Seven-time World Rallycross champion Johan Kristoffersson is set to compete at the 2025 Simola Hillclimb in Knysna, South Africa, marking his first appearance at the event. Driving Volkswagen Motorsport’s electric Polo RX1e, Kristoffersson will participate in the Modified Saloon Car category from 1 to 4 May, alongside local Volkswagen drivers Jonathan Mogotsi and Daniel Rowe, who will race SupaPolo entries in the King of the Hill challenge.
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Volkswagen Motorsport confirmed Kristoffersson will pilot the same 500 kW all-wheel-drive Polo RX1e used in his 2022 and 2023 World Rallycross campaigns. The vehicle, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 1.8 seconds, will compete in a field anticipated to feature strong competition. Team engineer Cobus ‘Prof’ Barnard will also showcase Volkswagen’s heritage, driving a classic Golf Mk1 GTi during Classic Friday.
“Johan’s debut at Simola with our electric Polo highlights Volkswagen’s commitment to innovation,” said Mike Rowe, Head of Volkswagen Motorsport. “Alongside Jonathan, Daniel, and Cobus, we aim to deliver an engaging experience for fans, including exclusive merchandise and on-track action.”
In a parallel announcement, bp Southern Africa has been confirmed as a title sponsor for the Simola Hillclimb, securing a four-year partnership starting with the 2025 event. The collaboration aligns with bp’s promotion of its bp Ultimate fuel with ACTIVE Technology, marketed as enhancing engine performance under demanding conditions.
Ian Shrosbree, Managing Director of the Knysna Speed Festival, emphasised the significance of bp’s involvement: “Partnering with a globally recognised brand like bp reinforces the event’s stature. Their long-term commitment supports our vision for growth and sustainability.”
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Nokwanda Khumalo, bp Southern Africa’s General Manager for Mobility & Convenience, added: “The Hillclimb’s intensity offers an ideal platform to demonstrate how our fuels can optimise engine performance.”
Now in its 15th year, the Simola Hillclimb continues to draw crowds, with over 19,000 attendees reported in 2024. The 2025 edition will feature a mix of classic and modern vehicles, with competitors tackling the 1.9-kilometre ascent on Knysna’s winding roads.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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