Short Description
The 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) introduces a new era by removing hybrid power from Rally1 cars, making them simpler and more agile, according to Hyundai’s Ott Tanak.
Read Time
4 minutes 30 seconds
Main Article
The 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) heralds significant changes as it shifts away from hybrid power in its Rally1 cars. As Hyundai Motorsport’s star driver, Ott Tanak, puts it, this new specification brings a return to the fundamentals of rally driving, resulting in cars that are considerably simpler and more exhilarating to operate. With the absence of hybrid components, the cars are not only expected to be slower, as they lose the additional 130 horsepower provided by hybrid technology, but they also become approximately 87 kilograms lighter. This newfound agility ensures these vehicles are less cumbersome on the racetrack—a key factor in rally racing where weight can greatly impact performance.
In the 2025 season opener at Monte Carlo, the WRC will showcase these revamped cars for the first time. Tanak notes that adapting to this regulation change was a significant task for his team, but the results are promising. “Driving-wise, I like it,” Tanak says, reflecting on how the new setup feels more like a traditional rally car. He emphasizes that having a basic concept reduces the numerous strategies teams had to employ in their previous hybrid format.
The new control tyre supplied by Hankook adds another layer of intrigue, as teams and drivers work to gather valuable data during pre-season tests. Tanak’s confidence in his i20 N has grown compared to previous years, positioning him for a successful 2025 season. He states, “We definitely feel much more comfortable going into the season than we did last year.” His familiarity with the team and vehicle highlights the importance of experience in highly competitive motorsport.
Despite minor adjustments like a reduction in turbo restrictor dimensions and overall power output, the focus on an easier driving experience is a game changer. For Tanak and his peers, this simplification leads to a more instinctive and enjoyable rallying experience. As they gear up for action in Monte Carlo, the WRC community is buzzing with anticipation over how these regulation changes will affect racing dynamics and results.
Short Summary
The 2025 WRC season marks a pivotal shift as hybrid power is removed from Rally1 cars, making them simpler, lighter, and more enjoyable to drive. Ott Tanak’s insights highlight how these changes are set to alter the rally landscape, promising exciting competition ahead as teams adapt to new technologies like Hankook’s control tyre.
