SVP to launch new one-make rally challenge in 2016

Independent Porsche specialists and motorsport preparation company SVP is to launch a new one-make rally cup in 2016. Forming part of the BTRDA Rally Series, the SVP 205 Cup will be comprised of Peugeot 1.6 GTi models conforming to FIA Historic specifications and will run across all eight rounds of the BTRDA series.The SVP 205 Cup was inspired by the success of SVP owner Dominic Delaney's own 205, which he recently re-acquired after selling it in the 1980s and preparing to FIA homologation number 5301. After seeing the subsequent interest that the car generated, Delaney decided to develop a one-make challenge for cars conforming to the same regulations.He held discussions with the organisers of the BTRDA Rally Series, one of the UK's most prominent and popular national championships, who agreed to integrate the cup within its established and highly-regarded structure for 2016.The detailed regulations for the series are still to be finalised but the basic structure is in place; drivers can register for the SVP 205 Cup at any point during the season. They must use a car conforming to the relevant technical regulations and FIA historic homologation (homologation No. 5301). Six scores from up to eight rallies will count towards the standings and there will be a prize package on offer.SVP is currently in the process of preparing several cars for interested parties and will provide a centralised parts and spares service at all eight rallies. It will also establish a Cup website and promote the series both within the motorsport, classic motoring and wider media.Commenting, Delaney said; "The idea for a one-make cup came about after I rediscovered my Peugeot 205 rally car. I bought it new in 1986, sold it after I blew the engine up in 1987 and bought it back again two years ago. I decided to build it to FIA Historic specification and it is great fun to drive."Numerous customers and other competitors saw the car out on events and felt that because of the relatively low cost of building one, especially compared to the competitiveness and fun of driving it, that a one-make challenge could be really popular."We thought about it for a long time and eventually, had a meeting with the BTRDA organisers, who felt it could fit nicely within their series. It makes complete sense to be involved with them, since they already have the infrastructure, eight absolutely superb events on the calendar and an exceptionally well thought-out and run series."They have provided a huge amount of help to us so far and I am really excited about the prospect of the first season of the SVP 205 Cup next year. I have no idea how many cars will actually take part but we will run the series with a long term plan, so if it is successful, we will develop it further and potentially, open it up to more vehicles."We chose to start with the 1.6 GTi model because the 1.9 came too late to fit within the FIA Historic catchment. However as time goes on, it will [rolling inclusion] and depending on demand, we might end up running two classes. But to start with, we're keeping it fairly simple - identical cars, eight forest rallies, six scores and trophies and rewards. And lots of fun."Howard Wilcock, the BTRDA Rally Series Co-ordinator said; "We were very interested in the idea of a rally challenge based on the Peugeot 205 because it is such a popular rally car. However there needs to be some structure to ensure a level playing field for the competition, which is why the SVP-supported 205 CUP is so attractive. We look forward to welcoming the SVP 205 Cup competitors and cars to the BTRDA Rally Series in 2016".Another advantage of running as part of the BTRDA series is that all eight rallies are one-day events and run on Saturdays, so that crews can generally travel to the event and go through administration processes on Friday evening, compete on Saturday and return home Saturday evening. Events also use provided route notes, so crews do not have the pressures of a pre-event recce, which again reduces time, and financial commitment.More details will become available as time goes on. For more information, contact SVP at www.specialistvehiclepreparations.com or on 01299 251152. 2016 BTRDA Rally Series, featuring SVP 205 Cup13 February, Cambrian Rally, Llandudno12 March, Malcolm Wilson Rally, Cockermouth16 April, Somerset Stages, Minehead14 May, Plains Rally, Welshpool11 June, Carlisle Stages, Kielder9 July, Nicky Grist Stages, Builth Wells3 September, Woodpecker Stages, Ludlow1 October, Trackrod Forest Stages, Pickering


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