Hyundai reveals 2015 WRC challenger

Hyundai has pulled the wraps off its challenger for the 2015 World Rally Championship, complete with additional backing from the manufacturer’s affiliate brands. The Korean firm, which returned to the premier class of rallying last season, will kick off its 2015 campaign in Monte Carlo with Thierry Neuville and Dani Sordo, with Hayden Paddon driving a third entry from the second event in Sweden.

Having received title backing from oil giant Shell in 2014, Hyundai will wear additional branding from Hyundai Mobis, Hyundai WIA and Hyundai Steel on its i20 WRC this season. Team principal Michel Nandan says the interest across the Hyundai company is a testament to the interest its motorsport efforts have generated.

“We have had a lot of support from Hyundai around the world following our inaugural season and it is a pleasure to welcome Hyundai Mobis, Hyundai WIA and Hyundai Steel to the team for 2015.

“The appeal and business benefits of our WRC activities in 2014 became quickly apparent to Hyundai globally and these new partnerships are a result of that. We’re sure we will share a positive season together with these important companies.”

A new Hyundai i20 is preparing to go on sale shortly, with sources from the team suggesting it will be introduced in WRC guise later in the season.