2019 World Time Attack Challenge preview

Hyundai Australia has confirmed its entry into this year’s World Time Attack Challenge, making it the first vehicle manufacturer to enter the competition.

Its weapon of choice is an uprated i30 Fastback N that could help the brand launch an even quicker production version in the future.

Set to compete in the Clubsprint class for lightly modified road cars, the prototype will be equipped with a number of development performance parts that are being evaluated for production use.

The fettled i30 Fastback N is one of numerous attractions at this year’s WTA, joined by Toyota’s new Supra driven by the car-maker’s ‘Drift King’, some familiar Supercars pilots and Brabham’s record-breaking BT62.

It’s not the first time Hyundai has teased plans for a beefier i30 N, with the car-maker planning a Mercedes-AMG A 45 rivalling machine.

Built in Korea by Hyundai’s High Performance Team, the car will remain relatively stock – aside from a more powerful engine, bespoke ECU tune and a new (louder) exhaust system.

That engine gets a bigger turbocharger and intercooler, producing more power than the i30 N’s 202kW stocker. And, while Hyundai hasn’t revealed total power figures on its WTAC car, it has confirmed the engine is under consideration for future models.

It’ll also feature bits from the i30 N Project C, including a carbon fibre bonnet, OZ Racing forged alloy wheels and an Alcantara steering wheel.

On the outside, the WTAC i30 gets a custom aerodynamics package with a bespoke front splitter and large adjustable rear wing – offering 250kg of downforce up front and 450kg at the rear.

Behind the wheel will be Hyundai Australia’s Product Planning and Development specialist, Tim Rodgers, as the Clubsprint class doesn’t allow professional racing drivers. And, over in the paddock, a special display of the brand’s RM16 Concept car will be on show.

It’ll be the first time the 2.0-litre mid-engine prototype hits on Aussie soil after it was first unveiled back in 2016 at the Busan International motor show.

Also set to appear at the 2019 World Time Attack Challenge, is Japan’s “Drift King”, Keiichi Tsuchiya.

The Japanese drifter will be on hand to show off the new drifting capabilities of the all-new GR Toyota Supra, alongside Australian Drift champion Beau Yates.

A couple of drifters from China will make their first Australian debut at the International Drifting Cup – also held at the event. Jerry Zhu and Chen ‘Ken’ Wenqian will drive a 1000HP Nissan S15 Silvia and a supercharged 6.2-litre Toyota 86, respectively.

A carbon-fibre R34 GT-R Nissan Skyline built by Croydon Racing Developments will also make its track debut in the GCG Open Class with Drew Hall at the helm.

Supercars driver Andre Heimgartner will also make his first appearance at a World Time Attack event, driving the ‘Hammerhead S13’ for a Queensland-based team MCA Suspension. But, he won’t be the only Supercars driver there. Earlier in the year, the same team confirmed Shane Van Gisbergen will return to pilot a VK56-powered Nissan 370Z drift car in the International Drifting Cup.

If that’s not enough, the Brabham BT62 hypercar will also take to the track at this year’s WTAC. The 5.4-litre V8-powered BT62 currently holds lap records at Bathurst, Philip Island and The Bend Motorsport Park.

The 2019 World Time Attack Challenge will be held at Sydney Motorsport Park on October 18-19.