Photo: EXCELR8

EXCELR8 confirms Hyundai engine move

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The EXCELR8 Motorsport team has confirmed that it will switch to a bespoke Hyundai-based engine for the 2022 BTCC season.

EXCELR8 announced it was to explore the feasibility of a new engine for its i30 Fastback N cars mid-way through last season, with an R&D programme being carried out alongside Swindon Powertrain.

Following on from that programme, the decision has been taken to push ahead with the new engine, which was given its track debut during two days of running at Snetterton earlier this week.

The move means EXCELR8 will not adopt the new M-Sport designed TOCA engine for 2022 and also ensures Swindon’s continued participation in the series after the conclusion of its own deal to provide the TOCA unit.

“We’re delighted to confirm that we will be running the new Hyundai engine this season following a successful R&D programme alongside Swindon Powertrain,” team boss Justina Williams said. “A huge amount of work has gone in behind the scenes in recent months to get to this stage, and to see the new engine run without issues straight out of the box is credit to everyone involved.

“The decision to push ahead with a project such as this is a major indication of our drive to reach the pinnacle of the British Touring Car Championship, and wouldn’t have been possible without the support of Hansford Sensors.

“Although Chris [Hansford] and his team have only been part of our programme for the past twelve months, we have forged strong ties through our shared desire to make a success of our programme with the Hyundai and I’m confident that we can look forwards to a strong year together in 2022.”