Two months after joining Hyundai’s WRC test team, Australian rally star Chris Atkinson is back on home ground to follow the action in Coffs Harbour.
Wrc.com spoke to Chris about his new role developing the all-new i20 World Rally Car and his plans for the season ahead.
Q: Tell us about your role with Hyundai.
CA: “Basically I’m a test driver along with the other two guys (Juho Hanninen and Bryan Bouffier) and we’re helping develop the car along with the engineers and the team. We’re trying to move things forward as quickly and as well as possible so we try to follow a good structured programme and give good feedback.”
Q: How much time have you spent in Europe at the Hyundai factory?
CA: “I have only done the one test in France which was over three days. I’m sure I will be heading back soon to do some more. Unfortunately I missed out on testing in Finland, which I would have loved to have done, but we had a new addition to our family. I’m looking forward to getting back in the car as soon as possible. I know the guys have been busy over there.”
Q: What is the i20 like to drive?
CA: “I can’t say too much, but everything is going well and according to plan. The biggest thing is that it’s a short time to the start of the 2014 season so everything has to be in a good order by then.”
Q: Looking ahead to 2014, is your aim try to secure a permanent drive there?
CA: “As with everyone, I want to drive in WRC. I have been here a lot in the past and it would be great to come back. I have a lot to offer to the championship and there is still unfinished business. I’ve had a few seconds and thirds, but never a win so that would be nice one day. But the decision will be made later in the year and at the moment the focus is on the testing.”
Q: Do you know when Hyundai will make a driver announcement?
CA: “No, I’m not sure. The focus is on testing and the decision on drivers will come at a later stage.”