2017 WRC concept car

Organizers of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) have given us a sneak preview of the 2017 season which will come with lots changes in an attempt to change things up.

All vehicles are bound to receive a more aggressive aerodynamic package bringing a 55 mm increase in width along with 60 mm front & 30 mm rear longer overhangs and a larger rear wing which will be able to extend up to 50 mm from the rear bumper. Electronically-controlled center differentials are set to make a comeback while the overall weight of the rally race cars will decrease by 25 kg (55 lbs).

Perhaps the most note worthy is the bump in output of the 1.6-liter turbo from 300 bhp  to 380 bhp  thanks to an increase in the turbocharger’s restrictor from 34 to 36 mm while the boost pressure is going to remain capped at a max pressure of 2.5 bar.

Regarding the upcoming regulation changes, reigning world champion Sébastien Ogier said “as a racing driver you are always looking for more performance. I think the larger wing and new aerodynamics will give the race car a bit more downforce, more handling and more speed going into the corners.”

Source: Motorsport