At the upcoming Extreme E Hydro X Prix in Scotland, Jenson Button’s JBXE team will feature Norwegian Rallycross standout Andreas Bakkerud, who will pair up with Hedda Hosås for the next round of season 3, which takes place May 13-14.
In addition, Bakkerud will remain part of the team’s lineup for the remainder of the season, replacing former Formula 1 driver Heikki Kovalainen, who competed for the team at the season opener in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, in March. Thus, it will be the first time he competes in the series, although he has experience in Extreme E after being the championship driver.
He even had the opportunity to experience the ODYSSEY 21 during pre-season testing at Chateau de Lastours, France in 2020. “I’m very excited to be announced as a JBXE driver. From testing the car in France at the beginning to becoming the championship driver in Saudi Arabia learning all about the car and the championship, it’s great to continue to be part of this journey,” said Andreas Bakkerud.
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Bakkerud’s Experience
With a successful career as a rallycross driver, Andreas Bakkerud has accumulated titles since 2011, when he achieved back-to-back Super1600 (now Euro RX3) crowns. In 2014, he advanced to the World Championship and, after a switch to the Hoonigan Racing Division in 2016, the Norwegian scored three victories, culminating in third place overall.
Since then he has continued to excel in Rallycross. In 2018, he achieved a remarkable third place overall with six podium finishes to his credit. A year later, he fought side-by-side alongside his teammate, Timmy Hansen, for the World Rallycross title.
The pair had a close contest throughout the season, coming to a thrilling finish in Cape Town. After a dramatic clash, both drivers tied on points, although the title ended up going to Hansen.
“I am delighted and honored to welcome Andreas Bakkerud to JBXE for the next round of the season in Scotland. Andreas’ off-road racing pedigree speaks for itself, and his experience will be invaluable in our new all-Norwegian partnership alongside Hedda as we look to boost our 2023 campaign,” said Jenson Button, JBXE Team Owner.
Written by | Ronald Ortega
