MINI Countryman steps closer to WRC competition
Prodrive completes shakedown phase of testing before week-long trial on dirt in PortugalMINI's plans to compete in the World Rally Championship (WRC) have edged one step closer to reality this week with its new Countryman model completing the shakedown phase of testing at Prodrive's private proving ground in Warwickshire, UK.
A crucial part of the car's test and development programme, the testing is conducted primarily on tarmac, but also includes several kilometres of loose surface driving, the team putting the Countryman through its paces over a four-day period at Prodrive's low grip facility.
"As with any totally new car, it is vital to take time to ensure all the systems are working as intended before embarking on a week-long gravel test," explained Prodrive's technical director, David Lapworth.
The first car (pictured) is running with an interim body and aerodynamics package with the final design still a well-guarded secret.
MINI will enter the WRC in select events from next year in the S2000 category before embarking on a fully-fledged commitment to winning the event in 2012. The WRC MINI Countryman is powered by a specially tuned 1.6-litre turbocharged engine from BMW Motorsport.
This week, the WRC Countryman will travel to Portugal for a week of testing on gravel.
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