Toyota and Hyundai factory teams tested their cars last week in Southern Europe. Testing Rally1 cars outside of Europe is prohibited by the rules, which is why Toyota conducted its tests in Portugal and Hyundai in Spain.
Toyota released a video of Kalle Rovanperä‘s test, drawing attention to what might be a completely new feature on the GR Yaris Rally1 car: a so-called snorkel.
This season’s technical regulations allow for the use of snorkels in Rally1 cars, which helps to prevent water and dust from entering the engine more effectively.
Images from Hyundai’s test have also surfaced, clearly showing the snorkel on the i20 N Rally1 car. The pipe is designed aerodynamically and runs alongside the windshield on the co-driver’s side.
Below are images of Hyundai’s solution.
If you cannot see the images above, you can view the post here.
M-Sport Ford has also conducted tests at its own testing ground. A snorkel was fitted to the Ford Puma during Adrien Fourmaux’s test day.
Snorkels were a familiar sight in the Safari rallies of yesteryears. The legendary rally returned to the World Championship in 2021, but until now, snorkels were only allowed in Rally2 cars. Under the current rules, any car can be fitted with a snorkel.
Safari Rally Kenya will take place from March 28 to March 31. This year, the rally coincides with the rainy season, potentially making for very challenging conditions with many large puddles.
