For several years, Hyundai Motor has participated in numerous automobile competitions all over the world. Having accumulated several successes in the Word Rally Championship (WRC), the manufacturer is also trying to diversify its victories by getting involved in several events in North America. Through its Hyundai Motor America (HMA) division, the company succeeded in doing well in the future.
Michelin Pilot Challenge of the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA). After 6 consecutive years finishing in 2e position, the manufacturer’s Canadian driver team, made up of Robert Wickens paraplegic professional pilot, and Harry Gottsacker, won their first drivers’ championship. This victory adds to a triumphant series for Hyundai which can clearly declare having had a good season in motor racing.
A near-perfect race for Hyundai
Hyundai Motor America is finishing its 2023 racing season with several podium finishes under its belt. The company won the IMPC Manufacturers, Drivers and Team Championships at Road Atlanta as well as the TC America Manufacturers and Teams Championship. The last journey of the year ended almost perfectly for Hyundai.
Indeed, the car wearing No. 98, headed by Mason Filipp, quickly took the lead in the IMSA event. Closely followed by the Audi of Chris Miller and Mikey Taylor, Mason Filipp managed to maintain the leading position. As Chris Miller suffered mechanical problems at the end of the first lap, the Hyundai cars were able to maintain their lead throughout the race without any real trouble.
The 2023 championship therefore came down to a test between the Hyundai Elantra N TCR Nos. 98, 33, 91 and the Honda Civic of Ryan Eversley and Mike LaMarra. Dominant on the circuit, the Hyundai N TCRs remained at the front of the peloton during the 2 hours of the race. The No. 98 Elantra N TCR and the No. 91 Hyundai Elantra N TCR of Van der Steur Racing finally retained 1D and the 2e place on the podium at the end of the competition, closely followed by the Honda Civic of Ryan Eversley.
A first championship for the No. 33 Elantra N TCR
The No. 33 duo of Robert Wickens and Harry Gottsacker were in a good position to finish on the podium this year. The troop of Canadian drivers needed to finish in the top 8 to secure a cumulative victory; they performed well throughout the season.
Tearing off the 4e position during the final event, the collective was able to celebrate its first triumph with 60 points ahead of its teammates in the No. 98. An emotional victory for Canadian driver Robert Wickens who has now been paralyzed from the waist down since a serious accident in IndyCar five years ago.
“This year I felt like I was just a more seasoned professional and I think the results speak to that,” said Robert Wickens. “Harry and I barely made a wheel mistake all year,” he continued, “and when we did, we put our heads down and corrected our mistakes. This is what allowed us to claim the championship and which made the difference. »
Robert Wickens uses a paralyzed driver’s hand control system to drive the Elantra N TCR. The professional added that “it’s very rewarding and the culmination of a lot of hard work.” He also takes the time to thank the manufacturer who supported him throughout his journey.
Hyundai is therefore finishing the 2023 racing season with great success after winning the IMPC Manufacturers, Drivers and Team Championships at Road Atlanta as well as the TC America Manufacturers and Teams Championship.
