CE Dealer Team has solidified its long-term presence in the FIA World Rallycross Championship by announcing a multi-year commitment to its innovative electric racing program. With this initiative, the team aims to drive the shift towards greater sustainability in motorsport while also showcasing the thrill of electric racing.
Part of this exciting announcement includes the extension of Niclas Grönholm's contract. The talented rallycross driver, son of two-time World Rally Champion Marcus Grönholm, will continue to pilot the 680 horsepower completely electric PWR RX1e vehicle, reinforcing the team's dedication to electric motorsport.
"We reached our initial goals for the first season by winning races, finishing in the top three overall and highlighted a more diverse and sustainable motorsport world," said Jussi Pinomäki, Team Manager of CE Dealer Team. His comments reflect the achievements from their debut season, which saw the team winning bronze in both the drivers’ and teams’ championships, along with a historic moment where they claimed the first-ever female podium finish in FIA World RX history.
While celebrating these successes, Pinomäki affirmed the team's relentless pursuit of excellence. "But we are far from satisfied. We will continue to push the envelope, both on and off track. The future is electric, inclusive, and exciting – something we will continue to work hard for. And our long-term goal of challenging for the FIA World Rallycross titles have not changed."
Grönholm completed a strong 2022 season with one victory and four podium finishes, concluding the year in third place overall. He expressed his enthusiasm for the future with CE Dealer Team: "I am thrilled to get continued trust to move forward in our ground-breaking FIA World RX journey together, something that really motivates me ahead of the challenges to come."
The driver acknowledged the intense competition he will face but reiterated his commitment to achieving the team's lofty ambitions. "While we had a strong first season for the team, I’m never satisfied until we are at the very top. And that’s just what we have worked very hard for throughout the winter. The opposition will no doubt be just as tough this season, but we continue to work in earnest to achieve our goals. I can’t wait to get back behind the wheel of my PWR RX1e!"
The announcement of Grönholm's teammate is set for April 20th at 10:00 CEST, heightening anticipation for the upcoming season. As the team prepares for the 2023 season, they can count on the continued support from a robust network of independent dealers for Volvo Construction Equipment, including ASCENDUM, SMT, and Swecon.
Additionally, major industrial partners such as Engcon, SSAB, and CTEK are backing the CE Dealer Team in its mission toward a sustainable future. Volvo Construction Equipment remains the official supplier to the FIA World RX promoter, spotlighting electric construction equipment that aligns with this initiative.
The FIA World RX season is set to kick off on June 3-4 at Montalegre in Portugal. The series will consist of ten rounds across Europe, Africa, and Asia, culminating in an exciting new finale in Hong Kong on November 11-12.
