Munich. The new MINI Countryman World Rally Car has successfully completed its shakedown phase at Prodrive’s private proving ground in Warwickshire.
This initial part of the car’s test and development programme took place with the engineering team driving the car over four days, primarily on tarmac, but also including several kilometres on loose surfaces and Prodrive’s low grip facility. The car will now travel to Portugal for a week of testing on gravel.
“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,” said David Lapworth, Prodrive technical director.
This first test car is running with an interim body and aero package, while design of the final World Rally Car bodywork is underway.
well it seems as if the fine folks at mini have done it again! i was walking in downtown san francisco on saturday and every one was pointing at a car stopped at the light. and it was a mini countryman with an old mini attached on top! driver was smiling and waving and people were taking pictures. this seemed like a good idea nice job mini!