New Technical Regulations for 2017 WRC cars

MANILA : Thirteen days of pure pleasure for the racing enthusiasts, where they see their favorite brands chasing each other on surfaces ranging from gravel and tarmac to snow and ice. This thrill and excitement is about to take a manifold hike, all thanks to the FIA World Motor Sport Council. FIA, on Friday, gave approval to exciting outline principles, that are aimed to make a high impact on the technical front of the participating monsters. These changes, clearly visible in rendered image, are among the first major changes announced by FIA after 2011.

Participating teams have two years in hand to refurbish their models, to suit these specifications provided by FIA. Thus in 2017, when these racing cars are next scheduled to meet, they will fling a more hostile and aggressive look to one another.

A quick overview of these outline principles reveals, that a greater aerodynamic kit will be provided to the participants, which would include a bigger rear wing, and larger front and rear bumper overhang that can be extended up to 60mm and 30 mm respectively. Apart from it, the cars would be wider from their previous versions as 55mm extension is now permitted.

Talking about the engine specifications, these racing-cars will continue to run on the same 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but there is a bit upgradation on the width of the turbo resistor, it can now range from 33 mm to 36 mm. This change would hike the power output to 380 bhp. Amongst these new changes, it is the electronically-controlled center differentials making a comeback with a 25kg lighter version.

Further, on these changes, FIA technical director, Bernard Niclot said, “There were three main objectives with these regulations: make the car spectacular, be mindful of costs, and maintain, if not increase safety. The cars will be striking, there is no doubt about that, and there are small but always significant improvements in relation to safety.”

These changes from the day of announcement have received a positive feedback from people ranging from tech-freak to racers, and hopefully these dynamic and dangerous cars will look equally impressive in 2017 championship.