He announced that it would eliminate hybrid units from Rally1 cars during the 2025 season, as already reported. the 130 kW system first introduced in 2022 alongside the current generation of vehiclesbut they chose to suspend it due to rising costs, a decision which was ratified by the FIA World Automobile Council after an electronic vote, and will allow participants to have an internal combustion engine.
The cost of hybrid powertrains has increased since the controls supplier, Compact dynamicshas introduced new safety regulations at the Acropolis Rally in Greece. The company stipulated that all components had to be disassembled and sent to its factory for a complete repair if they suffered three impacts of force greater than 15G, or one of more than 25G, whereas previously everything could be readjusted in the same test.
M-Sportthe only non-factory team in the top category, expressed its Concerns about the feasibility of running the Rally1 program after modificationsand the matter was debated between all interested parties, before a final decision was made at Rally Japan. In a press release, the technical and security director of the international federation, Xavier Mestelan-Pinonsaid the units currently supplied “are no longer the best for the WRC”.
“Following extensive dialogue with key stakeholders, it became clear that continuing to use the plug-in hybrid units provided under the existing supplier agreement was no longer in the best interests of the FIA WRC,” the statement said. press release. “We can now move forward with full confidence that the WRC will be even better and stronger, with developments in line with the working outlook of the 2027 technical regulations.”
“Once again, we have underlined the championship's ability to adapt without diluting the sporting spectacle, while responsibly meeting the challenges of our time,” he continued. “We are also pleased that the use of 100% sustainable fuel remains a cornerstone of the championship’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact.”
To maintain the same power-to-weight ratio as in 2024, the minimum weight of Rally1 will be reduced from 1,260 to 1,180 kilogramsand the size of the air flange will be reduced from 36 to 35 mm, so that everything will be equivalent in the 2025 season. The FIA also highlighted the example of. with its non-hybrid Ford Puma at Rally Poland as proof of concept for current cars without additional electric power.
Do you want to read our news before everyone else and for free? Follow us here on our Telegram channel and you will not lack anything. All the information, at your fingertips!
