Hyundai embarks on EV mission at TARGA Tasmania
Korean giant Hyundai has announced it will spearhead a push into the electric vehicle component of TARGA Tasmania next year. As part of the exciting plan, Hyundai will dip its toes in the water at the 30th anniversary TARGA Tasmania from April 26 to May 1 by entering a Genesis GV60 EV as part of the non-competitive tour section of the famed tarmac rally. The South Korean automaker will dispatch a crew of seven for what will be a reconnaissance mission ahead of entry into the newly formed EV category in 2023. In an exciting development for the TARGA brand, Hyundai is sending a group of engineers and observers who will oversee the performance of the Genesis luxury electric vehicle at TT30. Hyundai aims to evaluate the EV consumption of the Genesis and gain knowledge on the battery regeneration through the demanding and varied stages. The Genesis will be driven by top rally driver Brendan Reeves who will be supported by Mark Stacey, who gained tremendous success in gravel rallies with the late Possum Bourne, as well as experienced rally man Philip Rogers. “We are delighted that Hyundai has shown serious interest in TARGA and cannot wait to see the Genesis in action in the EV class next year,” TARGA chief executive Mark Perry said. “We are looking forward to a growing number of electric vehicles taking part in TARGA and we expect that a lot of manufacturers will want to test their machines at what is an exciting phase of TARGA’s future. “Hyundai are taking the first step and the future looks bright.” Hyundai recently reaped a bonanza with their IONIQ 5 electric vehicle which was voted overall World Car of the Year, World Electric Vehicle of the Year and World Car Design of the Year at the highly acclaimed 2022 World Car Awards. The IONIQ 5 is the first model in Hyundai’s dedicated EV line-up brand. |