Ian Robertson and David Lapworth on the new MINI Countryman WRC
With the unveiling of the new MINI Countryman WRC at the Paris Auto Show, rally car enthusiasts are wild about the upcoming 2011 season. After a long hiatus from the sport, the legendary car company is
poised to make its comeback, hoping to restore some of the golden age glory that it acquired in the ‘60’s. Prodrive technical director David Lapworth and the head of marketing, Ian Robertson, discussed their plans for MINI’s future with Autosport, and gave
a brief insight into the technical aspects of the car.
“Our involvement in the World Rally Championship effectively sees MINI returning to its roots,” explained Robertson. “On the one hand, MINI can look back on a unique success story. On the other hand, MINI
is the epitome of excitement for millions of fans around the world and thrills them with its energy. This is precisely what we are able to authentically and sustainably represent through our motorsport involvement in the World Rally Championship, with its
big TV and media presence. Thrilling rally events, ultimate performances by man and machine, and as much success as possible, of course: motorsport is pure emotion – just as MINI is for its fans.”
British-based firm Prodrive, renowned for its expertise in motorsport, will assist MINI’s endeavour to pursue the 2011 World Rally Championship, as well as supplying the roll-cage for the chassis. Development
of the vehicle has already shown signs of progress, and Lapworth is confident that the Countryman vehicle will be primed up to go next year. Yet in comparison to the other rally vehicles, the technician believes there is still more work to be done. “There's
going to be less torque from this engine, because we have 1.5-bar of [turbo] boost on a 1.6-litre engine; there's not going to be the same low-speed torque that we have from the current cars... Overall, the difference in the performance is not going to be
stunningly different for the people watching from the outside. Inside the car, I think the drivers will have to work harder with the gears, but the cars are not going to be that much slower.”
Indeed, despite the sophisticated craftsmanship showcased by the crew, it will take time for the little powerhouse to burn the tracks again.
“Anyone wanting to be successful in a World Championship must first gain experience and put in a lot of hard work,” said Robertson. “Six rallies are planned for next year. In 2012 we will compete for the
full season. It goes without saying we want to be competitive as quickly as possible, and I am optimistic we will succeed. For that reason it is essential that we learn as much as possible within a very short time, in order to make up ground on our rivals.
The new regulations mean the gap to the top is smaller than it would have been another time. You can plan your own performance in motorsport, but not a title win. All you can do is work as hard as possible to move closer to your goal. Our goal is to win the
World Championship.”
Robertson also outlined MINI’s other aspirations, emphasizing the gravity of carrying on tradition and merging it with new and innovative ideas. A one of a kind in its field, the Countryman is a suave
fusion of the classic MINI and a rugged recreational vehicle, exhibiting the company’s first ever four-wheel drive. Another new feature is the addition of two back doors, a development which enhances the phrase, “Mini on the outside, maxi on the inside.” The
Countryman has also taken on a greener role, and is lower on fuel and emissions.
And Robertson is serious about the Countryman’s financial sustainability as well. “We assume the costs will be about 25 percent lower than would have been the case in previous years,” he predicted.
“This was a huge influence on our decision to become involved. The WRC offers Mini an attractive platform – with manageable costs. The cost/performance ratio is excellent.”
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