Jean-Karl Vernay has joined Hyundai Motorsport’s Veloster N ETCR programme as a test and development driver, alongside Augusto Farfus.
His joining the Veloster N ETCR project as a Hyundai Motorsport Customer Racing driver comes as the development work on the programme gains pace. After it was the first car to be fitted with the final-specification ETCR-kit, Hyundai Motorsport has embarked on an extensive testing programme. The aims of this have been not only to get the best from the Hyundai Veloster N ETCR – the first electric-powered, and first rear-wheel driven design built by the company – but also to work together with the specialists representing the makers of the key components of the e-kit common to all ETCR cars. 
The addition of Vernay to the test team will allow that work to increase in pace. He will also add another important voice to the feedback for the engineers, with both his TCR and rear-wheel-drive experience giving him a wealth of knowledge to draw on. Between him and Farfus they will be able to ensure that the final specification of both the car and e-kit fulfil their massive potential for high-performance. 
Vernay is no stranger to TCR racing. Following a glittering career in junior single-seater formulae he switched to Touring Cars in 2016. After taking three wins in his first season in the TCR International Series he was crowned champion in 2017 before moving to the WTCR, where has been a regular contender for race victories.
Vernay will turn his first laps at the wheel of the Veloster N ETCR in the coming weeks.

Hyundai Motorsport Team Principal Andrea Adamo said: “Jean-Karl Vernay is the perfect fit to be a Hyundai Motorsport Customer Racing driver. His first focus with us will be working alongside Augusto Farfus on the development of the Veloster N ETCR. From the first tests in the next weeks his feedback will help our engineers, and those from the ETCR suppliers, to continue their work as everything builds towards the first competitive events. I am confident that whatever cars and roles he takes with Hyundai Motorsport Customer Racing projects we can expect excellent results.”

Vernay said: “I’m very happy to be joining the Veloster N ETCR project. When I was presented with the opportunity it was one I couldn’t miss. To work with a manufacturer is always fantastic, and Hyundai Motorsport have a long-term vision that I’m excited to be part of.”