Despite a lackluster Monte-Carlo rally, Elfyn Evans is convinced that the Yaris Rally1 has the potential to win the WRC in 2022.
After the Rallye Monte-Carlo, Elfyn Evans spoke at the microphone of motorsport.com on its performance and first at the wheel of a hybrid Rally1.
Following a disappointment during the 11th special, the Galois lost all hope in Monte-Carlo. But until then the pilot Toyota was in the race by heeling Sebastien Loeb and Sebastien Ogier. Proof that the pilot is fit and that the new hybrid system introduced this season does not fail him. Despite some problems encountered on the electric motor, the 2021 WRC vice-world champion pull a positive observation of this first round of the season:
“Overall, I think the guys did a really good job. It was always going to be difficult because the tests had not been very huge before Monte-Carlo. To be honest, I was more comfortable in the car during the event than during practice. It’s thanks to the guys, they put in a lot of effort to get the car over the line and all of our cars finished without a problem so that’s a big box ticked and I have to thank them so much.
The Power Stage was OK, maybe not good enough as we would have liked, but it was pretty decent overall. Towards the end I lost the hybrid a couple of times, so it wasn’t ideal, and I’m not sure I did anything to disrupt that in the tough conditions. I didn’t have a problem, I just didn’t enjoy it to the fullest. Overall the hybrid works pretty well and I feel there is still a lot to learn as we move to different conditions.”
The race for performance promises to be breathtaking between Ford and Toyota this season. The Japanese manufacturer has already started preparations for the next Rally in Sweden on snow. And Elfyn Evans is aware of his objective – to win the 2022 WRC championship – and of his 13 points deficit in the championship on his teammate Kalle Rovanpera. So see you on next February 24 for the second round of the calendar, for a Spectacular rally on the snowy roads of Umeå.
Photo : Icon Sport
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