This week, it was all about resourcefulness, resilience—and a little bit of stress—as the team scrambled to get Purdey ready for her contrôle technique (French roadworthiness test). With a delivery falling through at the last minute, Priscilla and Lulu were called into action, donating crucial parts like relays and switch housings. It was a true team effort—even if not everyone had a say!
With those salvaged components, the final wiring of the dashboard switch panel began. Lights flicked on, hazards flashed, and fog lights glowed—all the right signs that Purdey was coming to life. As a warm spring sun poured in, it seemed only right to dust off the camping gear (and hoover the sand out of the tent from a past rally storm!).
As the final day before the test approached, tension mounted. Fuel was topped up, switchgear double-checked, and Purdey was given her first proper off-road trial, looking resplendent against a tree-lined track. Everything seemed in order—aside from a small hiccup in the morning with a cutting-out engine—but confidence was building.
Then came the big moment: test day. With nerves in full swing and a “No Stress” sign offering little comfort, Purdey rolled into the control technique bay. After a nerve-wracking wait… she passed! 🎉
But the work wasn’t done. The team turned immediately to practical rally planning. With 10 days left before departure for the Santana Trophy, packing logistics began. From fridge positioning and water bottle stashing to rubber footwell mats and clever storage platforms, every inch of Purdey was measured, adapted, and optimized. A clear panel even made its debut as a “posh garage” touch, offering a peek at the fuel pump and chassis.
Antennas were installed for navigation, a repeater screen fitted for the co-driver, and the team solved a minor screeching noise post-test. As they said, a test certificate doesn’t mean she’s rally-ready just yet—but the list is shrinking.
With the final countdown now in single digits, this episode marks a major turning point: from building to preparing for the journey ahead.
Watch now!