2022 is set to see the Nurburgring Long Distance Series, aka VLN, apt two new classes, one for hybrid and one for electric vehicles.
As a demonstration of the potential of the new classes, Sorg Rennsport completed a test with a specially developed racing version of the BMW i8 yesterday before the season finale.
Björn Simon, the regular team driver, drove the first laps. In the evening he was replaced by VLN technology boss Volker Strycek, who got an impression of the hybrid racing car.
“We live in exciting times and are really looking forward to setting the course for the future of motorsport in the Nürburgring endurance series,” says Strycek. “Hybrid and electric vehicles are by no means the only alternative to fossil internal combustion engines. However, the ADAC Opel e-Rally Cup has already proven beyond paved racetracks that thrilling motorsport is possible with electric vehicles. Now we are also using this track in the NLS and are therefore the first circuit racing series that combines different concepts in sporting competition. ”
Strycek was immediately enthusiastic about the BMW i8: “You have to adapt your driving style a bit, but once you get used to it, driving the car on the Nordschleife is really fun. A big compliment to Sorg Rennsport, who have the courage to tackle such a project and have put together a car that works right away. We drove ten laps of the extended roll-out without any problems. That was a look into the future. And I look forward.”
