‘Podium’ car helps cyclists rest on their laurels

Strange as it seems, there is a downside for cyclists who achieve a podium finish during the Tour de France – and for the teams they represent.

While those who finished further back can start their recuperation immediately, aboard a luxury coach complete with comfy seats, TVs and showers, the winners can be held up for hours before getting a ride back to the hotel in one of the support vehicles.

Now we have solved the problem by bringing the comfort and convenience of the Team Sky coach to a one-off version of Ford Europe's Tourneo Custom people mover that is kitted out with a kitchenette and fridge, as well as reclining seats, power outlets and gel blankets that help riders to cool down.

Servais Knaven, sport director, Team Sky.

“Every second counts in cycling, and the smallest gains can mean the difference between winning and losing. The Tourneo Custom podium car helps riders begin their post-race recovery earlier and travel to the hotel in comfort, which puts them in prime position to hit the bike hard the next day and maintain their winning form.”

Team Sky is renowned for its “marginal gains” strategy, which involves improving lots of things in small ways to add up to an overall positive effect. Maximising recovery and taking care of every rider’s health is a key part of that strategy.

Andrew Merryweather, Ford Europe's brand experience manager.

“A key issue for a rider travelling in a support car is leg room. In the Tourneo Custom, the roomy cabin gives a rider plenty of space to stretch out, put their feet up, get hot and cold recovery food and drinks and receive medical attention if needed. The luxurious trim and carpets add to the feeling of relaxation, while the versatile interior made it easy to fit the kitchen, fridge and storage units.”

Team Sky love cycling

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