The Hyundai Genuine Parts sponsored i30 diesel takes on international competition for the first time in round five of the Australian Rally Championship (ARC) to be held in Queensland later this month.

The International Rally of Queensland doubles as a round of the Asia-Pacific Rally   Championship, and attracts a new level of rivalry, with international rally teams   from the region coming to Australia to take on the local competition.

Classified as an endurance event, the 269 kilometre course will challenge teams   over the three day rally. Commencing at the ‘Coates Hire Rally Shootout’ in   Caloundra, the course will take in the picturesque Sunshine Coast hinterland and   Imbil Forests.  Team Hyundai Rallye was one of only six crews to have completed all of the competitive stages in the recent Coffs Harbour ARC endurance event, placing them in a confident position to take on the rest of the field.

The Hyundai crew believe they have the right car for the job “The i30 has shown great reliability in the events so far in the series, especially when tackling the longer courses,” driver Mick Gillett, said.  “This round gives us another chance to show the strength and durability of the car.”

There are currently no other ‘alternative fuel’ vehicles competing in the Asia-Pacific Rally Championship, making the Hyundai i30 diesel unique in the field.  Rally organisers have seized the opportunity to leverage interest in the team, inviting the car and crew to attend VIP and Media days, normally the exclusive domain of the leading national and international drivers.  

Fuel economy is another criteria sure to be closely watched during the Queensland event.  “Amazingly, the i30 used only one tank of diesel in the previous round of the ARC in South Australia. We are again anticipating fantastic fuel figures for this event.” indicated co-driver, Harvey Smith.

Feisty international competition is not the only challenge Harvey faces leading into this event.  Closer to home, wife Heather, heavily pregnant with their second child - due just a week before the start - means timing is more than usually on his mind.   “Heather doesn’t want to miss the rally and neither do I, however, we are a team and we do have a ‘Plan B’ ready which – of course - we are hoping we don’t have to use.” he quipped.

The International Rally of Queensland commences on Friday 30th July, at the Coates Hire Rally Shootout in Caloundra, before heading to the Imbil Forests on Saturday morning, 31st July.  More information can be obtained about the event by visiting www.rallyqueensland.com.au.