M-Sport unveiled the brand new Ford Puma Rally1 car for the 2022 FIA World Rally Championship, bringing electrified performance into the mix as specified by the new regulations. The rally car that replaces the Fiesta WRC, launches at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the form of a development prototype before making its racing debut at the 2022 Monte Carlo Rally in January.New Ford Puma Rally1
According to the new regulations, all 2022 WRC cars will be plug-in hybrids allowing for increased power output and electric-only mobility when driving through cities and service packs between the racing stages. Furthermore, instead of gasoline, they will use sustainable fossil-free fuel blending synthetic and biodegradable elements.
In this context, the Puma Rally1 is fitted with the same turbocharged 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine used by its predecessors, but in this case, combined with an electric motor producing an extra 134 hp boost for up to three seconds. The energy is stored in a 3.9 kWh battery that can be recharged either by regeneration during braking and coasting, or by an external power source at the service points in just 25 minutes. The liquid and air-cooled plug-in hybrid system weighing 95 kg, is protected by a ballistic-strength casing resistant to debris and possible crashes.
On the outside, the Puma Rally1 has received a series of modifications compared to the production variant. For starters, it is significantly lowered, losing its SUV stance while sitting on white multispoke racing wheels. The aggressive aero package under the camouflage-like wrap, includes wider front and rear fenders, a new grille, a pronounced splitter, a roof scoop, and a huge rear wing. As a result, the Rally1 looks like a beast, even when we compare it to the performance-oriented Ford Puma ST.
The M-Sport Puma Rally1 prototype will be driven at the Goodwood hill climb by M-Sport Ford WRT driver Adrien Fourmaux and M-Sport Ford test driver Matthew Wilson, before continuing its development for the 2022 season. Among its competitors will be the updated Toyota Yaris WRC and Hyundai i20 WRC which will also gain hybrid powetrains.
