On May 26, at the main square of Cesky Krumlov, Mr. Todt personally started the first racing car and officially launched this unique motor sport event for alternative fuel vehicles. This year the rallye became a part of the FIA Alternative Energies Cup World Championship calendar, with a record-braking number of participating vehicles powered with alternative engines.

“It is really great to link a historical town with modern vehicles powered by alternative engines and with road safety themes,“ stated Jean Todt in his opening speech. His presence to the event was highlighted by words of Oldrich Vanicek: “I think that Jean Todt is exactly one of those, who might bring younger generations closer to road traffic safety. To help understand some key basic safety measures, such as wearing seat belts when going by car, or a helmet, when cycling. Such things can save thousands of lives.”

5th New Energies Rallye opening ceremony was enriched with a “Road Safety Day“ show, presenting all activities UAMK had been doing to support a higher safety level on our roads. Among others, participants having arrived at Cesky Krumlov´s main square had a chance to experience the roll-over simulator demonstration or to learn more about the future of motoring industry by exploring the alternative energy vehicles.

New Energies Rallye race cars went through the concentration leg race in three cities – Cesky Krumlov, Friestadt in Austria and Tabor. In total, there were more than 350 km of an attractive track prepared for 50 crews, of which 46 successfully completed the race.

Another sporting event having taken place in the beautiful South Bohemian town was the traditional Rallye Cesky Krumlov (May 27 – 28), organized since 1971. “The 44th Rallye event was exceptional, indeed, given the presence of FIA president Jean Todt, international participation to this eco-race, final scores, as well as general interest of public, political authorities and supporting celebrities”, UAMK president Oldrich Vanicek summarized the significance of this year´s event.