Skoda introduces 2011 rally car and driver at Autosport Show

Andreas Mikkelsen, glamorously assisted by television presenter Zöe Salmon, unveiled the Skoda UK Motorsport Fabia S2000 that he’ll drive in this year’s Intercontinental Rally Challenge at the Autosport International Show on Thursday 13 January – and then flew to the south of France for the Rallye Monte Carlo recce, the last step in preparation for the 100th anniversary running of this iconic event.

The unveiling took place on the Skoda UK stand at the NEC where the full-spec Super 2000 rally car was on display throughout the show.

The new 2011 colour scheme reflects Skoda UK Motorsport’s close association with Skoda Motorsport, but remains loyal to the Milton Keynes-based operation by carrying a distinctive Union Jack on the bonnet and roof.

Andreas will make his competition debut in the car on the Rallye Monte Carlo, which starts in Valence next Wednesday (19 January).

It’s been a hectic schedule for the driver and team, but Skoda UK Motorsport was determined to support British motorsport by not only being present at the Autosport International Show, but having its biggest ever stand there too – over twice the size it was in 2010.

In addition to the Fabia S2000, two Fabia vRS models, reflecting the brand’s now-famous ‘Made of Meaner Stuff’ campaign and a 1958 single seater Skoda Spider racing car celebrating Skoda’s 110th anniversary in motorsport, were also on display.