Ekström Continues Cupra ETCR Testing at Barcelona

Photo: Cupra

Mattias Ekström has continued testing the Cupra e-Racer ETCR car at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya as part of his new role as the car’s development driver.

As well as working on development of its ETCR car, Ekström explained to e-racing365 in September that his role as an ‘e-ambassador’ also includes scouting other potential opportunities for Cupra’s electric racing strategy.

He will drive the car when it starts competing, most likely in the initial ETCR races next year, and has recently. continued its test program at Barcelona.

“It felt really good, especially when reaching full power coming out of the slow curves on the circuit,” he said, when asked about his initial impressions from the test.

“I really enjoyed the first lap. The second also went well, although I began to notice that I was forcing the rear tires.

“I still need some time to get used to the sound of the engine; it’s much quieter than any other I’ve driven before, and I’m a very emotional driver.

“In addition, I have to pay close attention to energy management in each lap; that’s essential with an electric race car, almost as important as its speed.”

Ekström says the priorities in this phase of testing are to improve driveability and consistency as well as outright pace.

“I hope to be able to help the Cupra team with my experience and the feedback from the car’s steering wheel to make it faster, but at the same time more consistent and easy to drive,” he said.

“Once we begin competing with the Cupra e-Racer, we have to keep our eyes on the victory and to do that we must be well prepared.

“Winning is everything to me; it’s the same with the Cupra e-Racer as with any of the other cars I’ve competed with.

“So my dream is to win and be the champion. I want to put Cupra on the podium of global motorsport.”

Jake Kilshaw

Jake Kilshaw is a UK-based journalist. He is a graduate of Politics and International Relations.