Jean-Karl Vernay inks Hyundai ETCR development role
Hyundai has announced the signing of Jean-Karl Vernay as a test and development driver for its new ETCR programme.
Vernay will work alongside Augusto Farfus on development of the Veloster N ETCR ahead of the inaugural season for the electric touring car series having also agreed a deal to become a Hyundai Motorsport Customer Racing driver.
The French driver is set to test the car for the first time in the coming weeks, and details of his racing programme will be revealed in due course.
“I’m very happy to be joining the Veloster N ETCR project as a Hyundai Motorsport Customer Racing driver,” he said. “When I was presented with the opportunity it was one I couldn’t miss.
“To work with a big manufacturer is always fantastic, and Hyundai Motorsport have a long term vision that I’m excited to be part of. I know Augusto Farfus and the engineers have already put a lot of work into the chassis and e-kit components.
“I’m looking forward to taking advantage of that, but also playing a role myself in the development of the car in the weeks and months to come so the Veloster N ETCR can be just as successful as Hyundai’s previous TCR designs.”
Hyundai Motorsport team principal Andrea Adamo was delighted to confirm the addition of Vernay to the manufacturer’s line-up.
“Jean-Karl Vernay is the perfect fit to be a Hyundai Motorsport Customer Racing driver,” he said. “He has a lot of experience, and success, in TCR racing and throughout the motorsport world. His first focus with us will be working alongside Augusto Farfus on the development of the Veloster N ETCR.
“From the first tests in the next weeks his feedback will help our engineers, and those from the ETCR suppliers, to continue their work as everything builds towards the first competitive events. However, I am confident that whatever cars and roles he takes with Hyundai Motorsport Customer Racing projects we can expect excellent results.”
