RallyOne Project’s first privately built WRC27-specification car will be completed next month with a first test planned for August.
Project leader Lionel Hansen has shared details of the all-new car with DirtFish, outlining the timeline towards the car’s debut at the start of the 2027 season.
Hansen said: “The first phase of the project, focused on technical studies and vehicle design, has now been successfully completed in line with our objectives. The first tubular chassis, built for 2027 homologation, is currently in its final manufacturing phase ahead of technical validation by the FIA.
“At the same time, production of the first components for the development car is well underway, with all remaining parts due to be delivered shortly. Assembly of the first vehicle, built to the final FIA Rally1/WRC27 technical specification, will begin next month.
“The first validation tests are scheduled for August and will mark the beginning of an initial testing programme comprising at least six test sessions this year.
RallyOne Project exclusively shared renders of its 2027 challenger with DirtFish
“The priority during this phase will be to validate the reliability of every component across different surfaces before continuing with vehicle set-up and optimisation to achieve the desired level of performance.”
Providing the gravel and asphalt testing goes to plan, the team intends to have two entry cars built before the end of 2026.
The 2027 regulations stipulate a constructor like RallyOne Project must compete on 50% of the World Rally Championship rounds in its first season. Currently, Hansen’s aim is to have the cars ready for the start of the year, January’s Monte Carlo Rally.
Hansen also shed more light on the 17-strong team working with him on a project he heads up. Former Hyundai team manager Alain Penasse is responsible for the sporting management and strategy, while legendary rally car designer Jean-Claude Vaucard provides a technical overview as principal technical advisor.
Jeremy Chevallereau coordinates all technical aspects of the project, working closely with partners, suppliers and subcontractors, while Florent Biard leads the design office and the vehicle’s development, supported by the engineers, designers, draftsmen and technicians at Faster Racing. Benoît Blaise oversees workshop planning and the assembly of the first chassis.
Looking to the future, Hansen added: “Through RallyOne Project, our ambition is to showcase the full extent of our expertise in the design and development of motorsport vehicles.
“This program is also intended to help us take the next step by securing the support of a manufacturer or strategic partner, enabling us to continue our development at the highest level of world rallying.
“The next six months will be crucial to the success of RallyOne Project. Meeting a demanding development schedule will be essential to ensure the car is ready to compete at the highest level under the new FIA regulations.
“The entire team is fully committed to achieving this objective and preparing the project to make its competitive debut at the start of the 2027 season.”
As well as Faster Racing, RallyOne Project is also working with WRT Manufacturing, Marelli Motorsport, Multimatic and OMP Racing.
