Suzuki team boss Nobuhiro Tajima has admitted that while there is still a long way to go for his team, he is still hopeful they can get points this weekend in Jordan.
The Paris-based squad has managed to score driver or manufacturer points on three out of the four rallies held so far this year and while the reliability of the new SX4 WRC car has been somewhat undesirable, the team maintains it is making 'regular and steady improvements'.
Indeed for the latest round in the World Rally Championship, in order to cope with the specific demands of the event, there are 'a number of evolutions' to the SX4 WRC designed to 'enhance the performance and reliability'.
"The engine control system has been modified to put the accent on reliability, whilst the underbody cladding and sump guard have been reinforced in order to counteract some of the rougher conditions," explained a statement from the squad ahead of the inaugural trip to Jordan. "In view of the extremely high temperatures forecast the cooling system has been overhauled, while damper adjustments have improved the road-holding."
Tajima also reckons that the fact the event is new might just work to
Suzuki's advantage.
"It is an event where we have no real idea of what to expect, but like my drivers I am hopeful that we can use this situation to our advantage," he confirmed.
"Of course, there is still a lot to learn and a long way for us to go, so our realistic objectives need to be modest.
"Nonetheless, I would like to fix the objective of continuing our rate of improvement and scoring points with both cars if possible. If we can achieve that after such a tough rally, then I will be very happy!"
Asked about the difficulties experienced this season, he was philosophical about the situation.
"The path to success is rarely a smooth one," he added.
"It is precisely because the World Rally Championship is so difficult that it holds so much attraction for us.
"Every time we compete we have to overcome new and bigger challenges, and the Jordan Rally is the latest in a long line of them."
