A group of students from the Cologne University of Applied Science in Germany are preparing a race contender based on the 305HP Focus RS supplied by Ford for this year's 24-hour race at the Nürburgring circuit on May 15 - 16.
The students will enter the race-prepped Focus RS under the name "Team FH Köln Motorsport". It will be driven by a team of four drivers, which will be announced closer to the event.
With the help of graduate engineer Professor Frank Herman, the 20 students participating in the project have upgraded Ford's hot hatch with all the required safety features like the roll cage, 6-point safety belt, fire extinguisher and racing Recaro bucket seat.
They are also handling the installation of the KW race suspension, the Bastuck catalyst and exhaust system, the TRW race braking system, a safety fuel tank and the hydraulic on-board car jack for quick pit stops.
"Through this co-operation, Ford is broadening further its engagement with academic institutions to support the education of young engineers, some of whom may go on to work with Ford," the company said in a statement.
