The International Automobile Federation (FIA) and the teams of the World Rally Championship are currently wrestling with the technical decisions for next season’s cars. The WRC working group under the FIA proposed its own radical changes to the rules in February, but the top category teams are not satisfied with them.
Read also: Information leaks from behind the scenes of the WRC
However, Toyota decided to test in early April during the Croatia Rally tests what the car would be like if the FIA’s proposals were implemented.
During Elfyn Evans’s test day, the Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 car was fitted with a smaller rear wing, and the air intakes for the hybrid unit were also blocked.
Read also: Material released on Toyota’s rally tests draws attention – here’s what it’s about
Evans was asked about the test during the Croatia Rally held last weekend. The Welshman was initially reticent about the subject. However, he did not particularly hide his opinion.
Did you test the 2025 prototype?
“I don’t know.”
Any thoughts on it?
“I was pretty slow at one point,” Evans smiled.
After the second question, confirmation was sought from Toyota’s media team boss whether Evans could answer questions about the test. Permission was granted, so the questions continued.
So, tell us everything!
“It was as expected.”
Was the car without a hybrid and with a small rear wing?
“I can tell you, it wasn’t so exciting.”
In which way?
“Always.”
Was it drivable?
“Well, yeah. I started and ended my run, so I guess if that’s your definition of drivable.”
I guess your opinion is that this is not the way to go?
“I think my opinion on it is quite clear.”
Everyone can draw their own conclusions from Evans’s responses…
