With the team having to build both cars from scratch, and with gravel rally versions of the car non-existent, Box has confirmed that the opening round of the 2013 East Coast Bullbars Australian Rally Championship is coming up too quickly.
“Unfortunately it’s not looking good for Canberra,” he stated. “At this exact moment both cars are still basically just shells - we have no suspension, no gearboxes – everything is being custom built.”
“And that’s kind of the problem, the cars are completely unique, so sourcing parts is slow going and that’s held us back in having them ready for Canberra.”
While examples of the 370Z are rallied in tarmac Championship’s in Europe, Box explained that setting the rear-wheel drive coupe up for Australia’s demanding gravel conditions has been far from easy.
“To give you an example even getting the wheels with the right offset has been a mission, so we’ve had to send them out to be custom made to suit our requirements,” Box continued.
“What it means is we’re really aiming now for the Forest Rally as the debut event, which gives us a bit more time and suits us as we’re a West Australian team, so our first event being our home event kind of makes sense.”
“I can’t tell you how eager I am to finish them and drive it for the first time!” Box exclaimed. “It won’t compare to anything else that is out there and that’s what makes it such an exciting project!”
Asked if he’d considered leasing a car for the opening Round to ensure he secured Championship points, Box admitted it was an option but an unlikely one at this late stage.
“If there was a car available I’d do Canberra but I don’t think it’s likely anything will come together,” he said. “To be honest I’ve been so busy on the two Nissan’s I haven’t really had time to make any enquiries.”
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