Q&A: Petr Kohoutek - Skoda.

Before the start of the 2003 WRC season, Petr Kohoutek - Director of Motorsport of Skoda Auto - talks about how the brand is preparing for the upcoming seasons, how the Octavia WRC will be developed and a lot more...

Q:
Petr [Kohoutek]. What are the future plans of Skoda Auto in the World Rally Championship?

Petr Kohoutek:
We are staying in the World Championship for at least another three years - this is a minimum - so we are totally committed to success. Together with Skoda Auto and Volkswagen Group board of directors we have put a strategic plan in place to achieve out objectives, which we believe are realistic aims. Initially, we want to become regular points scorers - which is something we will be working at this year. Then we would like to make regular appearances on the podium. Ultimately, we want to be challenging for wins and the championship.

Q:
How will the Octavia WRC be developed throughout the 2003 season?

PK:
We aim to bring the car closer to the minimum weight limit of 1230 kilograms. We're also looking to improve the weight distribution and balance of the car. We'll continue to work on the suspension geometry, and also try to get more power and driveability out of the engine. These are our basic aims, but of course we will be tuning the cars further to match each of our driver's individual requirements. There's so much competition in World Rallying that you can never stand still. If you do, you only go backwards.

Q:
Will Skoda be entering a third works car on any rallies this year?

PK:
It's possible. There is nothing yet firmly decided, but we have the option of entering a third car on rallies where it will be of the most benefit to the team. We will also consider the possibility of entering other rallies to gain experience, including rallies on the Czech championship, for example.

Q:
How important is rallying to Skoda's success in the commercial marketplace?

PK:
Very. We're committed to our rally programme as it enhances the reputation of our cars as being strong, reliable and emotional.