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Motorsport

Lancia Delta Evo eRX Rally Cars From Special One Racing Destroyed In Fire

An unfortunate and terrifying fire broke out at Lydden Hill in the UK, impacting the world of rallycross and, specifically, Special One Racing. Thankfully, there have been no reports of injuries resulting from the fire. Unfortunately, the team’s Delta Evo-e RX electric rally cars, along with other items, were destroyed.

Currently, there is limited information available about the fire. A video shared on Instagram by _rallycross shows the Special One Racing trailer and cars in the paddock completely engulfed in flames. The distinctive Lancia Delta shapes of two cars can be seen among the smoke and flames. The Instagram post also mentions that the team lost all its apparel in the fire.

 

Currently, it is unknown if the race scheduled for this weekend at Lydden Hill will be delayed or canceled. The FIA and the World Rallycross Championship have released the following statement in response to the incident:

“A fire broke out in the Special ONE Racing team area at Lydden Hill this morning ahead of the FIA World Rallycross Championship event at the track. Fire crews are on-site.

The venue is not open to the public today, and no injuries have been reported. Further updates will be provided as we assess and monitor the situation.”

The Delta Evo-e RX made its debut in 2021 for the World Rallycross Championship. These cars, developed by GCK Motorsport, resemble the classic Delta Integrale but feature a new chassis with two electric motors. At launch, the cars produced 671 horsepower and 649 pound-feet of torque, utilizing all-wheel drive. The championship had planned to include 14 cars, and there were also plans announced for road-going versions.

Lancia Delta Evo-e RX with Martini livery

Special One Racing has yet to provide details on the extent of the damage to the cars and equipment, but the situation looks grim. Sebastian Loeb, a nine-time WRC champion, and veteran racer Guerlain Chicherit are the drivers for the team. Currently, they hold the 8th and 9th positions in the 2023 standings. This weekend’s event is the fifth race in a nine-race season that concludes in Hong Kong on November 12.