Rally2 (ex-R5) News

[MartijnS]

https://scontent-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/11133768_809392129153250_1936475554147251241_n.jpg ?oh=3b5447a85ba5861e9e219998f536e2fb&oe=55A59841

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/11027493_809392055819924_5069492744511575554_n.jpg ?oh=884a265c36d0b297ce05002fea493e80&oe=55E37CBB&__gda__=1436325426_e1303dcbf760dd0e2965b23fafc4400 8

Nice!

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Reports saying no ERC programme for Skoda and new R5 in 2015.. :(

[RS]

Reports saying no ERC programme for Skoda and new R5 in 2015.. :(

That has been reported here for some time.. we can expect to see them on Ypres and Barum though.

[PLuto]

That has been reported here for some time.. we can expect to see them on Ypres and Barum though.

I think only Loix on Ypres. And I expect in colors of Skoda Belgium, not Skoda Motorsport.

[PLuto]

I don´t know why but I have strange feeling that Loix will drive some international events on Tarmac for Skoda this year. I think the cooperation is very tight. We will see.

He would like to, but there are no similar plans yet...

[Mirek]

According to the press release Jan Kopecký and Pontus Tidemand will do some WRC2 events as well.

[polo10]

According to the press release Jan Kopecký and Pontus Tidemand will do some WRC2 events as well.
where can we see the press?

[Mirek]

So far I can see it only in Czech language.

http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=17139

[polo10]

So far I can see it only in Czech language.

http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=17139
Thanks Mirek ;-)

[Rallyper]

That´s good news! And should be expected to run PT as well.

[John Williams]

In English:

Mladá Boleslav, 15 April 2015 – Green light: the new ŠKODA Fabia R 5 celebrates its debut on the world's rally tracks. ŠKODA Motorsport will contest three elite rally championships this year. Fans can see the new high-tech four-wheel drive Fabia R 5 in action in the WRC 2 category of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) and the Czech Rally Championship (MČR). The new car hoping for victories will also contest the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) during the course of the season. New recruited Swedish super talent Pontus Tidemand will represent ŠKODA in the prestigious championship, with the final being held in the core market of China. Asia-Pacific Champion Jan Kopecký (CZ) and European Champion Esapekka Lappi (FIN) will also take the wheel for the ŠKODA Motorsport works team – now in the new Fabia R 5.
​"We are delighted that the International Automobile Federation, the FIA, homologated our new ŠKODA Fabia R 5. Now we want to see how competitive our new rally car is," said ŠKODA Motorsport Director Michal Hrabánek. He is hoping that the new Pontus Tidemand/Emil Axelsson (S/S) team will be a breath of fresh air: "We already have the Asia-Pacific champion and the European champion driving for us, who have both delivered strong performances over the past few years. In Pontus Tidemand and Emil Axelsson we have added another very talented duo to ensure we have an even better standing for the future."

Former Junior World Rally Champion Tidemand and his co-driver will contest the APRC for ŠKODA. His season gets underway with the rally in New Zealand from 17 to 19 April - initially in the Fabia Super 2000. Jan Kopecký's victory in ŠKODA's core market of China clinched the title hat trick in the APRC in the Fabia Super 2000 for the Czech car manufacturer last year. "I am really looking forward to the new challenge. I am proud that my name has been added to the list of drivers for a brand as successful as ŠKODA," said 24-year-old Tidemand, regarded as one of the most talented rally drivers in Europe.

Esapekka Lappi, who is the same age, achieved something sensational when he won the European title in 2014. Alongside his co-driver Janne Ferm, this year he will compete with the world's elite in selected races in the WRC 2 category of the FIA World Rally Championship. ŠKODA Motorsport makes its return to the WRC at the Rally Portugal from 21 to 24 May in the new ŠKODA Fabia R 5, after a break of almost two years.

"We can't wait for our first race in the new Fabia R 5. We are excited about the new car, it's something really special," said Lappi. "We are delighted to return to the WRC top tier." Also in the new rally car, Jan Kopecký/Pavel Dresler will primarily compete in the Czech Rally Championship, which gets underway with the Rally Šumava Klatovy on 24/25 April.

"I am delighted that we are able to show off the new ŠKODA Fabia R 5 and what it's capable of to the fans in our home country," said Kopecký. Like Pontus Tidemand, he will also make selected appearances in the WRC 2 during the course of the season. The rally old hand believes that the Fabia R 5 will be an instant success: "We have tested the new car extensively. I am convinced that our team of many international engineers has done a great job."

After an extensive inspection, the highest authority in motorsport, the International Automobile Federation (FIA) gave the new ŠKODA Fabia R 5 the green light on 1 April. The Fabia R 5 is based on ŠKODA's spectacular new production Fabia and is the successor of the Fabia Super 2000, which went down as the most successful rally car in the 114 years of ŠKODA Motorsport's history. The Fabia Super 2000 has picked up almost 50 national and international titles in total since 2009, in part due to the successful customer programme.

The new ŠKODA Fabia R 5 is to continue the success story. The new high-tech construction is fitted with a 1.6 litre turbo engine, as stipulated by the FIA regulations. That is a significant difference to the two-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine of the Fabia Super 2000. The new car with four-wheel drive also makes use of a sequential five-speed transmission and McPherson struts. As stipulated by the regulations, the car weighs at least 1,230 kilogrammes. To ensure that everything fits together perfectly, the ŠKODA Motorsport team has invested 15 months in intensive development since the start of the project. The aim is the reward on the rally tracks around the world.


2015 Calendar

FIA World Rally Championship 2 (WRC 2)

Event Date
Rally Monte Carlo 22/01/–25/01/2015
Rally Sweden 12/02/–15/02/2015
Rally Mexiko 05/03/–08/03/2015
Rally Argentina 23/04/–26/04/2015
Rally Portugal 21/05/–24/05/2015
Rally Italia 11/06/–14/06/2015
Rally Poland 02/07/–05/07/2015
Rally Finland 30/07/–02/08/2015
Rally Deutschland 20/08/–23/08/2015
Rally Australia 10/09/–13/09/2015
Rally France 01/10/–04/10/2015
Rally Spain 22/10/–25/10/2015
Rally Great Britain 12/11/–15/11/2015


Czech Rally Championship (MČR)

Event Date
Rallye Šumava Klatovy 24/04/–25/04/2015
Rallye Český Krumlov 22/05/–23/05/2015
Rally Hustopeče 19/06/–20/06/2015
Rally Bohemia 10/07/–12/07/2015
Barum Czech Rally Zlín 28/08/–30/08/2015
Rally Příbram 02/10/–04/10/2015


Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC)

Event Date
Rally Whangarei – New Zealand 17/04/–19/04/2015
Rally New Caledonia – New Caledonia 15/05/–17/05/2015
Rally Queensland – Australia 19/06/–21/06/2015
Rally Malaysia – Malaysia 14/08/–16/08/2015
Rally Hokkaido – Japan 18/09/–20/09/2015
Rally China – China 30/10/–01/11/2015

[mousti]

Sad decision of Skoda neglecting ERC.

[RS]

Sad decision of Skoda neglecting ERC.

I hope that next year they will either come back or there will be an official satellite team like BRR running cars in ERC.

I think VW wanted Lappi in WRC2 this year, i suppose with a view to a Polo seat in the near future. For Skoda as a brand ERC makes more sense.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I guess with missing the first few ERC events Skoda would be playing catch-up if they only entered now..

Plus they have already had so much success in the ERC in recent years, it makes sense to try some new events and be seen in the WRC2 Championship.

I bet the Peugeot Rally Academy and the Ford drivers are glad they have the ERC to themselves this year.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

ŠKODA unveiled its stunning new Fabia R5 today, saying that customers like those in the FIA European Rally Championship are “primary” to raising awareness of the brand though motorsport. "The customer programme is an important business driver for ŠKODA Motorsport,” said its Motorsport Director, Michal Hrabánek. “The revenue helps to finance further development. But our customer programme is primarily a way of increasing the advertising presence of the entire brand. Hopefully, as with the Fabia Super 2000, with many sporting successes.”

Does this mean there will be some private 'customer' Fabia R5's in the 2015 ERC, maybe for the likes of Weigand, and no ERC factory-team even next year ?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Fabia R5 teaser: https://www.facebook.com/motorsportskoda/videos/812719535472739/

[Mirek]

Kopecký himself in the interview for auto.cz. It looks like some hope for ERC still exists.


Do You already know where will You compete this year?

Six rallies in Czech championship. If we could do some event of ERC I would be happy.

[br21]

any basic technical spec?
transmissions supplier, dampers, brakes, ecu etc?

[RS]

any basic technical spec?
transmissions supplier, dampers, brakes, ecu etc?

Brakes are brembo.

This is all I could find:

Car

Base car ŠKODA Fabia 3rd generation

length 3 994 mm

max. width 1 820 mm

min. weight 1 230 kg

bodyshell modified for 4x4 drivetrain

safety roll-cage

Engine

turbocharged 4-cylinder 1 620 cm3

direct injection

max. power 205 kW / 4 750 rpm

max. torque 420 Nm / 4 750 rpm

Drivetrain

4x4

5-speed gearbox

manual sequential shifting

mechanical differentials (front and rear)

Suspension

McPherson front and rear

brake discs tarmac Ø 355 mm / width 32 mm

gravel Ø 300 mm / width 32 mm

Electronics

Sensoren für Motorsteuerung

Fuel system

special fuel tank volume 82.5 l

consumption 0.6 l/km SS

[br21]

thanx! I'm still interested what drivetrain and dampers suppliers they choose, as I know they tested few different.

[RS]

Dampers: Red ones if that helps?!

Short video from todays presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8LTRq9slRA

[HaCo]

What will they do in WRC-2? I don't understand the decision as a brand. A satellite team in WRC-2 would be far more logic. Maybe the titles in the past years were too easy.

[PLuto]

Some pictures from today's presentation runs: http://www.autosport.cz/clanek.php?cl=17140

http://www.autosport.cz/img/clanky/83be8e9bf4922fe7e22c6802719e5152.jpg

[HaCo]

And the green wheels are ugly too! :-)

[dimviii]

Dampers: Red ones if that helps?!

Short video from todays presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8LTRq9slRA

red= sachs.

[RS]

red= sachs.

Is that what VW ended up using on the Polo?

[Mirek]

any basic technical spec?
transmissions supplier, dampers, brakes, ecu etc?

About transmission last thing I heard was X-Trac but they tried also Ricardo and I'm not sure about the final decision. Dampers are Sachs as Dimviii pointed out. They started with Reiger but later switched to Sachs. I think they run Barum on Reigers. Brakes are Brembo as somebody already wrote. ECU I have no idea.

... and the power is sure at least 300 Hp. That PR bullshit values are worth nothing but I don't need to tell You that :)


Is that what VW ended up using on the Polo?

Yes, VW uses Sachs too.


What will they do in WRC-2? I don't understand the decision as a brand. A satellite team in WRC-2 would be far more logic. Maybe the titles in the past years were too easy.

I guess it's VW policy. They want to have Lappi prepared for their WRC team.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CCn-biVWYAABDoc.jpg:large

[Barreis]

More of the same...
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/118514

[br21]

thanx for the info!
seems that in terms of drivetrain Skoda should have some advantage over Fiesta and 208.

In general Xtrac/Ricardo is more expensive than Sadev/3MO also Brembo is expensive than AP Racing. So interesting how they manage to stay under the price limit. Similar thing with Sach, also with engine made by Oreca.
Looking forward to Sumava, Bouffier in DS will be nice to compare.

[RS]

Is engine still made by Oreca? I thought they fell out and the engine was now in house?

[polo10]

Photos from the interior?

[Mirek]

Is engine still made by Oreca? I thought they fell out and the engine was now in house?

I think that the engine was developed in cooperation of Škoda Motoring center and Oreca but I don't know that for sure.

[br21]

I think that the engine was developed in cooperation of Škoda Motoring center and Oreca but I don't know that for sure.

I only know for sure some part of development was made by Oreca, but don't know if it was only small help for Skoda or complete engine development.

[manthey]

About transmission last thing I heard was X-Trac but they tried also Ricardo and I'm not sure about the final decision. Dampers are Sachs as Dimviii pointed out. They started with Reiger but later switched to Sachs. I think they run Barum on Reigers. Brakes are Brembo as somebody already wrote. ECU I have no idea.


why run Barum on Reiger? Is that based on a better past experience on that bumpy surface ?

[Mirek]

They started with Reiger because Reiger supplied dampers for the S2000. Only later they switched to Sachs. I think the change happened only after Barum.

[RS]

Reiger were always awesome on bumpy, jumpy tarmac (think Ireland too).

I presume they must have some disadvantage on other surfaces though if Skoda don't use them for the R5?

[dimviii]

Reiger were always awesome on bumpy, jumpy tarmac (think Ireland too).

I presume they must have some disadvantage on other surfaces though if Skoda don't use them for the R5?

no they dont have disadvantage,is just easier to rebuild/have spares parts for 1 make of shocks,easier to co operate with one company when changes are nessesary etc.
probably they prefered sachs like the mother vw as a German product.Not a bad decision as we saw from polo at all surfaces.

[tommeke_B]

I don't think that Reiger is that much better for bumpy stages. Cars like Fiesta WRC/S2000/R5 and Fabia S2000 were part of a revolution in terms of suspension geometry, allowing the spring travel to be extremely big. I think it's more coincidence that those cars were having Reiger suspension. In R2-class for example Fabia R2 runs on Reiger too, and when it comes to bumpy surfaces it's probably the worst of the class... ;) VW Polo WRC runs on Sachs too. It's likely Skoda can take advantage of the dampers and knowledge developed by VW/Sachs in WRC. And in WRC in the suspension-part nothing beats the Polo, it really "eats" the rough sections and bumps where others (especially DS3) are losing some time.

[Mirek]

Somebody was interested in interior photos. Here they are: http://www.auto.cz/jizdni-dojmy-ze-skody-fabia-r5-5x-video-arozhovor-s-janemkopeckym-86812/foto?foto=0

If I see right, the electronics is Magnetti Marelli.

http://img.auto.cz/news/img/galleries/2015-16/skfa001_552fbf4dc1c46.jpg

[AMSS]

And also another major factor besides obvious good performance is that ZF Sachs is a massive supplier to the whole VAG group in the OE department, a little bit of politics as well..

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Camilli testing his new Oreca-run Fiesta R5 for WRC2 Portugal & 6 Rounds in total...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CCt4UHfW0AEMpoX.jpg

At Oreca
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CCpPb93WEAAIUc5.jpg:large

[WRCKE]

I think only Loix on Ypres. And I expect in colors of Skoda Belgium, not Skoda Motorsport.

Normally 2 skoda’s loix and another private team

[RS]

Normally 2 skoda’s loix and another private team

With R5?

[RS]

Fabia R5 onboard: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9yA77FIKgw

[liposh]

One czech journalist said the top speed on this track during his yesterday laps was 182 km/h. What is the top speed for fiesta r5 once again, please? There are 2 gearbox settings in fiesta, right?

[Mirek]

Top speed of Fabia R5 is more. This was speed they reached, not the limiter. Fiesta R5 normal gearbox is around 175 km/h I think but longer is available. Br21 for sure knows :) Peugeot shall be 175 and 202.

[RS]

What are the top speeds of the WRCars?

[EstWRC]

i dont know the top speed but i think i saw Ogier go 200km/h on some stage in sweden in wrc+ onboard.

[Mirek]

Mini WRC had top speed 202 km/h if I remember right.

[RS]

I don't think that Reiger is that much better for bumpy stages. Cars like Fiesta WRC/S2000/R5 and Fabia S2000 were part of a revolution in terms of suspension geometry, allowing the spring travel to be extremely big.

Continued in Fabia R5, even in tarmac spec:

http://img.auto.cz/news/img/galleries/2015-16/skfa402_552fbf52b5171.jpg

[br21]

Top speed of Fabia R5 is more. This was speed they reached, not the limiter. Fiesta R5 normal gearbox is around 175 km/h I think but longer is available. Br21 for sure knows :) Peugeot shall be 175 and 202.

Fiesta has 178kmh on standard gearbox and 187kmh on longer one.
Peugeot indeed has long gearbox with max speed above 200, but it takes really long to reach that speed.

With WRC cars it's more possibilities as most of them (all which I saw) have gearboxes with drop gears, so you can change different gears ratios, final gear ratios and drop gears...

[RS]

I presume the Fabia in the onboard video was using the longer gearbox as it wasn't on the limiter at 182. Good news as the acceleration seemed strong.

[Mirek]

AFAIK standard gearbox of Fabia R5 has top speed over 190 km/h.

[RS]

AFAIK standard gearbox of Fabia R5 has top speed over 190 km/h.

What about the long one?

The engine must indeed be very strong. I must say I have never heard Skoda as confident as this.

[stefanvv]

Fabia R5 onboard: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9yA77FIKgw

Very good presentation

[Andre Oliveira]

Fast Camilli : http://www.rallye-sport.fr/camilli-decouvre-sa-fiesta-r5/

[stefanvv]

yep, he is fast

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Nice shot inside Breen's 208T16 at the CoI :

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

[Fast Eddie WRC]

ŠKODA Motorsport is in the north of Portugal with the new Fabia R5, the first to start the test is Freddy Loix:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CC4utZaW0AAiwN3.jpg:large

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CC32pg5WEAAgipB.jpg:large

[had_zachau]

And here some video:

https://youtu.be/g56m-m5Hn18

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Another vid:

https://youtu.be/ML1mOIjFZBM

[RICARDO75]

Pedro Meireles will be one of the first private drivers to have the new Skoda. Debut on Rally of Portugal and rest of the national season, including ERC SATA Rallye Açores

[vino_93]

Has he support of Skoda Portugal ?

[RICARDO75]

Yes, support from SIVA

[dimviii]

like this photo
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CDCL7VGW0AAPdjq.jpg

[Andre Oliveira]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpt1/v/t1.0-9/11165179_843035775745233_9005970072615257918_n.jpg ?oh=fd8480184aa4e161b218938fe757905f&oe=55DC27D4&__gda__=1437109712_d920c7ca647f4b530c7391fb7ad3a6a 4
https://scontent-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/11032014_843035429078601_3788885779700791042_n.jpg ?oh=6089256482a96628d7e35aef1bfef359&oe=55DE72DF
https://scontent-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/1484698_843035022411975_8695181111125303707_n.jpg? oh=56b9bc95b4f7cc96c1d72a88bee93d7b&oe=55A6D42F

[Fast Eddie WRC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CDCpSV2UsAAwi19.jpg:large

[HaCo]

Now the Skoda has launched, it's waiting for news from the Opel R5. Fingers crossed!

[dimviii]

BRR already with fabia r5!

http://www.rally.it/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/image53.jpg

[RS]

BRR already with fabia r5!

http://www.rally.it/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/image53.jpg

Cool. What are they going to do with it?

[Fiat-131-Abarth]

Cool. What are they going to do with it?
Austrian championship with Baumschlager, german championship with Kreim, some Wrc 2 rounds with Kremer maybe also hungarian championship with Herczig.

[dimviii]

Koci testing 208 r5 and and Gronholm present at tests

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=AcZhv3KLboA

[Mirek]

BRR already with fabia r5!

Nice suspension travel :)

[polo10]

Nice suspension travel :)
It is incredible the car in gravel specs...it looks so High

[WUff1]

Fabia R5 for german driver Mark Wallenwein ready in June.

[RS]

15 minute video from development and launch of Fabia R5. In Czech so perhaps someone can tell us whether anything interesting or new was said:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=usfDTRQIMbw

[Jarek Z]

Tomasz Kuchar and his new Fiesta. First rally - already on this weekend.

https://scontent-mxp.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/11159528_803040763126014_5216769721584712617_n.jpg ?oh=ba26cb61b4d97de8aee6eaacec42a145&oe=55CFED11

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10930075_802125356550888_2807821907822346942_n.jpg ?oh=ab507af9ad6ffa9bb07cd716072c0ff7&oe=55A6ED9C&__gda__=1436901156_2e26879038560b2af226595ca8e5405 1

[tommeke_B]

Fabia R5 for german driver Mark Wallenwein ready in June.
Do you know by which team the car will be run? He's currently driving a Fabia S2000 from BMA (same team as Loix).

[liposh]

Do you know by which team the car will be run? He's currently driving a Fabia S2000 from BMA (same team as Loix).

Mr. Wallenwein sr. (as team principal) said they are going to buy Fabia R5 Nr.7 ...so most probably their own car.

[Mirek]

15 minute video from development and launch of Fabia R5. In Czech so perhaps someone can tell us whether anything interesting or new was said:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=usfDTRQIMbw

Not many points which have not been mentioned here. But something...

It's really difficult to follow the cost rules and the mandatory use of some stock parts while keeping reliability and performance.
They are optimistic about the performance and reliability and also a about the potential for further development.
Main focus is in privateer programs. They want to start it full-scale right from the beginning not like with the S2000 where it took some time to establish everything.
First APRC appearance of R5 shall be only in Rally China.

[RS]

Thanks Mirek.

I suppose they are more prepared for running a customer programme nowadays as it's not something they really did before Fabia S2000.

[liposh]

Not many points which have not been mentioned here. But something...
Moreover: -not even one mention about ERC
-Mr. Krutsky, the reporter said Skoda will drive all remaining rounds of WRC2 while Mr. Hrabanek said: "We will drive selected rounds of WRC2, Portugal, Sardinia, Poland, Finland, etc. etc. and we will end our programme in Wales."

BTW. That point about APRC is really interesting. Skoda "lent" MRF team one of best European drivers, but they are not interested to show the new Fabia R5 before Rally China, where is their strategical market. Mr. Hrabanek said it is because of logistics, but it is all about importance. Hmm, apparently the cooperation between Skoda and MRF is not so tight and it is just about the business. It makes me think whether MRF team also pays Skoda for using Tidemand :-D

[Micke_VOC]

Tidemand are testing Skoda R5 in Portugal today. ( Also tested yesterday)

[Mirek]

Moreover: -not even one mention about ERC

For me WRC2 decision is clearly about giving Lappi an experience from WRC rounds. It's for sure a joint decision together with VW Motorsport.


-Mr. Krutsky, the reporter said Skoda will drive all remaining rounds of WRC2 while Mr. Hrabanek said: "We will drive selected rounds of WRC2, Portugal, Sardinia, Poland, Finland, etc. etc. and we will end our programme in Wales."

I bet it's going to be 8 events. All for Lappi and I guess 4 for each Tidemand and Kopecký.

[RICARDO75]

Kremer is testing new Skoda for Rally of Portugal

[RS]

It would make sense if Skoda would do all remaining WRC rounds after Portugal, except Australia.

Frankly, they don't need the R5 for APRC.. 'there is life left in the old dog yet'

I suppose Lappi will move into the VW2 team with the Polo in 2016 if he has a respectable year and Tidemand will do full WRC2 next year.

[RS]

Kremer is testing new Skoda for Rally of Portugal

So 3 x Fabia R5 already from Portugal?

[Mirek]

I count four :)

[RICARDO75]

Yes, four. Kremer, Meireles, Lappi and second oficial Fabia for Tidemand, I believe

[WUff1]

Mr. Wallenwein sr. (as team principal) said they are going to buy Fabia R5 Nr.7 ...so most probably their own car.

Sorry I don´t know.

[RICARDO75]

Bernardo Sousa on entry list from the Rally of Portugal, with a Peugeot 208 T16. However, we still cannot confirm whether it will be able to do the rally, due to late reply from sponsors.

[Jarek Z]

Kuchar again:
https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/t31.0-8/11169611_1586248618298616_2237426148651305920_o.jp g

[RICARDO75]

Photos from Kremer test
http://www.rallye-magazin.de/rallyes/wm/galerien/2015/test-fabia-r5-kremer/index.html

[RS]

Kopecky testing for Sumava. I don't know if it's speeded up but it looks very quick.. in two days we will find out:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWFEY_9vHZM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QkOVQbZ1RE

[WUff1]

Photos from Kremer test
http://www.rallye-magazin.de/rallyes/wm/galerien/2015/test-fabia-r5-kremer/index.html

Both Kremer and Baumschlager obviously separated from long term co-driver Klaus Wicha (Germany). New co-driver of both is fellow german Pirmin Winklhofer.

[Andre Oliveira]

http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2015/photos/karl_kruuda_2015/dar_img_5549.jpg
http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2015/photos/karl_kruuda_2015/dar_img_5547.jpg
http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2015/photos/karl_kruuda_2015/dar_img_5514.jpg

[Fast Eddie WRC]

UK junior Chris Ingram takes a 208 T16 out for a spin !

Video https://twitter.com/PeugeotRally/status/590876602528989184

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CC-x9rfWgAApLj_.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CC-x9rcW0AEAO8K.jpg

Maybe he could be driving it in the 2016 ERC ??

[Mirek]

Test of Kopecký before Šumava: http://www.i-motorsport.cz/fotogalerie/galerie.php?raid=399&autor=4

http://www.i-motorsport.cz/foto/galerie/2015/399_4/6IMG-4616.JPG
http://www.i-motorsport.cz/foto/galerie/2015/399_4/22IMG-4611.JPG

[dimviii]

Lappi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=aOxhs3jjYwo

Kopecky test pre Sumava photos


http://www.ewrc.cz/ewrc/fotogalery.php?events=24627&fotograf=246

[RS]

Kopecky video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9heEOWn7MU

[RICARDO75]

Kruuda
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7h0wtR6P98&feature=em-uploademail

[Mirek]

Kopecky video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9heEOWn7MU

Wow, if I didn't know it's R5 I would say it's WRC...

[RS]

Wow, if I didn't know it's R5 I would say it's WRC...

I agree, it looks mentally fast. Acceleration from the chicane section, especially on a loose surface is extremely impressive.

Also, do you think they changed the exhaust maybe? The car sounds a lot louder/more aggressive than it used to, not as loud as the Peugeot, but on the other hand the anti-lag is much better on the Skoda.

[marcosg]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLZn903VufY&sns=fb

Bryan Bouffier a Gabin Moreau, Citroën DS3 R5, testování před Rallye Šumava 2015

[RS]

Tidemand: http://youtube.com/watch?v=HbGYaJUVnJU

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Fabia R5 on these tarmac tests looks so well sorted already, I think it will blow the opposition away... amazing !

[Andre Oliveira]

Miguel Nunes (3 times and reign Madeira champion) alongside RMC car. Madeira? National? News soon

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/11182154_1108154595877535_7657829470570565437_n.jp g?oh=adba8262f1306310c5dfa77a024797a5&oe=55D59B38&__gda__=1436672594_73ecc53a9b893b2b9560278d9977c12 e

[Micke_VOC]

Anders Gröndal have bought a second Citroen DS3 R5. This one from PH Sport.

[RS]

Fabia R5 debuts in the Czech Republic today, results will be here: http://rally-base.com/2015/rallye-sumava-klatovy-2015/

[polo10]

First stage, First win....kopecky wins +7.3 Pech; +9,1 bouffier

[Micke_VOC]

Anders Gröndal have bought a second Citroen DS3 R5. This one from PH Sport.

Ex. Stephane Lefebvre car so should be chassis #10 or #20

[Sulland]

Anders Gröndal have bought a second Citroen DS3 R5. This one from PH Sport.

Just renting it for Norwegian Championship round, too few ss-km left for both Rally Sørland and next WRC2 round.

[dimviii]

fabia inside engine bay photos

http://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/14/76/Fabia_R5-Test_Armin_Kremer_021_147650_5538e5554.jpg
http://www.rallye-magazin.de/typo3temp/yag-galleries/13/99/Fabia_R5-Test_Armin_Kremer_001_139917_5537c4d1c.jpg

[Micke_VOC]

Just renting it for Norwegian Championship round, too few ss-km left for both Rally Sørland and next WRC2 round.

I read that i have sold both subarus and bought this car also. But maybe that is incorrect ?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

R5 Fabia debut day 1:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfDIy0P8fQk&feature=youtu.be

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WoFQl7xcRek

[RS]

Debut win for the Fabia with a 0.63s/km gap to Bouffier. Pretty solid start so looking forward to seeing what this car can do over the coming months.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Perfect start for SKODA Fabia R5 as Kopecky fastest all of today's stages on his way to winning Rallye Sumava Klatovy ...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CDcXQzjWoAAbqiY.png:large

[WUff1]

Unfortunately Pech had to retire - I think times would be more comparable with him instead of Bouffier, who didn´t know the rally and nowadays hardly competes anymore.
On the runner up side, I don´t believe Jakes would have been slower than Bouffier on this rally, and Odlozilik looked faster when still driving his Fiesta R5.

[RS]

I think you're too pessimistic about Bouffier, he was driving WRC as recently as last year. When was the last time Kopecky drove a tarmac rally?

Kopecky was about 0.5s/km quicker than Pech on SS1, slightly slower than Pech on SS2 but I guess he took that one easy or made a mistake as Bouffier was closer to him too on that stage.

[WUff1]

I think it was Bohemia 2014

[Mirek]

Hi guys, I just returned from the rally. You are right that it's pity of Pech's early retirement (also of Dohnal) but still I can make some observation.

Fabia R5 was visibly more powerful than anything except some WRC cars. It was especially notable on the first extremely fast circuit stage where Kopecký was chasing Pech. He was getting closer and closer especially on straights. If there was another lap he would be on Pech's rear bumper.
Suspension wise I had a feeling that Pech's Mini was the very best set car out there. Fabia looked a bit more nervous but definitely less nervous than DS3 R5. Maybe just my feeling, who knows.
For spectators it's good to mention that the car looks really great live and with Kopecký behind the wheel it was very spectacular as well. He was driving quite flamboyant to tell the truth. The sound is nice but it's not so loud. Anyway it's a WRC-like sound, not like the other R5 cars.

[RS]

Thanks for your observations Mirek.

So would you say the acceleration of the Fabia is better than the other R5 cars as well as the top speed? That's quite impressive if they have managed to achieve both.

From the onboard of Kopecky from shakedown the rear end of the Fabia does look a little nervous. But as long as it's predictable I suppose it's not a problem.

[dimviii]

Fabia R5 was visibly more powerful than anything except some WRC cars. It was especially notable on the first extremely fast circuit stage where Kopecký was chasing Pech. He was getting closer and closer especially on straights. If there was another lap he would be on Pech's rear bumper.


this must be the stage Mirek?

http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2015/photos/rallye_umava_klatovy_2015/jp_06.jpg

[polo10]

Thanks for your observations Mirek.

So would you say the acceleration of the Fabia is better than the other R5 cars as well as the top speed? That's quite impressive if they have managed to achieve both
From the onboard of Kopecky from shakedown the rear end of the Fabia does look a little nervous. But as long as it's predictable I suppose it's not a problem.
Where can we see that on board from the Shake down?

[had_zachau]

https://scontent-fra.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/1907524_875387649184790_8948041328365955044_n.jpg? oh=507dc17fd6ee78fbc3cfe96754f83799&oe=55E2B723

[Mirek]

Yes, the photo is from that stage. Here is the onboard:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-dEZzWj2jw

[polo10]

Yes, the photo is from that stage. Here is the onboard:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-dEZzWj2jw

Thanks ;-)

[Mirek]

Kopecký - onboard of SS1 with chasing Pech and some funny talk (in Czech of course): http://www.mediasport.cz/rally/onboardy/7464.html

[dimviii]

cmon tell us the funny talk.

[manthey]

R5 Fabia debut day 1:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WoFQl7xcRek

seems very neat cornering, less understeer and firmer body-roll in comparison to Pech's Mini in the same corner (first part of the video)

[hari]

Kopecký - onboard of SS1 with chasing Pech and some funny talk (in Czech of course): http://www.mediasport.cz/rally/onboardy/7464.html

Quite impressive how easy Kopecky closes the gap to Pech like nothing.

[RS]

Kopecky talks about the first rally and says "now we can keep pushing for a better set up", so it sounds as if he is not 100% happy yet. So there is more to come...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQ1SxR-AiSQ

[Mirek]

He wanted to make some experiments with the setup during the rally as he had a solid lead but the team didn't want to change anything. He said it's due to the fact that while every testing track he drives dozens of times in the real rally it's different. By that he wanted to say that what is perfect in tests after dozens of runs isn't always the best for first attempt on a not-known road. That doesn't mean the setup is bad but for sure it's possible to work on it further.

Suspension travel in asphalt setup
http://www.rally-mania.cz/fotogalerie/2015/1351/1351_rally_Sumava_klatovy_2015_9c8f229947.jpg
http://www.rally-mania.cz/fotogalerie/2015/1351/1351_rally_Sumava_klatovy_2015_cd27696666.jpg

[Mirek]

Some talk from the onboard of Kopecký SS1. It's not totally 100% word to word.

Jan: Do You think we'll catch him?
Pavel: I don't know.
Jan: Are we going to try?
Pavel: Yes. Go after him!
Pavel: Left six minus, maybe water. So, water for sure.
...
Jan: We are a bit closer, aren't we?
...
Jan: Colleague... (I think he wants him to give notes faster)
...
Jan (in the chicane): Holy shit!
Pavel: That was a close shave.
...
Pavel or Jan: Circuiiits!
...
Jan: Well, our goes a bit better.

[RS]

Hehe, not bad for the car's first competitive stage. It seems pretty good on the brakes too.

[cardy]

Do any of the other manufacturers make the R5+ kit like msport do for the fiesta????

[Mirek]

No, there is near non-existent market for it. I believe even in GB only very few such kits were sold. Maybe Wilson only needed to get rid of some redundant Focus WRC turbos and other parts.

[Ounin]

R5+ already discussed on previous thread few months ago, this kit is only allowed for national championships?

[Mirek]

Only where national rules allow it and in most of the cases only with a national homologation which is quite a lot of work to sell few parts here and there. The kit can not be homologated internationally as it's not following the FIA sporting code.

[Sulland]

Looking forward to Fabia int debut in WRC or ERC with top notch competition.

Will they leap to the front and become the thing to have (as the Polo), or will they be equal with the others?

[RS]

Looking forward to Fabia int debut in WRC or ERC with top notch competition.

Will they leap to the front and become the thing to have (as the Polo), or will they be equal with the others?

Watching the pre-Portugal testing videos of Tidemand and Kruuda, I know which car I would rather have.

On the other hand the Ford looks quite impressive.

[RICARDO75]

New DS3 R5 for Printsport

[makinen_fan]

Craig Breen tested the DS3 R5 in portugal
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CDr1CBmUkAEaKty.jpg

https://instagram.com/p/2BKvS5LyWO/

Will he compete with the DS3 instead of 208?

[Rally Power]

Watching the pre-Portugal testing videos of Tidemand and Kruuda, I know which car I would rather have.

On the other hand the Ford looks quite impressive.

For sure MSport will try to use the jokers to put the Fiesta at the same level of the impressive Fabia. R5 sells are essential to the survival of MSport WRC programme.

But PSA makes will probably became a bit behind, unless they finally decide to use their best technical resources on the R5 development.

[M5]

Fabia will blow the other R5 cars off the road, and move closer to WRC1 tempo.

[RS]

Fabia will blow the other R5 cars off the road, and move closer to WRC1 tempo.

I think the problem the other manufacturers will have, if indeed the Fabia is significantly quicker, is that they will always be playing catch up, especially as R5 development is very limited. I think it's important to get it right straight away.

Given that Kopecky managed to outpace Bouffier on every stage last weekend, despite not having driven the car in competition before and presumably a lot more set up perfection to come things are looking good so far.

Hoping for some eye catching times in WRC this year when the conditions are right.

[mousti]

http://rallysport.hu/info/2015/04/04-28_wrc_hyundai_r5.html

Rumours about a Hyundai R5 are thicking again.

Verstuurd vanaf mijn Nexus 5 met Tapatalk

[Mirek]

Fabia will blow the other R5 cars off the road, and move closer to WRC1 tempo.

Let's wait with the judgments for few more events.

[Mirek]

According to Škoda press release the destinations where R5 cars will be supplied till the end of spring are Deutschland, Belgium, Italy and Portugal. That's except Austria where the first BRR car already is. I think it's mostly a confirmation of what we already know.
http://www.autosport.cz/img/clanky/b_b7aee90cc7311523743b23b4d6f58afe.jpg

Kopecký onboard SS12: http://www.mediasport.cz/rally/onboardy/7544.html

[liposh]

And Kreim with Skoda Deutschland will use BRR car?

[RICARDO75]

Already two Fabia R5 on BRR

[hari]

A visit to BRR Workshop and their two Fabia R5:
Galerie: http://www.ir7.at/content/fotos_skoda_fabia_r5_welcome_to_the_future.html

http://www.ir7.at/r5f.jpg

[RICARDO75]

A visit to BRR Workshop and their two Fabia R5:
Galerie: http://www.ir7.at/content/fotos_skoda_fabia_r5_welcome_to_the_future.html

http://www.ir7.at/r5f.jpg

The other R5 is for Kremer or Kreim?

[hari]

The other R5 is for Kremer or Kreim?

Both will drive R5 in future Events.

[liposh]

These pictures are also answer to my question :) ...because one Fabia R5 would not be enough for all these drivers , but two cars are OK ;)

[RS]

Test Armin Kremer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdzhqCHAaBc

Can anyone tell us what is said during the video?

[hari]

Test Armin Kremer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdzhqCHAaBc

Can anyone tell us what is said during the video?

Kremer: Great work has been done in the developing and from the experienced test drivers. The potential of the car is stunning and we have to see to use this potential to result in good stage times in Portugal. Inboard: Very precises driving, only very small things to improve - else it is perfect.
Codriver Winklhofer: Armin Kremer was happy with my work - a perfect start.

[RS]

Thanks Hari.

[hari]

Video: first spectacular testday of Raimund Baumschlager / Pirmin Winklhofer in the BRR Skoda Fabia R5!
https://vimeo.com/126502981

http://www.ir7.at/vr5.jpg (https://vimeo.com/126502981)

[hari]

Gallery from the BRR testday with Fabia R5:
http://www.ir7.at/content/fotos_bestof_brr_test_290415_raimund_baumschlager_ im_skods_fabia_r5.html
http://www.ir7.at/r5ft.jpg

[manthey]

Watching the pre-Portugal testing videos of Tidemand and Kruuda, I know which car I would rather have.

On the other hand the Ford looks quite impressive.

any info about which parts will be improved mostly on the fiesta?thanks

[Mirek]

AFAIK M-Sport has evolution jokers prepared but they are waiting to see more of Škoda before they homologate them. I have no idea about what particular parts are those.

[hari]

Onboard Videos from Fabia R5 from Wechselland Rallye can be found here:
https://vimeo.com/album/3359562

http://www.ir7.at/pr3.jpg (https://vimeo.com/album/3359562)

[RS]

Fabia R5 tests in Greece, Tidemand/Kopecky: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLiuFX034qc

[Mirek]

After crazy things like S2000 Cabrio etc. for this year's Wörthersee tuning show Škoda prepared an R5 Combi showcar :D

https://media.skoda-auto.com/Pictures/Concepts/_w/Fabia%20R%205%20Combi%20(1)_jpg.jpg
https://media.skoda-auto.com/Pictures/Concepts/_w/Fabia%20R%205%20Combi%20(2)_jpg.jpg

[RICARDO75]

I think it's a strange decision not to be foreseen an RS version for the new Fabia. With this new bodywork would be very interesting a sport version, both in hatchback, as in combi and both petrol and diesel versions.

[RICARDO75]

Next Fabia R5 will be possible to see in Germany with Fabien Kreim on Thüringen Rallye, next May 16

[mousti]

Strong rumours about Hermen Kobus, seems he should have ordered begin this year a Fabia R5 who would be prepared by Wevers Sport.

[stefanvv]

After crazy things like S2000 Cabrio etc. for this year's Wörthersee tuning show Škoda prepared an R5 Combi showcar :D

This will definitely have more drag at the rear:)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

What do people mean by M-Sport 'jokers' - could the the R5+ modifications now be submitted for homologation ?

"The Fiesta R5+ incorporates a modified turbo and air-intake system. The standard 32mm restrictor has also been replaced with a 34mm example which provides the engine with an extra 30hp."

[makinen_fan]

What do people mean by M-Sport 'jokers' - could the the R5+ modifications now be submitted for homologation ?

"The Fiesta R5+ incorporates a modified turbo and air-intake system. The standard 32mm restrictor has also been replaced with a 34mm example which provides the engine with an extra 30hp."

R5+ cannot be homologated with FIA. It is just for national championships. Maybe it only runs in UK?
Jokers are some permitted modifications to the original homologation of the R5 car.

Does anyone know for sure what is permitted to be changed and how many changes each car can have?

[Arnold Triyudho Wardono]

After crazy things like S2000 Cabrio etc. for this year's Wörthersee tuning show Škoda prepared an R5 Combi showcar :D


I'd like to see this at Barum as the zero car. And this is the real R5+ (literally). :D

[stefanvv]

I'd like to see this at Barum as the zero car. And this is the real R5+ (literally). :D

If R5 continue to break like this, this can carry more spare parts at the boot. How about for example a spare gearbox?:D

[Arnold Triyudho Wardono]

If R5 continue to break like this, this can carry more spare parts at the boot. How about for example a spare gearbox?:D

Raised the height then we'll have Fabia R5 Combi Safari version..

[OldF]

I had already forgot about Motorsport Monday.

There was some talk about transmission, dampers etc. Skoda will use couple weeks ago.

Skoda Fabia R5 (pages 128-135, technical on pages 134-135)
http://digital.motorsportmonday.com//launch.aspx?eid=3d8e354a-9b2f-49e1-8e4b-a745501ab941 (http://digital.motorsportmonday.com/launch.aspx?eid=3d8e354a-9b2f-49e1-8e4b-a745501ab941)

Better late than never.:)

[RS]

I had already forgot about Motorsport Monday.

There was some talk about transmission, dampers etc. Skoda will use couple weeks ago.

Skoda Fabia R5 (pages 128-135, technical on pages 134-135)
http://digital.motorsportmonday.com//launch.aspx?eid=3d8e354a-9b2f-49e1-8e4b-a745501ab941 (http://digital.motorsportmonday.com/launch.aspx?eid=3d8e354a-9b2f-49e1-8e4b-a745501ab941)

Better late than never.:)

Thanks. Confirms XTrac transmission and Sachs dampers.

[RICARDO75]

Bernardo Sousa test with Peugeot 208 T16
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3NsJm6yTsY&feature=em-uploademail

[RICARDO75]

Testday Citroën DS3 R5 Bob de Jong
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhmlRcjWbcA&feature=em-uploademail

[Reis Eduardo]

Bernardo Sousa test with Peugeot 208 T16
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3NsJm6yTsY&feature=em-uploademail

Not Bernardo Sousa, but Bruno Magalhaes with Hugo Magalhães in France with Delta Rally test for Sata Rally Azores.

[Andre Oliveira]

Yes, same codriver ahah

[manthey]

https://twitter.com/fernandoalbes/status/598318629726347264
test Fernando Albes Fiesta r5 Evo

[Mirek]

That Škoda R5 Combi showcar seems to be real R5 judging by the interior features R5 :p

https://scontent-bru.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/p480x480/11036420_822679954491134_8382969685473260219_n.jpg ?oh=6a0b33ad7479ef7fa207d5eec769d876&oe=55C74CA3
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xft1/v/t1.0-9/p480x480/11253688_822679871157809_206702695742248691_n.jpg? oh=c7696b052ec25cdadd5befa1e33b35ae&oe=5604202A&__gda__=1439650229_a96f50a2f3c714a376010304301e05a f
https://scontent-bru.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/p480x480/1234137_822680087824454_9031995057621603813_n.jpg? oh=3fd7588ad32d9a434592cc26a8ef77f5&oe=55D6365B
https://scontent-bru.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xta1/v/t1.0-9/p480x480/17695_822679967824466_3667063011964835639_n.jpg?oh =b47487342475f0dad7435554a3b5cbac&oe=55C0F4F2
https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xtf1/v/t1.0-9/p480x480/11119124_822680084491121_1335198552407842241_n.jpg ?oh=e4cbea39da3babbfdab88a5a68f2ff4b&oe=55D950F4&__gda__=1439631322_e60392d414ec3948ef853926f4c71a1 b

[WUff1]

German Fabia R5 for Kreim from BRR/Skoda Auto DE - much worse than the orginal design of Skoda CZ in my opinion:

https://scontent-ams.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/11212785_10153354996384973_7575574840727672471_n.j pg?oh=c017cc844ef4e9312ad4a952b6dfbb0a&oe=55DB82B3

[stefanvv]

me like it

[RS]

Cool about the R5 Combi :) I hope we will see it driven.

[Arnold Triyudho Wardono]

Oh my God..!!
That R5 Combi is gorgeous..(bring it on, Codies Racing)

[Fiat-131-Abarth]

Cool about the R5 Combi :) I hope we will see it driven.
It would be the ideal course car for the czech championship to replace the two civil Octavias ;-)))))

[RS]

Kopecky donuts with the R5: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEEFPNPNEZU

[Sulland]

Do Skoda have any plans of making a R5 inspired road model?
Maybe not 4wd, but a widebody model, and a buffed up engine.

[Mirek]

I'm 99% sure that not. Maybe some rs comes later but sure without any wide body kit.

[tommeke_B]

Do you think the previous Fabia R5 was a profitable car? With Fiesta ST, 208 GTi, Clio RS and some others there's a big competition for a very small market.

[liposh]

I'm 99% sure that not. Maybe some rs comes later but sure without any wide body kit.

I agree. If they didn´t put wide body to Fabia II RS, which looks just ridiculous with its narrow body and every fan was thinking about it those days, they will never do it.

[Mirek]

Do you think the previous Fabia R5 was a profitable car? With Fiesta ST, 208 GTi, Clio RS and some others there's a big competition for a very small market.

Frankly I don't know but I remember that the first RS (diesel one) was the best selling Fabia version in UK so likely it was profitable.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Camilli's R5 for Portugal ..

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CFC-IWuWAAAhupT.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CFC-H5qWYAEhGJ4.jpg

[AndyRAC]

Do Skoda have any plans of making a R5 inspired road model?
Maybe not 4wd, but a widebody model, and a buffed up engine.

Hmmm, I'd say probably not. The Fabia Mk3 doesn't have a vRS, which I think is a shame; as I think the Mk3 is a decent looking car - far better than the Mk2 which was not a great looker.
I think the vRS cars only sold well in the UK and possibly Germany; which is why they've dropped it. I did have a Mk1 vRS in race blue, and it was a great little car; quick-ish, and economical.

[Mirek]

Andy, I wouldn't be sure about that. If You look back in time both the Mk1 and Mk2 RS came much later than the initial stock model. With the Mk2 RS the rhetorics was same but despite that they made it.

In fact there was a serious reason why it was so late with Mk2 as the DQ200 gearbox didn't fit in the platform. Originally they didn't want to modify it but later they did.

[Andre Oliveira]

Bernardo Sousa / Hugo Magalhães

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpt1/v/t1.0-9/11159998_895163840547013_2563394583861707327_n.jpg ?oh=6dbe8c56497e2090ce1e883d7de575ea&oe=55C54841&__gda__=1443198533_22b2c4d5726db1517f1cfe38ffe7927 4

Pedro Meireles / Mário Castro

https://scontent-mad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/11017868_1056195041075197_659833143420667085_n.jpg ?oh=67f4b120b79377c005b5627a695ad1c8&oe=55CCB418

[AndyRAC]

Andy, I wouldn't be sure about that. If You look back in time both the Mk1 and Mk2 RS came much later than the initial stock model. With the Mk2 RS the rhetorics was same but despite that they made it.

In fact there was a serious reason why it was so late with Mk2 as the DQ200 gearbox didn't fit in the platform. Originally they didn't want to modify it but later they did.

I hope I am wrong; I'm only going on what I remember from a few car magazine articles when the Mk3 was announced. Though a Skoda UK spokesman said "We wouldn't say never, though".

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Kruuda

http://staticv2.revistascratch.com/images/noticia/karl-kruuda-prueba-su-peugeot-208-t16-r5_full.jpg

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I hope I am wrong; I'm only going on what I remember from a few car magazine articles when the Mk3 was announced. Though a Skoda UK spokesman said "We wouldn't say never, though".

I said a while ago that it seems strange that Skoda are so heavily involved in rallying with the Fabia yet dont have a hot-hatch of the same model to buy...

How many rally fans will buy a 'normal' Skoda due to the promotion of the brand when they could have a high-performance Ford, Renault , Peugeot etc ?

[RS]

I said a while ago that it seems strange that Skoda are so heavily involved in rallying with the Fabia yet dont have a hot-hatch of the same model to buy...

How many rally fans will buy a 'normal' Skoda due to the promotion of the brand when they could have a high-performance Ford, Renault , Peugeot etc ?

The point you are missing here is that rally fans are a tiny part of the market. Having a motorsport programme still reflects well on Skoda as a brand but the amount of people who actively follow rallying, especially in the UK, is minuscule.

[Mirek]

How many rally fans will buy a 'normal' Skoda due to the promotion of the brand when they could have a high-performance Ford, Renault , Peugeot etc ?

We discussed that already several times. Marketing works different way than You think.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

We discussed that already several times. Marketing works different way than You think.

I do understand the general marketing and publicity they gain, I just think they could get even more by having a road car that would also give the model a 'halo' effect.

[AdvEvo]

I do understand the general marketing and publicity they gain, I just think they could get even more by having a road car that would also give the model a 'halo' effect.


Yep excactly. I loose interest in rallying because i can't buy and Evo RS like car from brands who are active in rallying nowadays.

It's like holding some meat in front of you're dog. He can smell it but that s about it. If you hold that same meat ten times before him then the 11th time he doesn t even look up anymore.

Rallying has become a party for themselves. We customers can buy boring FWD cars with WRC sticker on the side. They can keep that piece of junk and stick up where the sun does not shine.

We customers finance the whole motorsport activities. If you don t buy new cars they don t make money. So it s about time to give us something in reward like mitsubishi did with the Evo RS series. Mechanical Diffs and 300 hp 4wd.

[tommeke_B]

Yep excactly. I loose interest in rallying because i can't buy and Evo RS like car from brands who are active in rallying nowadays.


Time for you to find another sport with nice cars then.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ford is a bit strange too... they rallied the Fiesta for 5 years before bringing out a real performance version (Fiesta ST 1.6T). They could have sold thousands of these if they had brought something like it out earlier, so they lost all those sales to Renault, MINI, Vauxhall, etc.

[Mirek]

How do You know that ST is profitable at all? What if it's only an image maker? I believe they know what they are doing.

[RS]

Ford is a bit strange too... they rallied the Fiesta for 5 years before bringing out a real performance version (Fiesta ST 1.6T). They could have sold thousands of these if they had brought something like it out earlier, so they lost all those sales to Renault, MINI, Vauxhall, etc.

I am not sure I have seen even one Fiesta ST in real life, nor (m)any of the others you mention. I believe the second Fabia RS actually outsold the Polo and Ibiza equivalent in the UK at least, but even they are not continuing with that.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I am not sure I have seen even one Fiesta ST in real life,

Seriously ? There are absolutely loads of them around where I live. My local tuner had about 25 there the other week for a RR day:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v282/EddieFocus/FACELIFT%20ST/2015-03-21%2011.14.05_zpsmyrzjr3u.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v282/EddieFocus/FACELIFT%20ST/2015-03-21%2011.07.25_zpsvylcwmru.jpg

I'd say they are outselling other hot-hatches in the UK hands down.

[N.O.T]

Ford is a bit strange too... they rallied the Fiesta for 5 years before bringing out a real performance version (Fiesta ST 1.6T). They could have sold thousands of these if they had brought something like it out earlier, so they lost all those sales to Renault, MINI, Vauxhall, etc.

Your mentality is false from a marketing point of view...

Manufacturers just want to promote a model not a specific version. No matter how many sales the ST has it will never be a high profitable car for the company.

Look at citroen for example all these years in the WRC with all those titles and they have not produced a single high performace vehicle based on their WRC worth mentioning... even the c4 Loeb version was a trash.

Only Mitsubishi and Subaru promoted their road going versions through the WRC and we can see how this panned out for them...

[AL14]

Yes, manufacturers join motorsports to enhance brand reputation and authority, it's something several steps back before the act of selling.

[Andre Oliveira]

Pontus Tidemand car don't go out of truck

https://scontent-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xat1/v/t1.0-9/s720x720/11295660_1128557047173721_7540026407465755561_n.jp g?oh=e595d2dffd9dbf452e0fd27e3336440f&oe=55FEAA22

[dimviii]

what do you mean ''dont go out of truck''?

[Andre Oliveira]

Didn't participate on monday test

[RS]

Didn't participate on monday test

Is Pontus not back from New Caledonia or did he use Lappi's car?

[Mirek]

In the past Škoda used to have a special car dedicated for tests with them.

[AMSS]

Anybody got a better picture of Fabia R5 front suspension, looks like Skoda has done something very very different than other manufactorers with front strut angle/upright pickup points...

[Mirek]

Yes, they really did it... afaik there was a lot of controversy about that.

http://www.i-motorsport.cz/foto/galerie/2015/399_4/4IMG-4496.JPG
http://www.i-motorsport.cz/foto/galerie/2015/399_4/22IMG-4611.JPG

[RS]

Has anyone worked out the reason they did this yet? I suppose it is something to do with all four suspension corners having to be the same and this being the best overall solution?

[AMSS]

Rules are such yes but has been ever since S2000 and 1,6 WRC came and no one else has opted to do it like this..

[manthey]

very interesting from a technical point

vw polo has a different solution from this photo of 2013, do you know if also they changed something?

http://www.holtenmedia.no/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Volksvagen-Finland.jpg

[Mirek]

The basic geometry of Polo WRC is taken from Fabia S2000, of course modified.

[RS]

Talking of Fabia suspension, a good little video here: https://twitter.com/voiceofrally/status/600251558870327296

[Micke_VOC]

Is Pontus not back from New Caledonia or did he use Lappi's car?

Pontus arrived in Portugal on Monday night straight from Caledonia.

[Sulland]

Day 2 in Portugal, and we start to see the potential of the Fabia from Lappi and Tidemand!

Smashing the other WRC2 times, and catching Nasser soon.
Pontus says that they are still driving with securtity, to get to the finish.

[Mirek]

http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2015/photos/rallye_esk_krumlov_2015/vbe_vb_016.jpg

[Tomvwb]

They are working with this kind of suspension for several reasons, better steering with this shock at and they are gaining a lot foe front brake cooling. Yet despite the reverse itself, they still work with positive caster.

[Mirek]

Thanks, that's interesting.

[manthey]

another good view on the fabia's shocks

http://www.ewrc.cz/images/2015/photos/rallye_esk_krumlov_2015/tka_89.jpg

[Mirek]

Regardless the design I personally don't like how the car behaves particularly on jumps. In the videos from Portugal jumps (shakedown, both jumps on Fafe etc.) the car always hit end stops in the landing with visible rebound. Also here during Rally Český Krumlov there was rather large number of jumps, this time on asphalt and in nearly all Fabia hit ground by the sumpguard. For sure it's connected with general softness of the suspension. As I said I'm no expert but I feel that in this moment it's not yet how it shall be.

[RS]

Quite strange that they didn't have this sorted after all the testing. Did they make a late change to the design?

[Mirek]

Some info from Kopecký. In this moment there is only one final drive available. The top speed is as said before over 190 km/h. Rules allow two gear ratios to be homologated therefore the second option is still opened for future development.

[RS]

Some info from Kopecký. In this moment there is only one final drive available. The top speed is as said before over 190 km/h. Rules allow two gear ratios to be homologated therefore the second option is still opened for future development.

Quite wise. I have not often seen the car hit it's rev limiter yet, so maybe they'll actually go a little shorter for the twisty events.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Kajetan Kajetanowicz will drive a brand new LOTOS Rally Team Fiesta R5 on the SATA Rallye Açores.

The Fiesta R5 Katjo has driven previously this year will be seen on Rallye Açores – in the very capable hands of seven-time Azorean rally champion Ricardo Moura.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Bruno Magalhães 208T16 livery for Azores:

http://www.fiaerc.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/10003946_10206084182078997_790475659136852674_n-800x565.jpg

[TWRC]

It will be interesting to see how the Peugeots will be doing in Azores, WRC Portugal was less than stellar with 2 or 3 engine failures. Interestingly, the DS3s fared a bit better, with Lefebvre and Kruuda (except for a roll) not having many issues, but the others weren't so lucky...

[Rally Power]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CFemeN2WIAAZwgn.jpg

Meireles touch in Portugal pre rally test result in a unexpected fissure at the engine block. Can the Fabia suspension design make the engine more exposed to front wheels strong impacts?

[Livewireshock]

641

Porcelain inspired livery on a new Fiesta R5 being prepared for the 2015 Chinese Rally Championship, starting in Hunan this weekend. The sponsor is a local alcohol producer that has produces Beijiu (White Spirit) made from rice in white ceramic bottles. Thanks to Miss Rabbit for the picture.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Rok Turk will make his competition debut in a Peugeot 206 T16 on this weekend’s FUCHS Saturnus Rally Velenje...

http://www.fiaerc.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Rok-Turk-Blanka-Kacin-Peugeot-208-T16-800x533.jpg

[OldF]

It will be interesting to see how the Peugeots will be doing in Azores, WRC Portugal was less than stellar with 2 or 3 engine failures. Interestingly, the DS3s fared a bit better, with Lefebvre and Kruuda (except for a roll) not having many issues, but the others weren't so lucky...

By the latest issue of MotorsportMonday (http://digital.motorsportmonday.com/launch.aspx?eid=0fa8a0c9-8934-435f-b4b6-399ac133a69c) (page 99) the problem for Peugeot was their air intake system that allowed dust to enter either the engine or the oil pump which damaged the engines. Citroen has a different air intake system design.

As an aside comment. If the dust reach the oil pump, doesn’t it have to go true the engine?

[Andre Oliveira]

641

Porcelain inspired livery on a new Fiesta R5 being prepared for the 2015 Chinese Rally Championship, starting in Hunan this weekend. The sponsor is a local alcohol producer that has produces Beijiu (White Spirit) made from rice in white ceramic bottles. Thanks to Miss Rabbit for the picture.


Should be chassis 87, ordered by Neall Mcshea

[TWRC]

According to eWRC, Gröndal retired his DS3 with oil pressure problems - so that implies that his engine sucked in dust as well, and maybe Giordano had the same engine trouble as the Peugeots had before the event. But I've seen first hand last summer that the 208 had no problem on a rough surface similar to Portugal and with a lot of hanging dust as well, so either they changed something or I don't know... This inconsistency is very strange, there are teams who have very few problems (i.e. Andreucci / Racing Lions), and there are others that have a mighty struggle (PA Racing is one that jumps into my mind, the car they bought from TRT has one finish in its last 8 events or so). Well, I hope they can get things going, but if they can't, I wouldn't be surprised to see some people fired for this fiasco and the Dakar as well...

Edit: of course this is a reply to OldF, just missed the reply button :D

[OldF]

Well, what I posted is what was said on MotorsportMonaday and I don’t know how reliable that information is. Maybe they just write their own opinions about the issue.

I start to having a feeling that’s what to believe and what to not. The only thing that I’m sure about is that I haven’t any information that I could say is the absolute truth.:)

Maybe better not posting anything.:D

[TWRC]

I'm not saying it is wrong what they have in the magazine (as the 2003-04 Fords had the same problem every year in Cyprus with the symptomps Peugeot had in Portugal), but the fact that they have such a heavy difference in reliability between teams or even individual cars is actually amazing! :D I can't recall any make or car that was just like this... one weekend absolutely problem free, on the other it breaks on the second stage with brand new parts. Maybe Mulder and Scully will debut their own 208 soon :D

[OldF]

Yes, it seems odd but I don’t have a clue why.:confused:

[focus206]

Rok Turk will make his competition debut in a Peugeot 206 T16 on this weekend’s FUCHS Saturnus Rally Velenje...

http://www.fiaerc.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Rok-Turk-Blanka-Kacin-Peugeot-208-T16-800x533.jpg

A bit OT, but what are the plans of Turk this year? Will he also continue in JERC with 208 R2?

[PLuto]

A bit OT, but what are the plans of Turk this year? Will he also continue in JERC with 208 R2?

He is not doing JERC, he is too old to do it. He is doing ERC3. His plans were to continue in some other ERC rounds, so I hope he will fullfil this plans :)

[focus206]

He is not doing JERC, he is too old to do it. He is doing ERC3. His plans were to continue in some other ERC rounds, so I hope he will fullfil this plans :)

ah, I see, thanks for the answer :)

[WRCKE]

Skoda delivered this morning the new R5 for Freddy Loix