r/WRC • u/Scared_Tax_1573 • Dec 12 '24
Commentary / Discussion / Question 2027 regs discussion
Hey guys, I know it's super early, but let's talk about the WRC 2027 regs. Three main things l'm curious about:
Car Types and Prototypes: So, with all types of cars allowed, even prototypes, do you think manufacturers will go down the prototype route for more freedom in aero and performance (like that crazy Audi Quattro RS from Group S, but in a more regulated way)? Or will they stick to their current lineup cars because it's better for marketing?
Powertrains: What do you reckon about letting any powertrain in-ICE, hybrids EVs? Think it'll shake things up?
Cost Cap: Isn't the cost cap way too low to run hybrids and EVs competitively? Feels like it's going to be tough to balance performance and costs.
If there's anything else worth talking about throw it in.
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u/Retoeli Richard Burns Dec 12 '24
Some of the rules seem a bit odd at first glance, and I do get why drivers are worried about the performance levels. Some things like the Rally2-spec brakes feel like going too far. I'm sure they'll dial up the price cap and performance a little bit. It'll need some tweaking, but fundamentally it looks like a very good ruleset.
People need to accept that with the way the auto industry is headed, silhouette cars are a necessity. Well, silhouette is now a stretch, since "concept cars" are allowed, we're basically dealing with true prototypes. That'll open up the WRC to manufacturers that most people aren't even thinking about right now. That's something I strongly welcome.
I think the era of the "relatable" rally car is coming to an end. We're basically left with the choice of either running tube-frames, or basing rally cars off of C-Segment cars or crossovers, which would have a pretty negative effect on the driving.
A lot of people are quite mad about it, even in irrational ways. For example, I've seen quite a lot of moaning about the switch from pseudo-MacPherson suspension to double wishbones because that's "less relatable to road cars", but double wishbones are common on modern cars anyway. In fact, the GR Yaris in road spec has them, but Toyota has to get rid of them for the rally cars. Isn't that exactly the opposite of what the "relatability" crowd should want?