FIA Explains Inclusion of Non-Hybrid Rally1 Cars in the WRC

The FIA seeks to make the highest level of rallying more accessible to private drivers. The decision to allow Rally1 cars that exclude the standard hybrid system could reduce costs for teams, a crucial aspect in a sport where funding and resources play such an important role. Non-hybrid Rally1 cars must carry the equivalent weight of the full EV system in ballast and will not be eligible for manufacturers' championship points, a trade-off to maintain fairness in competition.

Operating without the 100kW Compact Dynamics hybrid unit, the cars will experience a reduction of about 100 horsepower. This could change the dynamics of how rally stages are run, favoring driver skill over vehicle power. At the same time, this option offers a reduction in costs for competitors and opens the doors for Rally1 cars to compete in regional rallies.

Andrew Wheatley, FIA's Road Racing Director, sees this decision as a bridge between Rally2 and Rally1. The possibility of competing in Rally1 cars without the hybrid unit creates an intermediate step, supported by manufacturers. This measure could ease the path for drivers moving up from Rally2, offering a more gradual progression to the highest level.

For the 2024 season, it has been decided to limit teams to using a maximum of three new hybrid units, compared to the previous nine. This is a measure designed to further reduce competition costs. The reliability and performance of the hybrid units have allowed this reduction, suggesting that hybrid technology has already matured in the WRC.

Perhaps one of the most significant changes for 2024 is the introduction of a new points system. This system will award championship points after the Saturday stage and a new points allocation specifically for Sunday. The goal is to add more excitement to the final day of rallies, preventing drivers from merely conserving tires for the final Power Stage. It was also announced that drivers will no longer incur a five-minute penalty for changing an engine between the pre-rally inspection and the first time control. This transition period in the WRC will be fascinating to observe, both for long-time followers and those newly interested in the world of rallying. The combination of technological innovation and adjustments in the competition structure promises to enhance competition in the World Rally Championship.