The goal is to develop a Rally2-spec competition car tailored for the North American market. The American Rally Association (ARA) is introducing a new ARC2 class this season, based on Rally2 cars also used in the WRC.
Development of the new car is already underway, with testing set to begin soon. The car is expected to make its debut on special stages by the end of this year.
Grönholm will play a key role in the project as both a development driver and test driver.
“I’m excited to work with JRD to support the development of this new class of vehicle designed specifically for American rally.”
“Bringing quality rally cars to drivers makes for great competition and is essential for the growth of the sport,” Grönholm stated in JRD Motorsport’s press release.
JRD Motorsport boss Johan Ragnarsson is thrilled to have Grönholm on board.
“Grönholm’s experience will make sure our American made rally car makes no compromises when it comes to performance. As one of the best drivers in the world, Grönholm will bring immeasurable value to the program.”
Grönholm acknowledges that rallying in the United States is still in its early stages but believes the sport has real potential in North America.
“Maybe Niclas (Grönholm) will do one or two rallies with the car. We have to see. I know he likes America, he likes to go there – he came with me when I was competing in GRC and Pikes Peak and he really likes the place.”
“I don’t know how long before I will start testing, before the team has something on the wheels. I will do some driving, some development. But for the competition, I don’t think so – I think this is for the younger boys to do that,” Grönholm told DirtFish.
