Proton has formally unveiled the S70 R3 that might be competing at this 12 months’s Sepang 1000KM (S1K) endurance race set to happen on November 22-24. This comes after the carmaker first teased the race automotive in Might, which was when adopted by a growth video shared on its social media channels earlier this month.
Pictured right here earlier than its racing livery has been utilized, the S70 R3 will look so as to add to Proton’s file variety of producer wins on the occasion, which at present stands at six. As a staff, Proton R3 has secured 5 wins, together with in 2012, 2014, 2017, 2018 and 2019.
The S70 R3 joins a protracted line of Proton fashions developed for motorsports, together with these earlier than the formation of the R3 division in 2003. These embrace the unique Saga, Wira, Satria, Waja, Satria Neo, Preve, Suprima S, Iriz in addition to the present model of the Saga.
Although the corporate didn’t present specs, it’s understood that the S70 R3 received’t be utilizing the 1.5 litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine discovered within the highway automotive. As an alternative, it will likely be powered by the confirmed S4PH 1.6 litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder CamPro unit that was additionally utilized in racing variations of the Satria Neo, Preve, Suprima S, Iriz and Saga. The S4PH reportedly sends 200 hp to the entrance wheels by means of a canine field guide transmission.
In line with Proton, the S70 R3 was co-developed with Geely, and the images reveal some notable variations from the idea we noticed in Might. For starters, the physique equipment is now restricted to a bigger entrance splitter and the aspect skirts have been eliminated, though the rear wing seems to be related. There’s additionally a beefier racing braking system, extra damaging camber on the entrance and built-in pneumatic jacks.
As for the inside, it has been stripped out and put in with racing necessities like a Motec digital sprint show, a Recaro seat, a rollcage, an AP Racing pedal field in addition to an ATL racing gasoline cell with quick-fill functionality. These modifications, together with others, permits the S70 R3 to satisfy M Manufacturing (MTC) class laws, which is relevant not only for the S1K, but additionally the Malaysian Championship Sequence (MCS).
“Having not competed within the final three Sepang 1000KM races, Proton is worked up to be again on the beginning grid in 2024. The Proton S70 R3 marks a brand new milestone for the model as we take a mannequin developed along with Geely into the warmth of competitors for the very first time. A variety of challenges needed to be overcome to get so far with quite a lot of modifications made to the usual automotive to make sure it met the laws set, however because of our devoted staff at R3, we’ve managed to satisfy our purpose of being prepared for the race in November,” mentioned Roslan Abdullah, Proton’s deputy CEO.
“Regardless of being a brand new automotive, Proton is taking the problem to subject two models of the S70 R3 within the race as an alternative of utilizing a confirmed older mannequin as a backup. We’re decided to show the skills of the most recent Proton sedan mannequin within the racetrack and whereas we count on competitors from groups who’ve actively competed the final three years, it’s our perception the teachings learnt in racing will translate to us constructing higher vehicles for our prospects sooner or later,” he added.
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