P1racenews AI automatic summary:
How WRC Rally1 teams embraced the return of the snorkel
The recent FIA regulation change has allowed Rally1 teams to install snorkels on their cars for the first time, coinciding with the Safari Rally moving to a rainy season date in March in Kenya. Snorkels have long been iconic in the WRC, especially during the Safari Rally events of the past. These protruding intakes are crucial for navigating the challenging terrains of the WRC calendar, particularly in the Safari Rally with its fesh-fesh sand and water splashes. Toyota, Hyundai, and M-Sport-Ford have added snorkels to their vehicles for the upcoming Safari Rally. The snorkel’s purpose is to provide an auxiliary air intake to ensure clean air reaches the engine, preventing damage or loss of performance. The co-driver operates the snorkel system, diverting air from the standard intake during treacherous conditions like water splashes or deep sand. This electronically controlled system is activated to protect the engine from potential damage during extreme conditions in the rally.
