement at Ford WRT, maybe a bit ambitious....

http://www.worldrallyblog.com/2012/04/06/thoughts/can-novikov-replace-jml-at-ford/

[tfp]

Seeing more and more of these. You should read this article about JML's replacement at Ford WRT, maybe a bit ambitious....

http://www.worldrallyblog.com/2012/04/06/thoughts/can-novikov-replace-jml-at-ford/

Ow...I would pick Ostberg any day over Novikov, but lets wait and see this season out!

I still cant see JML at VW, I can see fireworks between him and Ogier, and big losses of championship points when the pair are way ahead of the rest ad push each other into mistakes like Citroen in Oz last year!

[grugsticles]

Ow...I would pick Ostberg any day over Novikov, but lets wait and see this season out!

I still cant see JML at VW, I can see fireworks between him and Ogier, and big losses of championship points when the pair are way ahead of the rest ad push each other into mistakes like Citroen in Oz last year!

I agree on the Ostberg > Novikov point. Without a doubt Mads is the better driver when it comes to a teams championship bid.
I also agree the lack of good chemistry that could be evident if JML and Ogier were team mates. Then again, the exact opposite might occur. Who knows?
I think in terms of his career, JML needs a change and another perspective so swapping teams could be quite beneficial.

If JML did leave Ford that might open the opportunity for Atkinson to join Petter. I actually think that would be M-Sport's best bet, finances aside.
Perhaps Meeke might even get a look in if he can cut ties with Prodrive, but Im not convinced that Meeke would get more points than Atkinson in terms of the manufactures championship.

[dimviii]

I agree on the Ostberg > Novikov point. Without a doubt Mads is the better driver when it comes to a teams championship bid.
I also agree the lack of good chemistry that could be evident if JML and Ogier were team mates. Then again, the exact opposite might occur. Who knows?
I think in terms of his career, JML needs a change and another perspective so swapping teams could be quite beneficial.


with all this up/down from him, i doubt if he was in another team, would be still in service.

[Rallyper]

Don´t forget PG....

[traxx]

What do you think about possible VW retirement due to TV right issues ? I cannot believe this story after all this work !
Sorry, in french... Polo R WRC : mort-née ou arme absolue ? (http://www.worldrallyisfree.com/2012/04/11/polo-r-wrc-mort-nee-ou-arme-absolue/)

[Plan9]

I agree on the Ostberg > Novikov point. Without a doubt Mads is the better driver when it comes to a teams championship bid.
I also agree the lack of good chemistry that could be evident if JML and Ogier were team mates. Then again, the exact opposite might occur. Who knows?
I think in terms of his career, JML needs a change and another perspective so swapping teams could be quite beneficial.

If JML did leave Ford that might open the opportunity for Atkinson to join Petter. I actually think that would be M-Sport's best bet, finances aside.
Perhaps Meeke might even get a look in if he can cut ties with Prodrive, but Im not convinced that Meeke would get more points than Atkinson in terms of the manufactures championship.

Novikov seems to have rubles to burn though. I was thinking maybe Ford takes him as it may need some more sponsorship to continue? Remember they do not have Khalid any more.

JML-Ogier is true. I am sure they would get on okay but both are too crash prone. Definitley wise to have a consistent performer. I don't know what swapping teams would do for JML?

Any JML replacement would need personal backing I think. Although Kris and Chris would be fun to see with Petter.

[6789]

Nice video of VW so in the WRC - Volkswagen Motorsport: It's all about Teamwork - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9KTBDxhkKE)

Fingers crossed for an entry this year!

[Red bull]

MaxRally | News | Ogier pushes early Polo debut, Capito not so sure (http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/ogier_pushes_early_polo_debut_capito_not_so_sure/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter)

[Kielder]

MaxRally | News | Ogier pushes early Polo debut, Capito not so sure (http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/ogier_pushes_early_polo_debut_capito_not_so_sure/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter)

Ogier: "I hope we’ll be able to participate in the last few rounds of the WRC with the Polo". :D

[Rallyper]

Ogier: "I hope we’ll be able to participate in the last few rounds of the WRC with the Polo". :D

That should start with NORF, in my opinion. No one can come there unexperienced (with a new WRC-car)

[Red bull]

VW POSSIBLE 2012 DEBUTE http://www.worldrallyblog.com/2012/05/18/wrc-news/volkswagen-keeps-teasing-with-possible-2012-wrc-debut/

[Rallyper]

It will be Monte Carlo 2013... Some journalists seem to make up news when there is no news...

My quote is still valid. VW should do NORF in some way with WRC-car.

[Kielder]

It will be Monte Carlo 2013... Some journalists seem to make up news when there is no news...

If a start this year depends on the pace of the development of the Polo, as Capito's claimed, they won't wait until next year. Despite not having the car, they didn't wait for doing the WRC. Now the car is ready (at least for a podium), the event of the debut will depend on the availability of the homologation .

[Plan9]

VW is doing the WRC even more favors, first it enters and now it has made an awesome car promoting the series. I just hope the Polo R is as good and Giltrap brings it down to NZ:

Polo R WRC: too-too-too powerful - BBC Top Gear (http://www.topgear.com/uk/car-news/volkswagen-polo-r-wrc-street-concept-worthersee-2012-05-17)

[Brother John]

VW is doing the WRC even more favors, first it enters and now it has made an awesome car promoting the series. I just hope the Polo R is as good and Giltrap brings it down to NZ:

Polo R WRC: too-too-too powerful - BBC Top Gear (http://www.topgear.com/uk/car-news/volkswagen-polo-r-wrc-street-concept-worthersee-2012-05-17)

Already for years I try here to explain that many rally cars are too fast. If that Polo has so much as the 252bhp Audi A1 Quattro, and only on the front wheels, we will have more black in rallying weekends like last weekend.

Do not get me wrong I'm still a big rally fan but there must be something else happening than just big business.

[Mirek]

Sorry, are You serious? :eek:

[6789]

Already for years I try here to explain that many rally cars are too fast. If that Polo has so much as the 252bhp Audi A1 Quattro, and only on the front wheels, we will have more black in rallying weekends like last weekend.

Do not get me wrong I'm still a big rally fan but there must be something else happening than just big business.

I'm pretty sure that the car the article is referring to is a road car as well

[Plan9]

This new Polo is wonderful but I don't think it is quite a Lancia S4 Delta. I am not sure we need to worry about another Henri Toivonen just yet.

[A FONDO]

Looks like VW is going to build Polo R2 too :)

DMACK CUP - - (http://www.almrally.ru/news-command/info/8062/)

[Gregor-y]

A Golf GTI motor in a Polo? That's brilliant.

[wrchirek]

IF they (VW) should enter Polo WRC still in 2012 for one ore more rallies, will they allowed to change the homologation of the car from January 2013? If no, I think they won't start in this year.

[wrchirek]

Homologation is for next year, they will not drive the Polo WRC in competition this year but they are having a test after almost every event in the region of that event. They will be well prepared, don't be afraid...

I think that everybody is sure that VW will be well prepared, they have about 60 test days this year. My question was about the homologation.

[Mirek]

You don't need to "order" homologation a half year in advance. You just need to deliver all necessary documents to FIA in time for Your planned homologation date.

[Sulland]

What do a factory entering WRC or IRC have to loose to homologate and start in real rallies in paralell with testing, compared to just testing and start rallying in the season you need to score points?

[Mirek]

Yes, sure. Parts have a homologation cycle. For example You can homologate something once per year. Than when You homologate it now in June You have to wait with next step until next June. Homologation of the part half a year before You actually start competing isn't clever in my opinion because it very much limits the development You can do in that upcoming half-year.

There are other points - homologation documents are public so You give some of Your knowhow to other teams in time they still have plenty of time to study it and react.
Also when You homologate the car You are obliged to make it available for privateers in some reasonable time. With that You again loose the possible surprise effect You can bring with homologation in January.

[MartijnS]

Abbring is going to test the Polo WRC for the first time at the end of this month and will be a VW Junior again next year.

[HaCo]

Very nice for the Dutchman!

Verstuurd van mijn MT15i met Tapatalk

[stefanvv]

Abbring is going to test the Polo WRC for the first time at the end of this month and will be a VW Junior again next year.

What happened to Mikkelsen? or VW will run more cars?

[MartijnS]

Dont know, but just saw this article:

VW to field three Polos in 2012; Latvala and Sordo favoured to join Ogier | Motors TV (http://www.motorstv.com/car/rally/wrc/19072012/vw-field-three-polos-in-2012-latvala-and-sordo-favoured-join-ogier)

[jbmarcus21]

VW testing gravel with Polo Wrc & Ogier this week in France : full gallery photo Image (http://planetemarcus.free.fr/testdaysvw0712.htm)

http://img40.imageshack.us/img40/687/5421nz.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/40/5421nz.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

[MartijnS]

Wiegand will drive a Fabia as third official VW driver in Germany next to Ogier and Mikkelsen.

[Plan9]

How does Dani benefit by being possibly a third wheel to the Seb and Jari show at VW (if these rumors are even slightly accurate); as opposed to staying with whatever Mini crawls into the barn with next year where he would be the top man.

[stefanvv]

How does Dani benefit by being possibly a third wheel to the Seb and Jari show at VW (if these rumors are even slightly accurate); as opposed to staying with whatever Mini crawls into the barn with next year where he would be the top man.

Driving full season for example.

[N.O.T]

and quite possibly him being No 2 instead of 3.

[Barreis]

Fastest tarmac driver without win?!

[Plan9]

Would be cool if this happened. Didn't someone from VW HQ confirm that there was only going to be 2 Polo's next year?

[MJW]

From the 4th round of the championship they now say 3 cars. However, if FIA re-introduce the three car team it could be all season. Some speculation that FIA may insist on the 3rd car being driven by a young driver, Mikkelsen? Or if there is no restriction on age maybe Sordo. All that I am hearing about VW points to Ogier, Latvala and Mikkelssen.

[skarderud]

Rumours on a norwegian forum that Mikkelsen is signed with vw :)

[N.O.T]

Rumours on a norwegian forum that Mikkelsen is signed with vw :)

This is no rumour... they signed him long time ago... the question is for 2nd or 3rd supporting driver ?

[AndyRAC]

I'm sure he already has a contract with Volkswagen UK....even though he is driving a Skoda UK car.

However, Ogier, Mikkelsen & Sordo/ Latvala would be a good set up. Personally, I'd have Sordo over Latvala....guaranteed solid finishes to back up Ogier. Can Latvala be trusted over a season to rack up points? Though, sooner or later the penny must drop with him.

[N.O.T]

Latvala is a good choice from a financial point of view... with him it is one car less to maintain and run... he has a good manager.

[Rallyper]

And I think Latvala playing the second fiddle is suiting him best.

[danon]

VW Obsession - a song text project

No doubt at all, they'll win it all.
Just watch it roll to a bigger ball.
........................... a rocky wall.
(add your text)

[N.O.T]

And I think Latvala playing the second fiddle is suiting him best.

how many championships did ford win with Latvala second fiddle ???

Exactly...

With Ogier and Latvala in the same team it will be a very interesting season next year and it will definately test the budget of the VW team... if the rumours are true of course.

[stefanvv]

I think VW are making the right move with Latvalla. Citroen will be finally dethroned 2013.

[N.O.T]

I think VW are making the right move with Latvalla. Citroen will be finally dethroned 2013.

No.

[dimviii]

I think VW are making the right move with Latvalla. Citroen will be finally dethroned 2013.

dont agree at all.Dont forget also that while Malcolm is patient with ''cheap''Jaris endless exits,is not going to be same with Vw.
Dani was a better choice imho at all levels.

[N.O.T]

Dont forget also that while Malcolm is patient with ''cheap''Jaris endless exits,is not going to be same with Vw.

this is not going to change, Latvala has strong financial backing...

[rallyfiend]

I think VW are making the right move with Latvalla. Citroen will be finally dethroned 2013.

Only because they won't be in the WRC.

Unfortunately.

[rallyfiend]

Latvala is a good choice from a financial point of view... with him it is one car less to maintain and run... he has a good manager.

VW are not worried about finance.

They are in the WRC to win and will spend what it takes.

[N.O.T]

VW are not worried about finance.

They are in the WRC to win and will spend what it takes.

No.

[danon]

VW are not worried about finance.

They are in the WRC to win and will spend what it takes.

... to get more :D

[MartijnS]

Abbring said to Dutch tv this weekend in Germany that he will be driving an equal amount of rallies as Mikkelsen next year.

[Juha_Koo]

Abbring said to Dutch tv this weekend in Germany that he will be driving an equal amount of rallies as Mikkelsen next year.

Let's see for how long Hänninen has the motivation to drive to dominant victories in European village rallies... (Yes, I did aggravate a bit.)

[tolis]

Let's see for how long Hänninen has the motivation to drive to dominant victories in European village rallies... (Yes, I did aggravate a bit.)
I agree with you, but I think the reason why VW didn't get Juho is that he is "old" for them.

[EightGear]

Let's see for how long Hänninen has the motivation to drive to dominant victories in European village rallies... (Yes, I did aggravate a bit.)

In what way do you think Hanninen has any influence on Abbring?

[tfp]

Why would VW need Latvala? They already have Ogier to win the drivers championship, and Mikkelsen to (help) win the manufacturers champ. I dont see why they would need Latvala?

If there is any link with Latvala to VW it would make sense that Jari is approaching VW and not VW approaching Jari. I say this because of the rumours of Ford switching to IRC and MW being unhappy with the short, fat idiot Todt and how he handled the TV coverage thing.

Maybe JML approach VW because he wants to stay in WRC and not compete in an S2000 car?

Thats my theory anyway :)

[rallyfiend]

Why would VW need Latvala? They already have Ogier to win the drivers championship, and Mikkelsen to (help) win the manufacturers champ. I dont see why they would need Latvala?

If there is any link with Latvala to VW it would make sense that Jari is approaching VW and not VW approaching Jari. I say this because of the rumours of Ford switching to IRC and MW being unhappy with the short, fat idiot Todt and how he handled the TV coverage thing.

Maybe JML approach VW because he wants to stay in WRC and not compete in an S2000 car?

Thats my theory anyway :)

If Ford leave the WRC, it's because they're leaving the sport, not because they're moving to another branch of the sport. There is no chance Ford of Europe would fund anything other than World Championship level motorsport.

I am of course saying 'Ford', not M-Sport.

If Ford leave, then M-Sport will go wherever there is customers.

[noel157]

Why would VW need Latvala? They already have Ogier to win the drivers championship, and Mikkelsen to (help) win the manufacturers champ. I dont see why they would need Latvala?

If there is any link with Latvala to VW it would make sense that Jari is approaching VW and not VW approaching Jari. I say this because of the rumours of Ford switching to IRC and MW being unhappy with the short, fat idiot Todt and how he handled the TV coverage thing.

Maybe JML approach VW because he wants to stay in WRC and not compete in an S2000 car?

Thats my theory anyway :)

VW approached Latvala last season.

[Mirek]

M-Sport can successfully do both series. I can imagine larger IRC program with Basso, Flodin or another driver next year but as You said I also don't think Ford would go there with the official team.

[tfp]

If Ford leave the WRC, it's because they're leaving the sport, not because they're moving to another branch of the sport. There is no chance Ford of Europe would fund anything other than World Championship level motorsport.

I am of course saying 'Ford', not M-Sport.

If Ford leave, then M-Sport will go wherever there is customers.


That makes sense, Ford want maximum exposure like any manufacturer. But I wonder about the TV ratings? Maybe exposure wise there isnt much difference between the two series?

[tfp]

VW approached Latvala last season.

But was that before the multi-million euro deal with Ogier?


M-Sport can successfully do both series. I can imagine larger IRC program with Basso, Flodin or another driver next year but as You said I also don't think Ford would go there with the official team.

Or do both, why not, if there is money to be made, more than likely MW would be there :D

[N.O.T]

Latvala is a nice source of money for any team and he is fast... he just is not top level when it comes to the full package.

[Francis44]

I still think they'd be better off with Sordo, Ogier-Latvala is a too much explosive combination.

[kober]

Latvala is a nice source of money for any team [...]Could you please remind us from where Latvala's money come from?

[Mirek]

I still think they'd be better off with Sordo, Ogier-Latvala is a too much explosive combination.

Ogier - Latvala - Mikkelsen looks like a perfect crash test team :D

[N.O.T]

Could you please remind us from where Latvala's money come from?

sponsors

[A.F.F.]

sponsors

:laugh:

On serious note, you're so wrong. Latvala family has a magic tree in their yard where the money grows on.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Ogier - Latvala - Mikkelsen looks like a perfect crash test team :D
But can they take three full-time drivers?

[rp]

But can they take three full-time drivers?

Abbring said that he will share the third car with Mikkelsen...

[Mirek]

Yes, I just didn't name him in the trio as I don't remember some big crashes from him :)

[noel157]

But was that before the multi-million euro deal with Ogier?





I believe first approach from VW was at NORF last season.

[EightGear]

Abbring didn't say he will share a car with Mikkelsen, only that they will drive an equal amount of events. Maybe another season in a Fabia?

[Andre Oliveira]

Or a Polo S1600T, because VW must homologate one before WRC.

[rp]

Abbring didn't say he will share a car with Mikkelsen, only that they will drive an equal amount of events. Maybe another season in a Fabia?

I don´t think so, but we will see. At least Mikkelsen is ready to drive World Rally Car, but it would be better for Abbring to drive Fabia (maybe IRC) and same for Wiegand also. Maybe couple of events with the Polo...

[Plan9]

Why would VW even want to have 2 drivers like JML and Ogier together? It would be Colin and Carlos at Subaru all over again...

[Prisoner Monkeys]

I can't see Latvala and Ogier working as a driver combination.

If I were in Volkswagen's shoes, I'd be looking at getting Mads Ostberg in. He's young and he's fast, and he's a lot more refined than the likes of Tanak

If Ostberg wasn't available, I'd be looking at Theirry Neuville. Citroen evidently think highly of him, which would make luring him over that much more difficult, but for Volkswagen to poach two of Citroen's biggest stars would a major coup.

My third choice would be the eternal journeyman, Chris Atkinson (the Atko we saw in Germany, not the Atko in Finland). I think he's a solid, dependable choice who knows when to push for position, but doesn't get carried away by his own success.

I'd also look at setting up a customer team like M-Sport and picking out a couple of rising stars there - maybe put Hayden Paddon and Craig Breen together in a team with a view to promoting them to a works drive at some point in the future.

[Rallyper]

I can't see Latvala and Ogier working as a driver combination.

If I were in Volkswagen's shoes, I'd be looking at getting Mads Ostberg in. He's young and he's fast, and he's a lot more refined than the likes of Tanak

If Ostberg wasn't available, I'd be looking at Theirry Neuville. Citroen evidently think highly of him, which would make luring him over that much more difficult, but for Volkswagen to poach two of Citroen's biggest stars would a major coup.

My third choice would be the eternal journeyman, Chris Atkinson (the Atko we saw in Germany, not the Atko in Finland). I think he's a solid, dependable choice who knows when to push for position, but doesn't get carried away by his own success.

I'd also look at setting up a customer team like M-Sport and picking out a couple of rising stars there - maybe put Hayden Paddon and Craig Breen together in a team with a view to promoting them to a works drive at some point in the future.

Naming Atko you could as well name PG as driver for VW along Ogier.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Naming Atko you could as well name PG as driver for VW along Ogier.
I wasn't really that impressed by Andersson when he was driving for Suzuki. Maybe the SX4 wasn't a great rally car to begin with - Suzuki weren't overly interested in it - but Atkinson impressed me when he was with Subaru in a way Andersson hasn't.

Besides, Atkinson would be my third choice for Volkswagen. I think Ogier-Ostberg would be the best way forward, followed by Ogier-Neuville and then Ogier-Atkinson. Andersson would be my fifth choice at best; it just occurred to me that Kris Meeke might be another potential candidate.

[MJW]

I still think it will be Ogier and JML but Sordo and Ogier is probably the best combination. VW and driver recruitment seems a strange thing, remember Nasser and Petter were almost dead certainties, then that went cold and Jari Matti has been linked to VW since that first night lsunch in Portugal 2011. I'm just wondering why the JML announcement hasnt happened? Maybe Jari Matti should stay one more year at Ford (2013) then join Toyota in 2014.

[janvanvurpa]

I wasn't really that impressed by Andersson when he was driving for Suzuki. Maybe the SX4 wasn't a great rally car to begin with - Suzuki weren't overly interested in it - but Atkinson impressed me when he was with Subaru in a way Andersson hasn't.


Rovanpera was quicker in his F-cup rwd BMW at some warm up event prior to Rally Finland compared to his times in the Suzuki.
Sordo was entered at the event to get some Finnish road experience and some of the wise-guy Finns here posted the times and the difference between his normal WRC times in the Suzuki and Sordos times was whatever, and he was noticably closer gap in the rwd BMW..

That says something about the Suzuki.

[rp]

Rovanpera was quicker in his F-cup rwd BMW at some warm up event prior to Rally Finland compared to his times in the Suzuki.
Sordo was entered at the event to get some Finnish road experience and some of the wise-guy Finns here posted the times and the difference between his normal WRC times in the Suzuki and Sordos times was whatever, and he was noticably closer gap in the rwd BMW..

That says something about the Suzuki.

Right, but of course you was saying that the driver was Gardemeister, not Rovanperä...

[janvanvurpa]

Right, but of course you was saying that the driver was Gardemeister, not Rovanperä...

Yeah yeah sorry, very confusing all those Finnish names.. I mean where the hell did a Finn get a name like Gardemeister?
Shouldn't it at least be Kardimesteri or Kardimesterinenen?? Then at least we could remember it better.. Please tell him to change is name.
kiitos.
Janni Vainalantikhammi

[Rallyper]

I wasn't really that impressed by Andersson when he was driving for Suzuki. Maybe the SX4 wasn't a great rally car to begin with - Suzuki weren't overly interested in it - but Atkinson impressed me when he was with Subaru in a way Andersson hasn't.

Besides, Atkinson would be my third choice for Volkswagen. I think Ogier-Ostberg would be the best way forward, followed by Ogier-Neuville and then Ogier-Atkinson. Andersson would be my fifth choice at best; it just occurred to me that Kris Meeke might be another potential candidate.

I think you underestimate PG´s speed a lot. Look what he´s doing right now with the Protn. That´s impressing to me. And he has a lot of experience as well...

[Plan9]

Back to VW in 2013...Why can't Hanninen be added to the like up with Andreas and Seb? He has won x3 consecutive s2000 European titles; but VW seems not to be picking up the phone. Also if it comes to it Andreas could be a number 2 driver with Seb now I think.

[J.Lindstroem]

I think you underestimate PG´s speed a lot. Look what he´s doing right now with the Protn. That´s impressing to me. And he has a lot of experience as well...

I think that the fact that you are swedish takes down you credability a bit towards these people ;)

[J.Lindstroem]

Back to VW in 2013...Why can't Hanninen be added to the like up with Andreas and Seb? He has won x3 consecutive s2000 European titles; but VW seems not to be picking up the phone. Also if it comes to it Andreas could be a number 2 driver with Seb now I think.

I think that the biggest problem with Hänninen is his age. If he gets a seat in the Polo he might only have a couple of years left untill its time to step down...

[Viking]

Anybody else than me who thinks Petter an Chris had an meeting with VW on Nürburgring the week before Rally Deutschland?

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/400555_10151154728977922_314537101_n.jpg

[Prisoner Monkeys]

I think that the fact that you are swedish takes down you credability a bit towards these people ;)
His being Swedish has nothing to do with the way I don't particularly rate Andersson.


I think that the biggest problem with Hänninen is his age. If he gets a seat in the Polo he might only have a couple of years left untill its time to step down...
He might only have a few years in him, but that's still longer than most careers.

Volkswagen clearly have a plan for their WRC campaign. Ogier in one seat, Mikkelsen/Abbring sharing a third car. Whoever fills the second full-time drive will bring something to the team that they need. That's why Sordo is such a popular suggestion, given his ability to develop the car.


Anybody else than me who thinks Petter an Chris had an meeting with VW on Nürburgring the week before Rally Deutschland?
Until you give some evidence to support your idea, yeah, it's probably just going to be you who thinks that way. I don't really see how a picture of Solberg on a pushbike in front of a truck while wearing a pageboy cap is evidence of him going to VW ...

[Viking]

Until you give some evidence to support your idea, yeah, it's probably just going to be you who thinks that way. I don't really see how a picture of Solberg on a pushbike in front of a truck while wearing a pageboy cap is evidence of him going to VW ...

Nah I can live happy if it is just me :)

Ok, pic is from his FB page dating 16.Aug stating "Some interesting things at Nürburgring race track" and Petter is not wearing Ford clothes.
This was when Ogier drove the Scirocco and there was a lot of VW motorsport brass there.

But I did not say that this is a evidence of him going to VW.

[Rallyper]

I think that the fact that you are swedish takes down you credability a bit towards these people ;)

OK to those who mix up facts with unnecessary matters. My point is on real facts that no one can deny - the fact PG is as fast as the top guys.

[aykutbilir]

Im sure VWM stuff dont choose Solberg. If we talk about age of pilots,(As said Hanninen is old for VW seat!) Solberg is older from all and he is not a winner anymore. Yes he is fast. But not fast enough to beat Loeb. If we look after the Loeb possibly 2014 or else, Solberg gets enough old to step down.
Sordo will be a perfect coice as a team player, fast driver and knowledge in R&D.

And when we thinkin about seat no.2 you have to think that someone can handle Ogier ego! :)

[Prisoner Monkeys]

And when we thinkin about seat no.2 you have to think that someone can handle Ogier ego! :)
I don't think Ogier really has an ego. I think he left Citroen because he was expected to support Loeb at every turn, to the detriment of his own title bid. That might sound like an ego, but at the time, there was a real possibility that Mikko Hirvonen could have taken the title for himself. I think Ogier was under the impression that losing the drivers' title altogether was better than having a Citroen driver other than Loeb win it. In that case, can you really blame him for feeling betrayed? I would have done the same thing in his position and gotten out as soon as I could.

[aykutbilir]

He is young and hunger for success that makes him dangerous and fast. And of course easy to do mistakes. Yes he has a ego. That'smy opion of course. Situtaion last year at Citroen is normal we see that at Sbaru time Sainz-McRae. Loeb is the leading role so Ogier dont want to support just go for win.

[J.Lindstroem]

OK to those who mix up facts with unnecessary matters. My point is on real facts that no one can deny - the fact PG is as fast as the top guys.

I would not say that he is as fast as the top guys Loeb, Hirvonen, Latvala, Sordo, Ogier and Solberg. He might be in comparison with Ostberg and the group right behind.

[Rallyper]

I would not say that he is as fast as the top guys Loeb, Hirvonen, Latvala, Sordo, Ogier and Solberg. He might be in comparison with Ostberg and the group right behind.

OK, your opinion, not mine.

[tfp]

I would not say that he is as fast as the top guys Loeb, Hirvonen, Latvala, Sordo, Ogier and Solberg. He might be in comparison with Ostberg and the group right behind.


I remember back when MC was running, someone set up a camera on one individual corner, and watched each car come past and how they took the corner. Loeb was perfect of course, most of the other top drivers (Mikko for example) diddnt quite cut the corner right, others went very wide, and the odd one spun out(Henning...). A few people also spotted another driver that took the corner perfectly, that driver was Ogier. No one else seemed to notice that PG cut the corner as perfectly as Loeb.

I know its only one corner, but it did give a good insight to the skill level of the driver.

[Plan9]

I think that the biggest problem with Hänninen is his age. If he gets a seat in the Polo he might only have a couple of years left untill its time to step down...

Really? He is only in his early thirties. Unlike other motorsports pro rally drivers can go till their early forties. Juho has enought time to do something wonderful.

[stefanvv]

Really? He is only in his early thirties. Unlike other motorsports pro rally drivers can go till their early forties. Juho has enought time to do something wonderful.

The big question here is the seat number we are talking about. Yes he is not old for seat N2, but VW probably would prefer there a driver with couple years of WRC experience. For N3 he appears to be very old though... But of course this is normal suggestion, may be it won't be this way.

[J.Lindstroem]

OK, your opinion, not mine.

Of course its my opinion. I'm sorry if i let you think i suggested anything else!

[Rallyper]

Of course its my opinion. I'm sorry if i let you think i suggested anything else!

And probably we´ll never get the right answer, if not PG joins VW..

[Hartusvuori]

Robbed from Facebook. VW tests in Finland. Some modifications to the bodyshell, front mask air intake and wheel arches at least.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/60736_10151214265670733_1367152370_n.jpg

[Hartusvuori]

It still knows how to fly (see (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ec_csx10r5c&feature=player_detailpage#t=98s))... Video by Max Vatanen. Also Kim Vatanen at one shot.


http://youtu.be/Ec_csx10r5c

[MJW]

That car looks good.

[stefanvv]

Looks fast too :)

[Miika]

'Hope' is the word.

[stefanvv]

'Hope' is the word.

Yes of course from the comparison perspective. Until we see it scrapped with the leading WRC team, it doesn't mean much. Before NORF VW also made tests there and there was place for improvements (suspension, engine - I think there was new one under development, may be now this is it). But from this video now it just look damn fast...

[Mirek]

This one is new car. There are plenty of differences even in shape. New aerodynamic fenders, new vents in the bonnet.

Photo is here: www.AutoSport.CZ (http://forum.autosport.cz/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=67&start=800#p63882)

[Gregor-y]

It even has the silly LED lights around the real lights.

[stefanvv]

It even has the silly LED lights around the real lights.

Blame AUDI for that. I like them though, the future has come...

[OldF]

It still knows how to fly (see (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ec_csx10r5c&feature=player_detailpage#t=98s))... Video by Max Vatanen. Also Kim Vatanen at one shot.


http://youtu.be/Ec_csx10r5c

The car looks balanced in the jumps.

[OldF]

Btw, does anyone know if VW is using the Skoda S2000 also in the “public” tests or is it only in the tests on their own “back yards”?

GP Week : Issue 165, Page 1 (http://mag.gpweek.com/?iid=67449#folio=43)

Q: How does the Polo R WRC compare at this time with the Citroen and the Ford?

JC: Through the work of Sebastien in the Skoda S2000 we know how we compare and where we are still lacking.

We have the chance to compare the times of the Skoda on actual WRC stages during the rallies compared with the current WRC cars and then use the Skoda for back-to-back checks in our own WRC test work. We can accurately calculate the difference between the Polo R WRC and the existing WRC cars. There is still a lot of work to do. We are now trying to get the car to the speed it needs, but we are not there yet.

[Plan9]

The Polo R is starting to look a lot like the DS3 now. Especially front flairs and LED lights. I can't wait for the road edition of Polo R...

[Plan9]

Question: Does anyone think that Hayden Paddon could be part of VW's Junior operation (if such a thing will be made)? There has been some talk of it down here.

[spiderem]

The Polo R is starting to look a lot like the DS3 now. Especially front flairs and LED lights. I can't wait for the road edition of Polo R...
Would be great a polo r ... too expansive down under though...

[dimviii]

http://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/11/67/116785x505a247fc.jpghttp://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/11/67/116795x505a24835.jpghttp://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/11/68/116807x505a24875.jpg

[dimviii]

http://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/11/67/116783x505a247f3.jpghttp://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/11/67/116781x505a247ea.jpghttp://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/11/68/116805x505a2486b.jpg

GALERIEN*:: rallye-magazin.de (http://www.rallye-magazin.de/galerien/index.html?tx_yag_pi1%5Bcontext311%5D%5BalbumUid%5 D=511&tx_yag_pi1%5Bcontext311%5D%5BgalleryUid%5D=265&tx_yag_pi1%5BitemList311%5D%5BpagerCollection%5D%5 Bpage%5D=14&tx_yag_pi1%5Baction%5D=submitFilter&tx_yag_pi1%5Bcontroller%5D=ItemList&cHash=3066b85356323c0ba58afa4d7d401cbd)

[Miika]

http://youtu.be/JcTE4iBjNeE

[dimviii]

no antilag?

[Hartusvuori]

Btw, does anyone know if VW is using the Skoda S2000 also in the “public” tests or is it only in the tests on their own “back yards”?

They had Fabia in Finland in June tests, and I think it's been same elsewhere as well.

[Mirek]

I heard they tested also with three different cars on same road - also with Škoda Motorsport Fabia

[dimviii]

you mean polo wrc-fabia vw-fabia skoda?

[Mirek]

Yes

[uranium]

you mean polo wrc-fabia vw-fabia skoda?
What is "fabia vw" ?

[Mirek]

What is "fabia vw" ?

VW makes its own development. Fabias of VW and of Škoda Motorsport are not same. The most known fact is different shock absorbers (Sachs x Reiger) but I think there are many more differences.

[uranium]

You mean just racing car, not usual one?

[rallye-vid]

Fabia VW - the fabia they drive in the WRC
Fabia Skoda - fabia they drive in the IRC/ERC

[darkstar]

is it possible that vw plan to make a rrc also? on these pictures they have the s2000 wing:


http://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/11/67/116789x505a24813.jpg

[Mirek]

They must do the S2000. The homologation of WRC car consist of two things:

1. S2000 1.6T car
2. WRC Kit (can't exist alone, it's only few parts to add to the S2000 homologation)

[darkstar]

yes, but as they actually test it i think it means they want to use/sell/rent it. citroen more or less simply detached the wrc wing and called it s2000 1.6T for homologation and never ran the car really.

[Mirek]

It's not that easy. For the homologation You must have certain number of parts physically available (I think 10). That means if WRC Kit consists of new flywheel, wing, front bumper, side windows and front brakes You must have everything ready in both S2000 and WRC variants prepared before homologation. You can't homologate the S2000 only on paper. Once You homologate it You must sell it if someone orders it. I think that hardly some team would go to the FIA court complaining about that but theoretically they are obliged to make everything homologated available for customers in some reasonable time.

[Antony Warmbold]

yes, but as they actually test it i think it means they want to use/sell/rent it. citroen more or less simply detached the wrc wing and called it s2000 1.6T for homologation and never ran the car really.

Since the interview in GP week mentionned that they use the Fabia to compare with the Polo WRC in order to judge how close they are to the other WRC cars, I could imagine they try to run the Polo in S2000 configuration or at least without the wing to see also how it compares. I imagine it could be useful to pinpoint where they need to work on to improve the WRC spec Polo.

Maybe somebody who was there on the test could tell us if he/she noticed a noise/power difference when the Polo ran the S2000 wing?

[SubaruNorway]

no antilag?

Seems almost like that was just a PR stunt on the first test making it sound awesome cos i haven't heard it like that since then.

[dimviii]

Seems almost like that was just a PR stunt on the first test making it sound awesome cos i haven't heard it like that since then.

awesome sound without antilag?

[cali]

awesome sound without antilag?
I think SubaruNorway meant that at the first videos Polo sounded fantastic with antilag, now it seems they have found better ALS settings but the car doesn't sound as good as it used to be.

[stefanvv]

Seems almost like that was just a PR stunt on the first test making it sound awesome cos i haven't heard it like that since then.

I remember that video, it had lot of lot of lot of antilag there :D Nice ad for a Rally car I guess :)

[OldF]

Thanks Hartusvuori and everyone else.

I believe they had all the time the same settings for the VW Fabia to get comparable inputs for the development of the WV Polo WRC car.

[kober]

For the homologation You must have certain number of parts physically available (I think 10). That means if WRC Kit consists of new flywheel, wing, front bumper, side windows and front brakes You must have everything ready in both S2000 and WRC variants prepared before homologation. You can't homologate the S2000 only on paper.Does it mean that for homologation purposes, a manufacturer needs to prepare a set of parts for ten complete S2000 cars, and (if they want to) ten WRC kits on top of that?

[stefanvv]

http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/images/large/610/Audi-Sport-Quattro-S1_1.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/60736_10151214265670733_1367152370_n.jpg

Do you find any similarities?

[Plan9]

Would be great a polo r ... too expansive down under though...

We get the odd Golf R, surely any Polo R will not be more...

[Mirek]

Does it mean that for homologation purposes, a manufacturer needs to prepare a set of parts for ten complete S2000 cars, and (if they want to) ten WRC kits on top of that?

In my understanding yes.

[stefanvv]

Sebastien Ogier urges Volkswagen to keep pushing with developments of Polo R WRC - WRC news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/102682)

[dimviii]

Sebastien Ogier urges Volkswagen to keep pushing with developments of Polo R WRC - WRC news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/102682)

2nd time Ogier moans about Polos progress...

[uranium]

History likes to repeat itself from time to time...

[Gregor-y]

Hope he doesn't get himself canned before the car's ready.

[Karukera]

Tabloid style title and article.

[Francis44]

Ogier is very clever. He knows that much of next year's championship interest is on VW shoulders, so he says to the press that things may not be at 100% from the beginning, so that everyone dosen't start to say they are rubish if they dont do well in the first half of the year.

[Rallyper]

I remember that video, it had lot of lot of lot of antilag there :D Nice ad for a Rally car I guess :)

Maybe they had a lot more power just to test drivetrain in the beginning of testing?

[stefanvv]

Maybe they had a lot more power just to test drivetrain in the beginning of testing?

It might be possible. Their approach to make the car stable & strong initially might suggest that too.

[Andre Oliveira]

It is true that VW are in north of Portugal at city of Vieira do Minho to testing tomorrow?

[stefanvv]

Ogier is very clever. He knows that much of next year's championship interest is on VW shoulders, so he says to the press that things may not be at 100% from the beginning, so that everyone dosen't start to say they are rubish if they dont do well in the first half of the year.

I don't really think people are expecting from them to win right from the start. And with current Rally standards there is no room for big surprises as we had seen some in the past. May be Ogier is just like that, wants to win always, and may be this a French thing ;)

[J.Lindstroem]

Is VW the new Citroen and Ogier the new Loeb? Maybe 2013 will be the start of something fantastic like 2003 was the start of the Citroen full championship story!

[janvanvurpa]

Maybe they had a lot more power just to test drivetrain in the beginning of testing?

Ironi?

Pretty hard within the rules to do much more than the next motor. Very locked down with everything they regulate.

[stefanvv]

Is VW the new Citroen and Ogier the new Loeb? Maybe 2013 will be the start of something fantastic like 2003 was the start of the Citroen full championship story!

Citroen doesn't hold the Manu record, unlike Loeb for Drivers, it is Lancia. But probably you're somewhat right, 2013 will begin new, more exciting era for WRC, lets hope so... Doubtfully though it will be "one man show", later years new Manus will come from east also, competition grows bigger...

[darkstar]

Is VW the new Citroen and Ogier the new Loeb? Maybe 2013 will be the start of something fantastic like 2003 was the start of the Citroen full championship story!

i think so...

[Rallyper]

Ironi?

Pretty hard within the rules to do much more than the next motor. Very locked down with everything they regulate.

Inte ironi.

If you want a full test of for example drive train, you just put as much power you can to see where things broke. My way of trying to explain why the engine sounded so much more than todays car which I believe is similar to regulations. But not the first testing car which didn´t need to... Förstår du vad jag menar?

They could have used a 2 litre engine with no limitation on turbo. Which made the car having 400+ hp without any difficulties.

[dimviii]

or without restrictor at same engine

[Andre Oliveira]

VW truck at Algarve, it seems that VW will test today and tomorrow in the north of Portugal and Tuesday and Wednesday on south. (http://imageshack.us/a/img707/457/photoset22100042.jpg)

[Mintexmemory]

If they test strength of drivetrain etc, don't they just do that on asphalt, as they can put more power on the ground on asphalt?
Shock loading is more acute on gravel

[Kielder]

http://i47.tinypic.com/1e89k0.jpg

Sainz & Moya started today a session of four days of testing with the Polo WRC in the south of Portugal.
Rally Legend is coming.

[janvanvurpa]

Inte ironi.

If you want a full test of for example drive train, you just put as much power you can to see where things broke. My way of trying to explain why the engine sounded so much more than todays car which I believe is similar to regulations. But not the first testing car which didn´t need to... Förstår du vad jag menar?

They could have used a 2 litre engine with no limitation on turbo. Which made the car having 400+ hp without any difficulties.

These days nearly every part is designed using CAD--computer aided drafting, and even low entry level commericial CAD/CAM programs have FEA (Finite Element Analysis) baked in... engineering data on materials is accounted for and is long since known---the computers justy make it so even ignoratnes like me can go clicky clack clicky and know before the chips start flying the ultimate strength of components...Things like bearing strength and life have been in the back of everybodys paper katalog since forever so there's a lot of known knowns before you open the chuck in the lathe...
I've been making stuff for jössös like more than 40 years and it ain‘t like it was.
Reagarding Fords like my Sierra thing, I started seeing about 92 and forsure by '93 all sorts of things that were formerly hand machined and maybe welded up things---like say alternator mount that suddenly were made from 100% machined chucks of aluminum--I knew then that the computing power that OEMs had in mainline jobs--where you are going to make 1,000,000 of the same thing (and the investment of computer time, programming time and machine tool time is worth it) had reached short run level...
And even an old dino like me has used this CAD/CAM and FEA capability when designing some suspension junk for em and my friend Kevin "the Chin" Hawkinson (Kevin's family comes from därborta so I explained what his name should be: Håkansson and if he says it HAWKINson it sounds like ''Hakan'' and he does have a prominent chin so maybe ''Hakanson'' is better. But that's not important----we watch a LOT of F+cup härborta i rally världens mesta u-land so everybody who gets really sideways is blessed eller döpt´---with an honorary Finnish smeknamn and Kevin's is ''Kevvi Hoikansainalainenen''. aren't you glad you asked? )

In any case it is torque eller vrid that stresses gears and bearings and diffs etc.
2,0 34mm restrictor motors made plenty of torque....

[Mirek]

Shock loading is more acute on gravel

I don't think so. You can never get so much torque on wheels on gravel like You have on dry asphalt startline just from the adhesion. I would say most of the broken driveshafts or diffs come from starts and 1st gear corners on asphalt. Most of the privateers here on asphalt think about these particular situations to be able to finish...

[Kielder]

http://i46.tinypic.com/ogysxv.jpg
http://i45.tinypic.com/14l4kr9.jpg
http://i47.tinypic.com/21lq44n.jpg

[rallye-vid]

Today morning in Trier

http://www.abload.de/img/p9260017clo6n.jpg

[Kielder]

It is said that Sainz had a little off yesterday. Today the team was repairing the car. Driving Miss Daisy season ended.

[Plan9]

@rallye-vid is that the new body kit? I can't tell...

[6789]

@rallye-vid is that the new body kit? I can't tell...

Doesn't look like the new Polo. Only one vent on the bonnet and the front grill is different i think

[TyPat107]

Different fender flares as well

[Allar]

Is Lappi linked to VW/Škoda?

[Mirek]

If I have good info he will be with Škoda at least next year.

[sete]

with a factory team?if yes who will go out?Kopecky or Juha?

[Mirek]

Not with factory team. I think both Jan and Juho stay.

[mousti]

Test Polo WRC - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XsfDFV81pcM&feature=youtu.be)

Test after Alsace

[Sulland]

Will Skoda UK go for another foreigner, or will EVEN Rally do ERC or WRC2 with Lappi?

[noel157]

Will Skoda UK even be an entrant next season?

[GigiGalliNo1]

Skoda said they are waiting for the release of the 2013 calendar for ERC to see

[stefanvv]

Skoda said they are waiting for the release of the 2013 calendar for ERC to see

What could they want to see?

[GigiGalliNo1]

To see where rallies are. To see calendar. Sorry

[stefanvv]

To see where rallies are. To see calendar. Sorry

No need ;) I suppose they want to fit some logistics/race budget then.

[EightGear]

http://www.imgdumper.nl/uploads6/507b3fe9b8539/507b3fe9b27ad-2012-10-15_00-41-54-1.jpg

:D

[MJW]

Now that it is official that VW have signed both Sebastien Ogier and Jari Matti, both young drivers with 2year plus 1 option, where does this leave Andreas Mikkelsen in the pecking order? Officially he hasnt signed with VW but I guess we all expect it, or will he(or his management) feel that he would be better off as number 2 in a Hyundai. I wonder if 2014 line up will be Ogier / Latvala in VW and Hyundai Sordo / Mikkelsen? Just a thought.

[noel157]

Mickkelsen will be seen in a PoloWRC during the season. Don't think he's going anywhere.

[tmx]

Now that it is official that VW have signed both Sebastien Ogier and Jari Matti I don't understand who will be the number one driver in that team. They're both the fastest driver in the sport, but I don't think either are going to give each other leeway. But I guess it does give a very good chance for the manufacturer championship which is most important.

[noel157]

Who needs number ones? :) At least they can't take each other off...
I think Ogier will be regarded as No 1, or in PR terms, they'll both be equal No 1s.

[rallye-vid]

Capito said somewhere there will be no No.1 driver at the start of the season.

Later, the one with more points and chances for a champion will get more support from the other one

[noel157]

Capito said somewhere there will be no No.1 driver at the start of the season.

Later, the one with more points and chances for a champion will get more support from the other one

Think Ogier has heard that somewhere before...... :)

[Mintexmemory]

Think Ogier has heard that somewhere before...... :)
True but JML has shown he can be trusted to support the guy with the better chance for WDC, even if it means sacrificing a win.
I imagine that VW have thought long and hard about the team psychology and that Seb and JML are assessed as being compatible

[rallye-vid]

Indeed.. We will see what i going to happen ;)

[dimviii]

from vw press release...

I’ve taken this decision in order to make another step towards reaching my big aim: the world champion’s title with Volkswagen

i think that i can see smoke out of Ogiers ears already. :D

[AndyRAC]

Wow, never saw that one coming..... ;)

Won’t be easy for JML - Ogier is already No1 - he’s been there for almost a year, and will have had everything done ‘his way’. JML will be going into Ogier’s team.
So 2 Factory teams and a Finn in each one – Joukhi strikes again....

[Iskald]

Now that it is official that VW have signed both Sebastien Ogier and Jari Matti, both young drivers with 2year plus 1 option, where does this leave Andreas Mikkelsen in the pecking order? Officially he hasnt signed with VW but I guess we all expect it, or will he(or his management) feel that he would be better off as number 2 in a Hyundai. I wonder if 2014 line up will be Ogier / Latvala in VW and Hyundai Sordo / Mikkelsen? Just a thought.

Its a good guess, but I`m quite sure you are wrong.

[uranium]

Let's wait who will stay in VW at the 2013 end ;)

[Mirek]

Now that it is official that VW have signed both Sebastien Ogier and Jari Matti, both young drivers with 2year plus 1 option, where does this leave Andreas Mikkelsen in the pecking order? Officially he hasnt signed with VW but I guess we all expect it, or will he(or his management) feel that he would be better off as number 2 in a Hyundai. I wonder if 2014 line up will be Ogier / Latvala in VW and Hyundai Sordo / Mikkelsen? Just a thought.

I think that Mikkelsen and Abbring both have signed contracts with VW for at least next year. They will start in Fabias and later switch to Polo WRC (Mikkelsen first).

[stefanvv]

Let's wait who will stay in VW at the 2013 end ;)

I think they were offering Latvala 2+ year contract. Perhaps this is what they agreed upon...

[T.Maanteiden kuningas]

Latvala 2+1 deal.