VW News 2012 & WRC 2013

[dimviii]

any French mates can translate?
http://nsa32.casimages.com/img/2012/10/18/121018112259557052.png

[dimviii]

Latvalas quote.....''Volkswagen has not specified a number one driver; we will have the same status. It’s difficult to state a personal goal for the moment because I don’t know the team or car yet. I just hope to be competitive''

Ogiers quote.....''Jari-Matti is a good driver and very fast. No doubt about that. He will certainly be able to contribute to the Polo R’s development,” believes the Frenchman. “For me it will be nice to have a benchmark like him. I think 2013 will be an interesting season…”

Latvala and Volkswagen/Michelin: it (http://en.best-of-rallylive.com/Bestofrallylive/News/Latvala-and-Volkswagen-Michelin-it-s-official)

mmmmmmmmm.........

[tolis]

any French mates can translate?
http://nsa32.casimages.com/img/2012/10/18/121018112259557052.png

Ford didn't give JML a long-term contract, so it was evident to go to VW.
-Someone said that you signed in VW last year.
JML: No, it's not true. Both VW and Ford offered me a contract. Some days before GB, I still had discussions with Malcolm Wilson.
-In Rallye de France, you said that the most important for you is to have a fast car next year. Now, you say that it's the long-term agreement that made you go to VW. What's the correct?
JML: I know that the Ford's can be fast, even though there won't be Ford support next year and they can win rallies. I am persuaded that it's the same situation in VW. I am sure that VW cars are fast. Today, I don't know anything about VW, I haven't tested the car, but VW proved that they have an enormous motivation. So, because of the motivation and the long-term contract, I went to VW.
-So that means how many years?
JML: Many years...(laughing). That will stay between me and VW.
-How do you see the rivalry between you and Ogier?
JML: I know that Ogier is a very good driver. Like me he wants to win and I think that it's a good choice for the team to have 2 good drivers that have determination. I know that 2011 was not very good between him and Loeb in Citroen, but I think it'll be different between us.
-Will there be a No1 and No2 drivers?
JML: No, there won't be and that's very important for us.
-When will you drive the Polo WRC?
JML: We'll see. Without doubt, in the end of the season, end of November. I know VW has a private test, but Ford has to allow me. I have to talk with them first of all.
-It's Ogier who developed the car. Will he have any advantage compared to you?
JML: It's true that he'll know the car very well. However, I don't think there are big differences between the cars nowadays and I think I will adapt to the car very soon. Ogier will be in a better position in the first rallies, but after....

[dimviii]

Τhanks Tolis!

[kober]

Mikkelsen's first start in Polo WRC should be in Portugal. Will VW have fourth Polo WRC for Abbring ready anytime between the end of the season?

[stefanvv]

Mikkelsen's first start in Polo WRC should be in Portugal. Will VW have fourth Polo WRC for Abbring ready anytime between the end of the season?

I think they are going to share the 3rd one.

[Langdale Forest]

Is VW doing all rounds next year?

[rallye-vid]

Yes

[pettersolberg29]

From what I'm aware Mikkelsen will drive 8 rounds, starting at Portugal. This would suggest the car isn't shared with Abbring as that would mean Abbring would only have 2 rounds, but maybe that's the plan. From their outings this year you'd have to give Andreas the nod over Abbring any day of the week - I can see Mikkelsen pushing for top 5 whereas Abbring is still not quite there yet in my view.

[stefanvv]

From what I'm aware Mikkelsen will drive 8 rounds, starting at Portugal. This would suggest the car isn't shared with Abbring as that would mean Abbring would only have 2 rounds, but maybe that's the plan. From their outings this year you'd have to give Andreas the nod over Abbring any day of the week - I can see Mikkelsen pushing for top 5 whereas Abbring is still not quite there yet in my view.

You're right - Mikkelsen im dritten Polo R WRC*:: rallye-magazin.de (http://www.rallye-magazin.de/rallyes/wm/nachrichten/news-detail/d/2012/10/19/mikkelsen-im-dritten-polo-r-wrc/index.html)

Month or Two ago VW was suggesting Mikkelsen & Abbring to do the events 50/50 next year with the same car number. But now looks the plans are changed. Abbring is promising driver too, but I share the opinion here that Mikkelsen will deliver more results 2013. I don't know what exactly Abbring role will be in the team. May be doing events with Skoda :confused:

[EightGear]

From their outings this year you'd have to give Andreas the nod over Abbring any day of the week

It's a shame Abbring has only done 4 events this year. At Monte Carlo he won S2000, in Mexico the car broke down on day 2, in Portugal he was sick during recce, hit something on shakedown and couldn't start the rally. Wales was his first rally since Portugal. He recce'd all others though.

Mikkelsen in the 3rd car is a logical choice. There is no point for him in doing another season in a S2000. For Abbring it will be good though.

[uranium]

You're right - Mikkelsen im dritten Polo R WRC*:: rallye-magazin.de (http://www.rallye-magazin.de/rallyes/wm/nachrichten/news-detail/d/2012/10/19/mikkelsen-im-dritten-polo-r-wrc/index.html)


zwei Alpha-Tiere
LOL :roll:

[stefanvv]

LOL :roll:

If some forum member was still here and see this :D

[RS]

I don't think Abbring is ready yet either, and I guess they didn't really intend him to be, otherwise they surely would have given him some more events in the Fabia this year in WRC or IRC.

It doesn't look like Hanninen is forming part of VWs plans, but I would like to see him stay with Skoda and be allowed a couple of events in the Polo WRC too (Monte and Finland specifically)

[mousti]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ogUaLEzns1U&

Nice footage of Sainz with the Polo R WRC at Rally Legend.

ALS same like very first videos of the Polo in Germany.

[stefanvv]

Is there any onboard video from Polo runs available?

[PLuto]

I don't think Abbring is ready yet either, and I guess they didn't really intend him to be, otherwise they surely would have given him some more events in the Fabia this year in WRC or IRC.

It doesn't look like Hanninen is forming part of VWs plans, but I would like to see him stay with Skoda and be allowed a couple of events in the Polo WRC too (Monte and Finland specifically)

Juho lost his chance to be part of VW Motorsport last year on Cyprus...

[GigiGalliNo1]

Aren't VW going to run a 2nd "junior" type team possibly?

[stefanvv]

I think Hanninen is not "junior" either ;)

[uranium]

Juho lost his chance to be part of VW Motorsport last year on Cyprus...

You know smth, or just thoughts aloud?

[SubaruNorway]

Someone wrote in a Norwegian forum that Mikko Markula had internal injuries after the crash in San Remo and that's why he's not in Spain. San Remo was a month ago so that seems a bit odd...

[dimviii]

Colin talked that Mikkelsens co driver change was from his management

[Jeppe]

Someone wrote in a Norwegian forum that Mikko Markula had internal injuries after the crash in San Remo and that's why he's not in Spain. San Remo was a month ago so that seems a bit odd...

That´s biggest BS that I´ve heard long time.. ..or maybe Norwegians are fooling you. Turskat perkele!!! ;) ;)

Mikko was 100% alright in the day 2 (saturday) in the San Remo service park where I chat with him. He even did have his normal sense of humour albeit what had happened last night in Ronde..

[Mirek]

Someone wrote in a Norwegian forum that Mikko Markula had internal injuries after the crash in San Remo and that's why he's not in Spain. San Remo was a month ago so that seems a bit odd...

The whole thing is strange and I would take all information easy. Truth may be completely different that public statements.

[PLuto]

You know smth, or just thoughts aloud?

I know a lot but in this case it will be better not to publish info in forums...

[CWJ]

Colin talked that Mikkelsens co driver change was from his management

tbo I think Polo potential target audiance is too young, so...

[uranium]

MIKKELSEN A. / FLOENE O. (st. č. 26) Hit rock, broken suspension

As usual.


Juho lost his chance to be part of VW Motorsport last year on Cyprus...

For that I dare to guess the only thing. Behind Mikkelsen big money stands. Behind Juho not. That's it. Everything else is nothing.

[Mirek]

Do You really think that the richest car maker in the world backed by one of the strongest possible sponsors needs money from its drivers?

[Viking]

As usual.



For that I dare to guess the only thing. Behind Mikkelsen big money stands. Behind Juho not. That's it. Everything else is nothing.

Good managment yes, big money no. Andreas has actually been paid a vage from Skoda UK/VW

[uranium]

Do You really think that the richest car maker in the world backed by one of the strongest possible sponsors needs money from its drivers?

Why not?
I don't see any reasonable explanation besides that. I'd like to hear it if any

[dimviii]

Meanwhile, the firm has scheduled a number of test sessions over the winter, including an ambitious dress rehearsal next week at its private test facilities in Ehra-Lessien. The centre includes around 100km of asphalt roads and Jari-Matti Latvala, Sébastien Ogier and Andreas Mikkelsen have been invited to perform a ‘mock’ rally that will last three days.
This exercise will provide Jari-Matti with an opportunity to drive the Polo for the first time, while Andreas will have a new co-driver, Mikka Markkula, formerly Hanninen’s right-hand man at Skoda, who will step in to replace Ola Floene.
The test programme will continue with a five-day visit to France’s Ardèche region, plus another three days on snow in Sweden in December in order to prepare for the first two rounds of the 2013 championship. Before then, however, the team will have travelled to Mexico at the end of November to try the new car on gravel.

Final preparations for VW (http://en.best-of-rallylive.com/Bestofrallylive/News/Final-preparations-for-VW)

[darkstar]

vw is really taking it serious! i bet they will win monte straight away!

[Coach 2]

Let us hope that VW is not too good, right from the beginning. Then I'm afraid we have a new era with a new Seb being unbeatable.

[uranium]

We will see. All drivers are fast, but absolutely non reliable. What is Polo WRC nobody knows. It can be equally either something or nothing

[stefanvv]

1 & 1/2 years of development, 20K km tests mostly gravel, 2 fastest drivers pack (excluding Loeb of course). I wouldn't be shocked if they begin to win straight away.

[A FONDO]

Let us hope that VW is not too good, right from the beginning. Then I'm afraid we have a new era with a new Seb being unbeatable.

Ogier will be even bigger dominant than Loeb. The regulations are so tight that there can't be notable differences among the cars, it all depends on drivers and sometimes tyre mistakes.

[EightGear]

Imagine the relief Ogier must be feeling now. Finally his season with the Fabia is over and he won't be able to cry that he can't keep up with the WRC's anymore. :D

[tolis]

.

[A FONDO]

Imagine the relief Ogier must be feeling now. Finally his season with the Fabia is over and he won't be able to cry that he can't keep up with the WRC's anymore. :D
He is a natural, born fighter, he can't cruise, he thinks for win even with a huge handicap in the cars.
If it was for example Hirvonen at his place (today) he would have been worried that his easy days are over.

[Federov]

There's no denying the talent in either driver. Plus, the main worry of the past decade is halfway out.

Not that I'm doubting that VW can pimp ze auto, but I'm very curious to see the consistency of the car throughout the season. The Skoda impressed me, as did SebO. But this is a whole new ballgame.

[Kielder]

Latvala drove today the Polo for the first time. The test took place near Wolksburg. Ogier was there too.

[pettersolberg29]

Latvala drove today the Polo for the first time. The test took place near Wolksburg. Ogier was there too.

Was not Mikkelsen there also? I believe he has some tests with the Polo very soon but may be wrong.

[xavier]

vw is really taking it serious! i bet they will win monte straight away!

Hmm... I would rather put my money on a rather unknown driver that will just do a few rallies in 2013 and won a few (7 or 6, or is it 76) rallies in in career.

Anyhow, I surely hope VW will come with a competitive car and that Ogier did not waste his only chance to beat Loeb for nothing. I still think that he made a very very bad choice and should have run a Ford WRC this year and like JML, move to VW in 2013. Solberg could have then been the person helping developing the Polo, that would have avoid an embarrassing season.

[Red bull]

Latvala drove today the Polo for the first time. The test took place near Wolksburg. Ogier was there too.
any video clip,can't wait to see latvala in the polo!

[Mintexmemory]

Hmm... I would rather put my money on a rather unknown driver that will just do a few rallies in 2013 and won a few (7 or 6, or is it 76) rallies in in career.

Anyhow, I surely hope VW will come with a competitive car and that Ogier did not waste his only chance to beat Loeb for nothing. I still think that he made a very very bad choice and should have run a Ford WRC this year and like JML, move to VW in 2013. Solberg could have then been the person helping developing the Polo, that would have avoid an embarrassing season.
Xav, are you referring to Seb O wasting the 2012 season (when he had proof already that Citroen wouldn't allow him to beat Loeb anyway) or the decisions he took in 2011 season not to be the tame handbag dog any longer?

[Viking]

Was not Mikkelsen there also? I believe he has some tests with the Polo very soon but may be wrong.

This says he was

Latvala logra subirse al Volkswagen Polo R WRC | MotorEnLinea.es - La revista digital del mundo del motor en Canarias (http://www.motorenlinea.es/articulo.php?id=4255)

Googlish

Google Oversetter (http://translate.google.com/translate?sl=auto&tl=en&js=n&prev=_t&hl=no&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.motorenlinea.es%2Farticulo.php% 3Fid%3D4255)

[xavier]

Xav, are you referring to Seb O wasting the 2012 season (when he had proof already that Citroen wouldn't allow him to beat Loeb anyway) or the decisions he took in 2011 season not to be the tame handbag dog any longer?

I meant for Seb Ogier to have wasted the 2012 season by not moving to Ford: i am sure we would have had a much more intresting season if he had done that.
And now, he will never be able to say he bested Seb Loeb over a season.

[Viking]

Some Norwegian media reported that Andreas Mikkelsen has put pen to paper for an 3 year deal with VW :up:

[Mirek]

I meant for Seb Ogier to have wasted the 2012 season by not moving to Ford: i am sure we would have had a much more intresting season if he had done that.
And now, he will never be able to say he bested Seb Loeb over a season.

Wasn't it Ford itself (not M-Sport) who made him go to VW by looooong waiting with confirmation of works program?

[stefanvv]

I don't think Ogier would won the title with Ford 2012

[Mintexmemory]

Mirek and Stefan have pointed the salient argument - Ford prevaricated and wouldn't have been good enough anyway. Seb now has a team where no one is preferred in front of him and the resources are adequate to keep developing in pace with all opposition. He's not only quick, he's clever. Le jour de gloire is about to arrive again and it pains this rosbif to say it!

[Kielder]

VW started yesterday five days of tests in Mexico. Ogier drove the car yesterday and is going to drive it today and tomorrow, when JML is arriving to share the test that day and drive the car until Thursday. It's believed that the test takes place in Mexico especially to test engine performance at high altitude. Besides yesterday the team was working hard on the suspension.

http://i48.tinypic.com/nevo5i.jpg


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BWjR9Db8Xws&feature=player_embedded

[rallyfiend]

That's an expensive test.

You'd think they will have had to take a couple of chassis, engines, suspension, body, etc. Likely all airfreight.

They know how to spend the cash these Germans!

[Francis44]

The car looks fast.

[makinen_fan]

Isn't testing outside Europe forbidden? Or this applies to VW from 1 Jan 2013, when they are officially a manufacturer team?

[Mirek]

You answered Yourself. VW can do whatever comes to their mind till they register for championship and homologate the car.

[vkangas]

Isn't testing outside Europe forbidden? Or this applies to VW from 1 Jan 2013, when they are officially a manufacturer team?
Hah, Mirek was too fast for me... He seems to be working hard too :) .

[dimviii]

imho vw must have invent a new antilag system without bangs.

[mousti]

Saddest invention in Rallying history! :(

[dimviii]

Saddest invention in Rallying history! :(
why?

[mousti]

why?
Who doesn't love the "bangbang" !? :D

[GigiGalliNo1]

WRC.com has official story.

[Kielder]

First photo of Latvala driving the Polo:

http://i50.tinypic.com/6f6ww9.jpg

I hope it isn't a premonition...

[Hartusvuori]

First photo of Latvala driving the Polo:


I hope it isn't a premonition...

He's just getting over (a) ford...

[Kielder]

Another photo of Latvala driving the Polo:

http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee510/OAnibal/29363_396961387044841_752161457_n.jpg

[Miika]

Another photo of VW´s crash-tester in action:
https://twitter.com/paddocknews/status/274203207155187712/photo/1

[dimviii]

seems that polo has crashed from rear?

[A FONDO]

seems that polo has crashed from rear?
:laugh:

VW marketing in action. They will be very busy this year :D

[stefanvv]

Yes, Polo apears to be strong car. Good.... :D

[DIMI44]

Another photo of VW´s crash-tester in action:
https://twitter.com/paddocknews/status/274203207155187712/photo/1

OGIER - LATVALA 0-1. :p

[Xsara Fan]

Another photo of VW´s crash-tester in action:
https://twitter.com/paddocknews/status/274203207155187712/photo/1

Photos in much better quality here - almrally website (http://www.almrally.ru/novosti-wrc/info/9523/)

[Kielder]

Photos in much better quality here - almrally website (http://www.almrally.ru/novosti-wrc/info/9523/)

As we can see, the first information was wrong. Actually, the crash happened in the liaison to the assistance. This is at least as weird as his accident during the last Rally Mexico.

[uranium]

Crashtvala had accident with civil VW Pointer. Minibus was turned upside down. In accident two parents and kid were injured and taken to hospital. Police says that preliminary investigation shows that guilty is racing car.

[stefanvv]

Crashtvala had accident with civil VW Pointer. Minibus was turned upside down. In accident two parents and kid were injured and taken to hospital. Police says that preliminary investigation shows that guilty is racing car.

I thought the road was closed for the testing?!?

[Mirek]

It was on asphalt liaison not on test track.

[Mintexmemory]

It was on asphalt liaison not on test track.

Crap, that's another rally JML will have to miss - if he doesn't want to end up in a Mexican jail. Does Finland have an extradition treaty with Mexico?

[Juha_Koo]

Oh for f*ck's sake...

[Donney]

WOW what a start for his VW era... :eek:

[WRC1]

investigation shows that guilty is racing car.

if this turns out to be true Volkswagen should get rid of crashvala as soon as possible (hänninen, andersson, breen and even novikov) are still available....

[A FONDO]

WOW what a start for his VW era... :eek:

DEVASTATING start :laugh: Perhaps he is training for a guiness world record for biggest number of crashes in a single season?

[Francis44]

Relax. Sh** happens. I just hope the passengers of the civil vehicle are ok and their injuries are nothing too serious.

[stefanvv]

Relax. Sh** happens. I just hope the passengers of the civil vehicle are ok and their injuries are nothing too serious.

Exactly, nobody is insured against that, even Mr. Loeb.

[Mintexmemory]

Exactly, nobody is insured against that, even Mr. Loeb.

Yes but that was a Spanish revenge mission for Dani having to give up 1st place in 2010 Catalunya!! ;)

[Francis44]

Yes indeed lol. Anyways Mr. Loeb has had a few problems in road sections, one was to crash into Conrad's car in Jordan.

[tommeke_B]

Yes indeed lol. Anyways Mr. Loeb has had a few problems in road sections, one was to crash into Conrad's car in Jordan.

That was nothing more or less than a mistake from organizers there... ;) A small gravel road as road section in both directions, you have to be blind to not see the danger of it...

[rallyfiend]

That was nothing more or less than a mistake from organizers there... ;) A small gravel road as road section in both directions, you have to be blind to not see the danger of it...

Even Seb admitted that was his fault. He wasn't concentrating and trying to put his helmet in net behind him.

[dimviii]

The family members were attended to by the Volkswagen Motorsport doctor and were transported to hospital, where the father was diagnosed with mild concussion. The mother suffered a broken nose, while a child in the car at the same time was uninjured.

Jari-Matti Latvala road accident halts Volkswagen's Mexico WRC test - WRC news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/104662)

[Kielder]

Volkswagen presents the Polo R WRC in Monaco next Saturday:
"Many motorsport celebrities are expected to attend the ceremonial unveiling in the principality, including the former racing aces Carlos Sainz, Juha Kankkunen and Markku Alén as well as Jacky Ickx and Hans-Joachim Stuck. Furthermore, Volkswagen Motorsport presents the driver pairings, which will contest the World Rally Championship".

[Prisoner Monkeys]

I thought all the Volkswagen drivers were confirmed for 2013.

Or do they have a non-manufacturer team or two in the works?

[tolis]

VW testing in snow

https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/479766_10151323291185733_2047391615_n.jpg

[jbmarcus21]

VW prepares Monte 2013
Volkswagen Motorsport prépare le Rallye Wrc Monte-Carlo 2013 ! (http://planetemarcus.com/volkswagen-motorsport-prepare-le-rallye-wrc-monte-carlo-2013/)

[Kielder]

New number plates on the car testing for Montecarlo, WOB VW 357. They have built seven chassis already.

http://i49.tinypic.com/2wgg9vk.jpg

[dimviii]

why you said 7 chassis? which are the other 6?

[tommeke_B]

why you said 7 chassis? which are the other 6?
Ask Jari-Matti and Seb... :D

Sébastien Ogier: (http://en.best-of-rallylive.com/Bestofrallylive/News/Sebastien-Ogier-We-are-being-very-realistic) - Interesting article for those who believe VW will win everything from the start... :)

[Kielder]

Yep, if we think about their drivers they will need more than seven rally cars :D ...

The first Polo WRC was named as chassis #0, its number plate is WOB VW 351. Then we've seen the series since 352 (testing in Greece) until 356 (testing in Mexico). Sometimes the number plates of a chassis are changed, but it makes no sense in this short period of time before starting competition. Therefore, I believe they have tested with seven different chassis, although not all of them were the finished version of the car.

[dimviii]

Yep, if we think about their drivers they will need more than seven rally cars :D ...

The first Polo WRC was named as chassis #0, its number plate is WOB VW 351. Then we've seen the series since 352 (testing in Greece) until 356 (testing in Mexico). Sometimes the number plates of a chassis are changed, but it makes no sense in this short period of time before starting competition. Therefore, I believe they have tested with seven different chassis, although not all of them were the finished version of the car.
cant believe that till now they have tested with 7(!!!!!!) different chassis.Ok they have a good budget,but there is no need for so many chassis just at tests.

[dimviii]

Ask Jari-Matti and Seb... :D

lol

[stefanvv]

Ask Jari-Matti and Seb... :D

Sébastien Ogier: (http://en.best-of-rallylive.com/Bestofrallylive/News/Sebastien-Ogier-We-are-being-very-realistic) - Interesting article for those who believe VW will win everything from the start... :)

There is no feedback from Latvala yet, may we won't here anything from him until Monte. Ogier just says they don't know where they are and the conditions will be great leveller. There is no surprise for the latter, this year he was 4th with the S2000 Fabia because of the conditions, before crash of course. Lets hope for proper Monte conditions then :D

[Mirek]

Yep, if we think about their drivers they will need more than seven rally cars :D ...The first Polo WRC was named as chassis #0, its number plate is WOB VW 351. Then we've seen the series since 352 (testing in Greece) until 356 (testing in Mexico). Sometimes the number plates of a chassis are changed, but it makes no sense in this short period of time before starting competition. Therefore, I believe they have tested with seven different chassis, although not all of them were the finished version of the car.Are You sure that number of different plates = number of different cars? For example here car makers have number plates dedicated for testing purposes which are not registered to any particular car and can play with them like they want (and they do). That is a reason why it's impossible to trace for example Fabia with plate F-5435 or F-5436 because it was never one car.

[stefanvv]

Ask Jari-Matti and Seb... :D

Mexico crash wasn't that bad, just a scratch :p I don't know for any binned Polos from Ogier though this year :p

[Barreis]

Testes MC Polo WRC | Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.500809909951518.147449.321610754538102&type=1)

[tommeke_B]

cant believe that till now they have tested with 7(!!!!!!) different chassis.Ok they have a good budget,but there is no need for so many chassis just at tests.
They have built 7 chassis... Let's assume that they made one "presentation-chassis" (for example the one that was in Sardinia with presentation last year, Germany, car-shows etc). There was a Polo WRC in RallyLegend with Carlos Sainz (different looks than the one used in tests). Let's say 2 could be scrap now (I would be surprised if less cars are crashed during tests, regarding JML had one last week and regarding it happens all the time in all teams). That would make a number of 3 test-cars ready to use now? Makes sense...

[dimviii]

crashed cars can be repaired.Latvalas crash wasnt a major one.

[jbmarcus21]

Gallery Photos Test Days Monte2013 Ogier with Polo wrc Volkswagen Motorsport prépare le Rallye Wrc Monte-Carlo 2013 ! (http://planetemarcus.com/volkswagen-motorsport-prepare-le-rallye-wrc-monte-carlo-2013/)

[dimviii]

@jbmarcus any video?

[Mirek]

crashed cars can be repaired.Latvalas crash wasnt a major one.

Not always. I think one or two Fabias were destroyed in tests ;)

[nafpaktos]

Are You sure that number of different plates = number of different cars? For example here car makers have number plates dedicated for testing purposes which are not registered to any particular car and can play with them like they want (and they do). That is a reason why it's impossible to trace for example Fabia with plate F-5435 or F-5436 because it was never one car.

For what reason then they put the plates to the car?to consuse who???

[ToughMac]

Have to say that Polo is quite a sight in tarmac trim. It really does look like a quattro tribute now with the vents behind the front wings, nicest looking rally car built with a long time. Pity VAG group didn't go with the Audi A1 rather than the Polo.

[Kielder]

Mirek, of course I'm not sure that there are seven chassis of the Polo WRC. It's possible VW having number plates dedicated for testing purposes, but I don't think so. That's not the German way of doing things.
Many years ago, the first Group A Golf for rallying was registered under the number plate "WOB VW 44". It was only used as test car and his number plate never changed. The same story is happening with the first Polo WRC. We saw it in the first videos when Sainz tested it in Germany a year ago and it kept the same number plates when Sainz drove it in San Marino the last November. If this number plate is still the same, why changing it on other(s) car(s)?. Besides, if the Mexico's testing car and the Montecarlo's are the same, it makes no sense to change the number plates so fast. Perhaps some of these cars are going to be used next year, I'll investigate it ;) .
It's always very difficult to trace the history of every chassis. For example, I'm absolutely certain that the C4's number of chassis which Kubica destroyed in France was #16. That car ran in Italy with the number plate "BH-693-XF", used in the past on chassis #15.
When I posted that seven chassis were built I felt that I was right according to the way VW is preparing his entering in the WRC. They build a car, they give it the following number plate.
Taking everything into account, this is really very funny :) .

[spiderem]

Have to say that Polo is quite a sight in tarmac trim. It really does look like a quattro tribute now with the vents behind the front wings, nicest looking rally car built with a long time. Pity VAG group didn't go with the Audi A1 rather than the Polo.
Indeed, would have been very nice to see a A1 WRC with a white and yellow livery... surely Audi will come back to rally at some point, we just have to wait... Same with Lancia, heu Chrysler i mean!

[Mirek]

Mirek, of course I'm not sure that there are seven chassis of the Polo WRC. It's possible VW having number plates dedicated for testing purposes, but I don't think so. That's not the German way of doing things.
Many years ago, the first Group A Golf for rallying was registered under the number plate "WOB VW 44". It was only used as test car and his number plate never changed. The same story is happening with the first Polo WRC. We saw it in the first videos when Sainz tested it in Germany a year ago and it kept the same number plates when Sainz drove it in San Marino the last November. If this number plate is still the same, why changing it on other(s) car(s)?. Besides, if the Mexico's testing car and the Montecarlo's are the same, it makes no sense to change the number plates so fast. Perhaps some of these cars are going to be used next year, I'll investigate it ;) .
It's always very difficult to trace the history of every chassis. For example, I'm absolutely certain that the C4's number of chassis which Kubica destroyed in France was #16. That car ran in Italy with the number plate "BH-693-XF", used in the past on chassis #15.
When I posted that seven chassis were built I felt that I was right according to the way VW is preparing his entering in the WRC. They build a car, they give it the following number plate.
Taking everything into account, this is really very funny :) .

Yes, I know how difficult it is to trace cars and that from plates it's often impossible. Kronos Racing also used just few dedicated plates for many different 207 S2000 or Škoda Italia which used German provisional plates different in every event. Those are nightmares of everyone trying to follow them :) But if You are sure VW works this way than why not. I was just asking ;)


For what reason then they put the plates to the car?to consuse who???

It's not to confuse anyone. You just have several plates available in the factory which are run under special law - they are not registered to any particular car, only owner (at least here it is like that and I believe in Belgium too). So for testing You use the one which is currently available.

[tommeke_B]

@Mirek: In Belgium it changed a couple of years ago. Now you need a new plate for every new car. ;)

[Mirek]

I'm absolutely sure that in Kronos they didn't have special plate for every 207 S2000. For example the "207 IRC" was used on several different bodyshells ;)

[tommeke_B]

The once even had one plate used on 2 events at the same weekend I think... (Kuweit and Brazil-IRC)

[tommeke_B]

Essais Prés-Monte Carlo 2013 Polo WRC Sébastien OGIER - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CqEc-JjVkA) video.. :)

[uranium]

Engine sound is completely different from Citroen, Ford etc. Or it's just for me?

[Kielder]

Great photo of the recent test:

http://fr.best-of-rallylive.com/var/ezflow_site/storage/images/bestofrallylive/actualites/sebastien-ogier-on-est-tres-realiste/101796-1-fre-FR/Sebastien-Ogier-On-est-tres-realiste_articlethumbnail.jpg

[Donney]

Engine sound is completely different from Citroen, Ford etc. Or it's just for me?

To me it has a classical sound to it, a bit Group B-ish. I like it!

[jbmarcus21]

Gallery [PHOTOS] with JML test days today Volkswagen Motorsport prépare le Rallye Wrc Monte-Carlo 2013 ! (http://planetemarcus.com/volkswagen-motorsport-prepare-le-rallye-wrc-monte-carlo-2013/)

[Kielder]

Gallery [PHOTOS] with JML test days today Volkswagen Motorsport prépare le Rallye Wrc Monte-Carlo 2013 ! (http://planetemarcus.com/volkswagen-motorsport-prepare-le-rallye-wrc-monte-carlo-2013/)

"As white as snow".

[stefanvv]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=fbjvnvNDHPw

[stefanvv]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=EFYgwHsWFQU

BTW, does someone know what is this sparking thing in front left of the Polo, behind the front bumper?

[Hartusvuori]

BTW, does someone know what is this sparking thing in front left of the Polo, behind the front bumper?

Funny how this comes up every year. Mirek can explain it the best, I just say it's there to... measure... stuff.

[dimviii]

BTW, does someone know what is this sparking thing in front left of the Polo, behind the front bumper?
CORREVIT Optical Sensors are still the choice of race teams (http://www.datrontechnology.co.uk/news-article/CORREVIT-Optical-Sensors-are-still-the-choice-of-race-teams/71/)

[stefanvv]

Thank you both, I guessed it is some kind of measurement stuff, but never seen that before. I guess didn't watched enough test videos

[spiderem]

It looks like they had proper monte carlo conditions... Any videos of Latvala?

[Ripplin]

I remember when I first heard the news thinking 'wow, they could potentially win every round next year!' Of course, that'll never happen, but if the car was great right out of the gate... ;)

[stefanvv]

It looks like they had proper monte carlo conditions... Any videos of Latvala?

Yeah, there is one in WRC Testing thread from yesterday - http://www.motorsportforums.com/wrc/112600-wrc-testing-108.html#post1088323

EDIT: looks like he is still getting use of the car little bit :)

[RS]

I remember when I first heard the news thinking 'wow, they could potentially win every round next year!' Of course, that'll never happen, but if the car was great right out of the gate... ;)

Apart from when Loeb appears I wouldn't discount it. VW's major advantage is that the opposition teams are made up of No.2 drivers.

[Japé]

I'd be amazed if Ogier doesn't take this year's WRC title.

Does VW has any plans to run 4th factory car in some rallies? Or is VW planning to run any customer cars like MSport does?

[AndyRAC]

I’d be surprised if VW were to run a customer programme this year – in fact I’d be surprised if they had one at all. They’re in it to win, everything is about succeeding in the WRC. A customer programme would be taking their eye off the ball – why would they need to raise money? They’re hardly lacking in finance; Ford & Citroen they are not.

[OldF]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=EFYgwHsWFQU

BTW, does someone know what is this sparking thing in front left of the Polo, behind the front bumper?

A Correvit sensor works in the same way as a bar code reader. As I suppose all of you have experienced in a grocery store or any other store where you can buy products with a barcode.

I’m not sure but this how I think it works.

The emitter (laser beam or any light emitting device) is sending a light to the to the surface and from the surface the light is reflected back to the receiving sensor.

As in a case of a bar code reader the light is reflecting back to the sensor from the black (bar code) surface or the white one. The signal coming back to the sensor is transferred to the signal processing unit that convert the signal to a digital information that can be used by any microprocessor to convert it to a numeric code. As seen if the bar code reader can’t read the bar code, the code is entered on the keyboard.

The Correvit equipment takes a “picture” of the surface at some moment and then taking an other picture few microseconds later. Comparing those two “pictures” of the surface, the signal-processing unit, and the central processing computer (CPU) can determinate where the car is going (straight, sideways, the speed, riding height etc.). Very heavy signal processing.

Complete Vehicle Testing Solutions (http://www.corrsys-datron.com/technology.htm)

http://www.corrsys-datron.com/Support/PDF_Downloads/CDSAppNote_LaserTriang.pdf

[Mintexmemory]

Well I think it looks magic...... Plain livery expected like the Fabias?

[stefanvv]

A Correvit sensor works in the same way as a bar code reader. As I suppose all of you have experienced in a grocery store or any other store where you can buy products with a barcode.

I’m not sure but this how I think it works.

The emitter (laser beam or any light emitting device) is sending a light to the to the surface and from the surface the light is reflected back to the receiving sensor.

As in a case of a bar code reader the light is reflecting back to the sensor from the black (bar code) surface or the white one. The signal coming back to the sensor is transferred to the signal processing unit that convert the signal to a digital information that can be used by any microprocessor to convert it to a numeric code. As seen if the bar code reader can’t read the bar code, the code is entered on the keyboard.

The Correvit equipment takes a “picture” of the surface at some moment and then taking an other picture few microseconds later. Comparing those two “pictures” of the surface, the signal-processing unit, and the central processing computer (CPU) can determinate where the car is going (straight, sideways, the speed, riding height etc.). Very heavy signal processing.

Complete Vehicle Testing Solutions (http://www.corrsys-datron.com/technology.htm)

http://www.corrsys-datron.com/Support/PDF_Downloads/CDSAppNote_LaserTriang.pdf

Yeah, looks complex "radar" technology.

[Mirek]

Actually radar systems can be used as well. We had one at the university and I remember we used it to evaluate braking characteristics of a passenger car.

[stefanvv]

THE POLO R WRC. LIVE ON THIS WEBSITE http://www.volkswagen-motorsport.com/index_en.html, 08.12.2012:
from 4.30 p.m.: Premiere of the Polo R WRC Street
from 7.30 p.m.: Premiere of the Polo R WRC 2013 World Rally Car

[alleskids]

Well I think it looks magic...... Plain livery expected like the Fabias?

I thing we will see the 2012 Citroen Red Bull livery, switching Total for Castrol and Citroen for VW

[spiderem]

Yeah, there is one in WRC Testing thread from yesterday - http://www.motorsportforums.com/wrc/112600-wrc-testing-108.html#post1088323

EDIT: looks like he is still getting use of the car little bit :)
thanks.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

http://up.autotitre.com/160b7b34cc.jpg

[AndyRAC]

I think it will look similar to that.

On another note; who is in charge of engine development at VW? Who is the VW equivalent of Dr Ulrich Bareztky?

[Mirek]

I think that the engine for Polo is developed by Lehmann from Lichtenstein.

[noel157]

I think that the engine for Polo is developed by Lehmann from Lichtenstein.

Yes, Lehmann Motorentechnik AG are VW Motorsport's engine partners.

[JRodrigues]

I don't think Red Bull will sponsor them.. Red Bull media will be the promotors and that should cause some conflict of interests.

[wwbroe]

According to this article: Mateschitz glaubt an Rallye-WM*:: rallye-magazin.de (http://www.rallye-magazin.de/rallyes/wm/nachrichten/news-detail/d/2012/12/06/mateschitz-glaubt-an-rallye-wm/index.html)
they will do both. So they will be sponsor of VW WRC team and be the promotor of the championship. The promotor function will be done by Red Bull Media.

[makinen_fan]

Hope they keep the car as white as possible. Rally cars look much better in white and some colour logos IMHO, than full colour

[Mirek]

I don't think Red Bull will sponsor them.. Red Bull media will be the promotors and that should cause some conflict of interests.

You are wrong :) Anyway they do the same in other sports without problems.

[AndyRAC]

I don't think Red Bull will sponsor them.. Red Bull media will be the promotors and that should cause some conflict of interests.

Two different companies - both owned by RedBull....there is no issue/ problem.

[JRodrigues]

I still think it would be better not to mix it ;)

BTW, an interview with Jost Capito, talking about VW Group's involvement in motorsport and specially VW in WRC: Volkswagen MotorSport Has A Plan - SHAKEDOWN - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7ZxEzRMPIo&feature=g-subs-u)

[SubaruNorway]

Hope they keep the car as white as possible. Rally cars look much better in white and some colour logos IMHO, than full colour

Problem with white cars is the glare you get so they don't do very good on video and pictures in bright sunlight.

[Mirek]

On the other hand the white reflects most of the light which therefore isn't changed into heat. Especially in summer events that's not completely irrelevant issue.

[Kielder]

The Sporting d'Hiver by the Place de Casino in Monte Carlo is dressed for the dance:

http://i46.tinypic.com/34hatn8.jpg

[SubaruNorway]

On the other hand the white reflects most of the light which therefore isn't changed into heat. Especially in summer events that's not completely irrelevant issue.
Yes, there is a reason for Østberg's S12 not staying all black for very long :p

[WRC1]

Yes, there is a reason for Østberg's S12 not staying all black for very long :p

...and also the roof of the works skodas this year was changed from black into white after corse (AFAIK)

[Mirek]

Yes, if I'm not mistaken it was changed because Jan and Pavel complained :)

[WRC1]

Yes, if I'm not mistaken it was changed because Jan and Pavel complained :)

yes! jan asked me to touch the inside of the roof at regrouping in corse....it was incredible... :)

[Miika]

VW´s new rallysite:
Rally the World | Volkswagen and the Polo R WRC (http://www.rallytheworld.com/en/#/mission)
https://www.facebook.com/RALLYTHEWORLDcom

[EightGear]

VW´s new rallysite:
Rally the World | Volkswagen and the Polo R WRC (http://www.rallytheworld.com/en/#/mission)
https://www.facebook.com/RALLYTHEWORLDcom

I like it! VW is really putting an effort in the WRC entry, and not only on the sporting side but also marketing-wise it seems. :)
And that helmet-holding video is hilarious! :D

[EightGear]

http://www.volkswagen-motorsport.com/

Livestram is live now. Official presentation will be at 7.30 PM GMT +1.

[Rallyper]

This is the start of something really new in WRC!!

The way VW-Motorsport presenting their car and the way personalities attend and speak make everything more important for the future of WRC.

[Miika]

So the only change to the original livery is a Red Bull logo added? Could have done better.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/A9muSpUCUAEh2RN.jpg:large

[tolis]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/A9mwKxVCEAAqQ7m.jpg:large

[EightGear]

That was a fantastic presentation. They have developped a compete new-media platform and strategy, it was impressive.

Also Mikkelsen was officially confirmed as the 3th driver, starting in Portugal. Mikko Markkula missed his plane by the way! :p

When it is available you MUST check out their new-media strategy video.

[Viking]

Dreamteam...

http://www.ralsys.com/irally_admin/news_images/Drivers.jpg

[omer yetis]

why Jari and Miika doesn't have VW logos on their overall's yet?
sorry for my lack of knowledge, does his contract still continues with Ford?

[Salist]

7 minutes yet and beginning the VW Polo WRC presentation in Monaco.

[alleskids]

nothing happens on http://www.volkswagen-motorsport.com/

[rallye-vid]

The stream is running. Check your browser ;)

[Salist]

This is the finally livery.

https://twitter.com/AMikkelsenRally/status/277485332319068160/photo/1/large



So the only change to the original livery is a Red Bull logo added? Could have done better.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/A9muSpUCUAEh2RN.jpg:large

[stefanvv]

This is the finally livery.

https://twitter.com/AMikkelsenRally/status/277485332319068160/photo/1/large

Beautiful

[Negaiss]

Positive - Happy to see proper team launch an of course live stream! Negative - no clear information on Mikelsens programm and of course boring an expected livery for polo WRC.

[Francis44]

Loose the black wheels and thats the livery of my dreams.

[alleskids]

so the the message is: Volkswagen is running the show and the budget, red Bull is only a small partner

[focus206]

I like the livery except for the big "R"s, I would have preffered the VW logo instead of them, but nice anyway :)

[rallyfiend]

so the the message is: Volkswagen is running the show and the budget, red Bull is only a small partner

When you're putting as much money as VW is behind this project, no sponsor is ever going to be able to pay full freight for the space on the car.

[Mirek]

I don't like those fake holes on wheel arches and the dark wheels but I have to say from front it's one sexy car :)

http://www.autosport.cz/img/clanky/b_e61fc8f2f64ceb167eb0a4a1541a4f7a.jpg

By the way there are ZF stickers on the car. Did FIA allow another manufacturer to develop transmission or does VW X-Trac or Sadev like others?

EDIT: Answering myself. ZF owns Sachs and therefore supplies dampers and clutch for Polo.

[alleskids]

with Citroen they had the overhead of the car, whilst Citroen was pumping a lot of budget in the team. The years before that, Citroen was dominating the livery, with a small space for Total

[pucky54]

I don't like those fake holes on wheel arches and the dark wheels but I have to say from front it's one sexy car :)

There are also fake holes on the front ;)

[darkstar]

white livery and black rims, that´s a catastrophy for every photographer...

[Viking]

looks like christmas eve for these two...

http://sphotos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/577809_523170617702196_2103870711_n.jpg

[jbmarcus21]

all photos and videos about VW Presentation
Volkswagen présente sa saison Wrc 2013 !!! (http://planetemarcus.com/volkswagen-presente-sa-saison-wrc-2013/)

[tommeke_B]

RSSP Rallysport Stockphoto - Bathmen, Netherlands - Service rédactionnel, Conception web - Photos | Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/RSSPRallySportStockPhoto/photos_stream)

Some more pics and detail pics (especially the suspension ones are interesting). Also 2 fuel tanks... :)

[Viking]

http://sphotos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/219818_137737829712433_386620656_o.jpg

[spiderem]

No sponsors at all on jml overalls! No time to get it ready, or is he just not a red bull driver?
Ogier with full vw, redbull and tag heuer...

[tommeke_B]

No sponsors at all on jml overalls! No time to get it ready, or is he just not a red bull driver?
Ogier with full vw, redbull and tag heuer...

Still under contract with Ford. ;) That's why he can't wear the VW logo yet...

[Prisoner Monkeys]

I think it looks fantastic, myself.

I'm glad that the Red Bull branding is being kept to a minimum. I appreciate what their promotional arm does for the sports they work with, but I've never had much love for their Formula 1 team, so I tend to be ambivalent at best towards the teams they have naming-right sponsorship to.

[spiderem]

Thanks

[spiderem]

Still under contract with Ford. ;) That's why he can't wear the VW logo yet...
thanks... just look a bit odd, it looks like as if he wasn't part of the team!

[spiderem]

interesting interview of Ogier on eurosport fr : "Pensez-vous que la Polo-R sera au niveau de ses concurrentes ?S.O. : Ce serait une surprise, car les autres sont déjà là depuis tellement d'années qu'on ne peut pas imaginer les concurrencer d'entrée. On sait qu'on a encore quelques points à améliorer, je ne souhaite pas en parler, mais j'en suis conscient."
question : do you think the polo will be at the same level than the others? answer : it would be a surprise, as the others have been here for so many years and we can't imagine that we can fight from the beginning. we know we still have few point to develop, but i don't want to speak about it, but i know it.
looks like vw had a few word to ogier regarding what he can say and what he can't. they were probably annoyed that he was complaining at each interview that the development wasn't going as fast as he hopped...

[Prisoner Monkeys]

I think that's just Ogier being Ogier. He's been pretty outspoken in the past, and it's gotten him in trouble before. I don't know whether he's naive, stupid, intolerant of the modern obsession with presenting a positive public image, incapable of biting his tongue (even when it is in his interests to do so), or all of the above.

[spiderem]

Lol. Being French, you would expect him to be arrogant isn't it?

[Frostmourne]

I really hope with VW motorsport things will be more competitive and more exciting, I hope more FIA regulations that cut down the costs to attract more teams, and I really really hope more attention and publicity will come with Red Bull Media as promoter.

It is tough year for me, I always never had a favourite team or driver, I always support the WRC motorsport in general! But in general I am more compassionate with Finnish drivers, and I think I'll support VW and Mini (in hoping good results will lead them back as a manufacturer team)

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Lol. Being French, you would expect him to be arrogant isn't it?
I don't know. I try not to generalise people based on national stereotypes.

[tommeke_B]

It's better for Ogier to be realistic now, than to talk with big words and disappoint those who believed it after a few events... ;)

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Jost Capito reckons the Polo R can compete for podiums during its maiden season. I think that's a fairly reasonable assessment, and may even be feasible in Monte Carlo, depending on who M-Sport take as their third driver. Barring any teething problems, I expect that Latvala and Ogier will be able to keep Hirvonen honest, since they're all fairly comparable in terms of raw talent.

I wonder if Volkswagen have any plans to make the Polo R available to customers. I can't imagine they would do it this year, but if the car is a hit, it could be a popular choice for privateers.

[stefanvv]

RSSP Rallysport Stockphoto - Bathmen, Netherlands - Service rédactionnel, Conception web - Photos | Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/RSSPRallySportStockPhoto/photos_stream)

Some more pics and detail pics (especially the suspension ones are interesting). Also 2 fuel tanks... :)

What could be advantages of this construction of rear suspension :confused: . Interesting indeed, at least Fiesta don't have this kind, dunno for DS3.

[Mirek]

I wonder if Volkswagen have any plans to make the Polo R available to customers. I can't imagine they would do it this year, but if the car is a hit, it could be a popular choice for privateers.

According to regulations they must make it available.


What could be advantages of this construction of rear suspension :confused: . Interesting indeed, at least Fiesta don't have this kind, dunno for DS3.

What do You mean? The angle of rear strut? The layout of Polo is same with Fabia S2000, just the angles in my opinion slightly differ but generally it is same with Fabia. Frankly I don't know what is exact impact of forward or backward inclination of rear strut but both have same main goal to prolong the damper travel. What comes to my mind is that with Polo/Fabia the damper and its mounting point mass is closer to the center of gravity. Maybe someone can tell us what is the impact on handling.

[T.Maanteiden kuningas]

Quite nice pages. And some specs about Polo R WRC.

When was the last time, when there was some info about WRC car acceleration from manufacturer?

http://volkswagen-motorsport.com/index.php?id=339&L=1

[Mirek]

Usually engine output data officially claimed are far from reality but this time it looks realistic in regard to what Ogier says.

The acceleration is same with Octavia WRC Evo II which was slightly heavier and had 320 Hp and 600 Nm so it also looks realistic.

What is interesting is that they show the suspension travel.

[T.Maanteiden kuningas]

Thanks Mirek, it's interesting how much there is power in WRC cars. Does anyone know real output data from others WRC cars?

[Mirek]

Fabia WRC at its best (CRT Kopecký 07) had 340 Hp @ 4500 rpm and 640 Nm @ 2700 rpm. Especially the torque was bad for 2007 when Ford was around 750 Nm if I have good information. I believe the latest 2 liter cars were close to 400 Hp and well over 800 Nm but except some talks with people I have no evidence for that.

For 1.6T cars I can only guess. If we take for real that Fiesta RRC has cca 275 Hp, than the WRC shall have 330 Hp based on restrictor area.

[AMSS]

Fabia WRC at its best (CRT Kopecký 07) had 340 Hp @ 4500 rpm and 640 Nm @ 2700 rpm. Especially the torque was bad for 2007 when Ford was around 750 Nm if I have good information. I believe the latest 2 liter cars were close to 400 Hp and well over 800 Nm but except some talks with people I have no evidence for that.

For 1.6T cars I can only guess. If we take for real that Fiesta RRC has cca 275 Hp, than the WRC shall have 330 Hp based on restrictor area.

1st spec Fiesta beginnig 2011 had 316hp and 570Nm. Late 2011 beginning 2012 the estimated increase in power has been around 5% and torque 7-10% don`t have exact figures though. The biggest improvement has been in the overall register which has improved alot. As the first spec Fiestas had quit a narrow "driving" range only on higher revs. Now it`sclearly noticable that they have a wide range from low revs up to 7000-7500rpm :s

Latest spec Focus had 346hp and 850Nm torque, the -03 Focus until the newer chassis actually had more power and less torque. Don`t know about Citroen though..

[Mirek]

316 x 1,05 = 332. I feel good :p : :s mokin:

[T.Maanteiden kuningas]

Wow. Lots of information. Thanks guys!

[spiderem]

so they will produce the polo wrc street to 2500 units. Any info on prices and which country it will be available?

[pucky54]

so they will produce the polo wrc street to 2500 units. Any info on prices and which country it will be available?

Available from Sept 2013 for 33900 EUR

[Kielder]

It was impossible to find out for sure how many chassis of the Polo WRC have been built until now. Anyway the two cars which will be at the start of Monte Carlo are being built now and their shakedown is expected to be done around Christmas (a perfect gift!).

[spiderem]

Available from Sept 2013 for 33900 EUR
Thanks!

[Prisoner Monkeys]

According to regulations they must make it available.
Yeah, but if a potential customer showed up wanting to buy a Polo R, would Volkswagen be inclined to sell it? If I were VW, I'd be hesitant to start selling without first knowing how competitive the car actually is. It looks good, and there certainly doesn't appear to be anything wrong with it, but I for one would not be inclined to sell until I knew I had something worth selling - and that means doing a few rallies, not just 20,000km of testing (or however much they have done).

[Kielder]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxNm8C_4SPg&feature=g-high-u

[Kielder]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1YejsYgUHKY&feature=player_embedded

Where can we make offerings to see a Monte Carlo under this conditions?

[Kielder]

Where can we make offerings to see a Monte Carlo under this conditions?

[JRodrigues]

When I saw this photo

https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/45126_449543581771975_2012436361_n.jpg

I instantly recalled this one

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/534721_10151248336688567_344611145_n.jpg

[Rallyper]

I wonder if the´ve done some small "crashtests", for example by letting the rear wheels touch the roadsides and all that can damage wheels, just for knowing which part brokes first. You might find failures which you can prevent happening in the future rallies...?

[dimviii]

I wonder if the´ve done some small "crashtests", for example by letting the rear wheels touch the roadsides and all that can damage wheels, just for knowing which part brokes first. You might find failures which you can prevent happening in the future rallies...?

Jari has just few weeks with vw.Give him some time :p

[vkangas]

I wonder if the´ve done some small "crashtests", for example by letting the rear wheels touch the roadsides and all that can damage wheels, just for knowing which part brokes first. You might find failures which you can prevent happening in the future rallies...?
I think they have done and will do for sure some testing but nowadays suspension geometries are quite boring and current simulation tools are quite clever in this kind of cases. Also individual component/subassembly design can also be reliably evaluated without full car. About all the cars are using same kind of simple suspension geometry, materials etc. so there is not room for very big (reliability) improvements to be made there in my opinion.

One old story.. Marcus has been telling several times that when he was at Peugeot he had a certain favourite jump in Finland that they used every year to test front struts before Finland and many times Marcus used the "opportunity" to find the limits and struts came trough the hood :) .

[dimviii]

nice video from vw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=iIr1_R7j71U#!

[dimviii]

Latvala interview
eWRC.cz - Jari-Matti Latvala o Polu WRC, Ogierovi a sezon 2013 (http://www.ewrc.cz/ewrc/show.php?id=21246&title=jari-matti-latvala-o-polu-wrc-ogierovi-a-sezone-2013)

[Mirek]

I think they have done and will do for sure some testing but nowadays suspension geometries are quite boring and current simulation tools are quite clever in this kind of cases. Also individual component/subassembly design can also be reliably evaluated without full car. About all the cars are using same kind of simple suspension geometry, materials etc. so there is not room for very big (reliability) improvements to be made there in my opinion.

One old story.. Marcus has been telling several times that when he was at Peugeot he had a certain favourite jump in Finland that they used every year to test front struts before Finland and many times Marcus used the "opportunity" to find the limits and struts came trough the hood :) .

You are fully right but still the reliability shall be verified in life conditions. You know the Murphy's law that whatever can fail, it fails? :D I know that from my job. If there is some little maybe, in the end it always happen :) I remember being said that when Škoda tested Fabia S2000 prior homologation they let the cars out on freeze, running them over motorways to testing locations etc. just to make every possible scenario to happen.

[vkangas]

You are fully right but still the reliability shall be verified in life conditions. You know the Murphy's law that whatever can fail, it fails? :D I know that from my job. If there is some little maybe, in the end it always happen :) I remember being said that when Škoda tested Fabia S2000 prior homologation they let the cars out on freeze, running them over motorways to testing locations etc. just to make every possible scenario to happen.
Agree 100% Real life conditions are always the best way to test. Also in my job... :)

Sorry for OT, maybe the best job in the world (not mine unfortunately...)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=La03k7FzlZA

[Arwel Davies]

These VW lot aren't messing around are they. Everything they have put out there so far has been fantastic. Cant wait for Monte Carlo.

[stefanvv]

Agree 100% Real life conditions are always the best way to test. Also in my job... :)

Sorry for OT, maybe the best job in the world (not mine unfortunately...)

Old and cracked cooling pipes :confused:

[Hartusvuori]

One old story.. Marcus has been telling several times that when he was at Peugeot he had a certain favourite jump in Finland that they used every year to test front struts before Finland and many times Marcus used the "opportunity" to find the limits and struts came trough the hood :) .

As far as I remember that story, he tested there with Peugeot to see if the car holds together. Then, in 2006 for the first with Ford testing for NORF, he used the same road and same jump. Engineers were sure nothing would surface, but struts gave in. I think Marcus used a metaphor of saying "they were like chocolate" - which of course is not very encouraging. Soon satellite phones were installed on top of service truck and they opened a line to M-Sport HQ. In the rally, the car held together.

That said jump and piece of road is in Kaipolanvuori area in Jämsä, a renowned test stage. VW Motorsport used it in their second Finnish tests this Autumn.

[Mirek]

In 1980' when Audi tested in secrecy in Czechoslovakia they also had a wicked jump in the test area near Zlín. Czech multi-champion Leo Pavlík who was driving many tests for them that time told a story when he was asked to be brutal to the car to see how it can resist harsh conditions. It was in 1985 and first time there with the S1. Leo said he usually jumped around 10 meters but this time he kept full... he flew 56 meters, top suspension mountings went through the bonnet, the engine mounts broke and that was the end of test day :D

[stefanvv]

In 1980' when Audi tested in secrecy in Czechoslovakia they also had a wicked jump in the test area near Zlín. Czech multi-champion Leo Pavlík who was driving many tests for them that time told a story when he was asked to be brutal to the car to see how it can resist harsh conditions. It was in 1985 and first time there with the S1. Leo said he usually jumped around 10 meters but this time he kept full... he flew 56 meters, top suspension mountings went through the bonnet, the engine mounts broke and that was the end of test day :D

Looks like the suspension strut mounts of S1 have been strong :D At least equal strong to engine mounts. Brave man.

[dimviii]

As far as I remember that story, he tested there with Peugeot to see if the car holds together. Then, in 2006 for the first with Ford testing for NORF, he used the same road and same jump. Engineers were sure nothing would surface, but struts gave in. I think Marcus used a metaphor of saying "they were like chocolate" - which of course is not very encouraging. Soon satellite phones were installed on top of service truck and they opened a line to M-Sport HQ. In the rally, the car held together.

That said jump and piece of road is in Kaipolanvuori area in Jämsä, a renowned test stage. VW Motorsport used it in their second Finnish tests this Autumn.

First attempt for 206wrc at Acropolis(white-blue livery) all had their struts through the bonnet.

[Mirek]

Same problem was frequent cause of retirements of 207 S2000 during 2007 and 2008 seasons.

[AndyRAC]

In 1980' when Audi tested in secrecy in Czechoslovakia they also had a wicked jump in the test area near Zlín. Czech multi-champion Leo Pavlík who was driving many tests for them that time told a story when he was asked to be brutal to the car to see how it can resist harsh conditions. It was in 1985 and first time there with the S1. Leo said he usually jumped around 10 meters but this time he kept full... he flew 56 meters, top suspension mountings went through the bonnet, the engine mounts broke and that was the end of test day :D

Even now, Audi do lots of pre season testing at Sebring - because of it's bumps and rough surface - it's the best testing and preparation for Le Mans.

[cali]

From videos what I have seen so far Seb O seems to be much more comfortable and quicker than JML. Which is ofcourse natural as he has been playing with this car a lot.
But one thing is very noticeable that when there's no grip, Ogier backs off to get himself faster out from the corner while JML likes to push the car more through the corners which leaves him off from ideal line and is slow on the exit.

[CWJ]

Dont give to much attention to last videos since they lately also testet diffs, springs and unusual tyre combinations.

[mousti]

Yes VW did some crash testing...

So testet VW ! - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PiwNWZsiM0&feature=watch-vrec)

[cali]

Dont give to much attention to last videos since they lately also testet diffs, springs and unusual tyre combinations.
Well agreed, but my point was generally to compare two different drivers and their driving styles.

[Coach 2]

Well agreed, but my point was generally to compare two different drivers and their driving styles.

I would strongly agree. I would also claim that this is what differ/or how Ford and Citroen have been working for years. If it is the drivers or the team that causes this differences, or both together, I don't now. But as you describes it clearly tell us that we probably going to have a new Seb similar to the last one.

[dimviii]

Well agreed, but my point was generally to compare two different drivers and their driving styles.

night and day between at these videos,but lets wait.Maybe Latvala haven t find his setup yet

[stefanvv]

night and day between at these videos,but lets wait.Maybe Latvala haven t find his setup yet

Lets mention also Ogier is driving this Polo whole year

[Coach 2]

Lets mention also Ogier is driving this Polo whole year

Could be you are right, but if they (competitors to the other Seb) couldn't change their driving style through the years, why do you think they are going to change now?

[pantealex]

Mikkelsen will drive 10 events, so that means all events after his start from Portugal
(source: wrc.com volkswagen drivers under 30 years story)

[alleskids]

Premiers essais de Latvala à bord de la Polo R WRC - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=5ek7P3YTxmw)

with 2013 colour AND Latvala in official VW Motorsport overal

[kiil]

The roll cage design looks a bit odd. Recent roll cage designs have all been made to shorten seat belt lengths by installing seat belt bars as close to the seats as possible, but this looks like something from the early 90's :-) Maybe not a real car :-)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

JML says the Polo needs to be driven more precisely, what he calls 'like a train' ...

I cant see this being to his liking at all ...

[Kalm]

Isnt that something similar what Mikko said, when he went to Citroen? "Liking" is one thing, stage times may show the other... most of the times a car which has been setup to drivers "liking" is not the fastest car... besides that, we all know that the fastest way between two points is a straight ! :p I certainly hope Jari-Matti adapts his style and does well in VW !

[spiderem]

Premiers essais de Latvala à bord de la Polo R WRC - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=5ek7P3YTxmw)

with 2013 colour AND Latvala in official VW Motorsport overal
Not a big fan of the livery, i personaly don't like the big R on the side, I would have expected something a bit more adventurous!
By the way, i thought JML chose no7 at the highly engineered VW number choosing system of coin toss?

[stefanvv]

I think his car is not ready yet. Looks like they're sharing Ogier's car for the test.

[dimviii]

I think his car is not ready yet. Looks like they're sharing Ogier's car for the test.
they test with same car.

[Prisoner Monkeys]

The car was launched with the #7. This car has the number #8. So I'm guessing Ogier will be #7 and JML #8. That means Citroen will be #1 (Loeb), #2 (Hirvonen) and #3 (Sordo), and M-Sport #4 (Ostberg), #5 (TBA) and #6 (al'Attiyah).

[6789]

Or Tänak #6?

[Prisoner Monkeys]

Or Tänak #6?
I put al'Attiyah as #6 because - as far as I know - he's not doing a full season, and the #5 seat is a ull-time drive.

[MartijnS]

The car was launched with the #7. This car has the number #8. So I'm guessing Ogier will be #7 and JML #8. That means Citroen will be #1 (Loeb), #2 (Hirvonen) and #3 (Sordo), and M-Sport #4 (Ostberg), #5 (TBA) and #6 (al'Attiyah).

I read somewhere that the VW boys flipped a coin and JML won, so he choose 7 and Ogier got 8.

[MJW]

I read somewhere that the VW boys flipped a coin and JML won, so he choose 7 and Ogier got 8. Yes and Ogier told Latvala that he will be the first to carry number 1 on the car, earned on results :-)

[AndyRAC]

Volkswagen MotorSport Has A Plan - SHAKEDOWN - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7ZxEzRMPIo&feature=g-high-u)

VW Motorsport boss Jost Capito explains the Motorsport programme.

[Mise]

EDIT. Yesterdays news. Stupid me.