The FIA has postponed a move to electric cars in World RallyCross to allow more lead time to allow more time for teams and manufacturers to join the series for 2021.
As a result of this move, WRX cars will continue with the internal combustion engine until the end of the 2020 season with the potential for them to continue into 2021 alongside the electric cars.
Manufacturers have been given until March 29, 2019, as a deadline to confirm their commitment to the incoming electric format for the series.
“We are on the verge of an exciting new era for motorsport. Electric cars are increasingly important to all areas of mobility, and rallycross is the perfect platform to demonstrate the incredible performance capabilities of electric cars in a fun, competitive and cost-effective environment,” said Paul Bellamy, Senior Vice President, Motorsports at IMG.
“A huge amount has been accomplished in a relatively short time since the first formal meeting in June 2017. A completely new type of rallycross car has been conceived and defined, and so it is worth waiting a little longer to secure the best possible field of competitors. We believe that fans new and old will love what will be a thrilling addition to their favourite events.”
The electric format for WRX means the cars will be based on a carbon fibre monocoque chassis supplied by Oreca and will use batteries from Williams Advanced Engineering.
Under the proposed electric regulations each of the cars will be powered by two 250kW motors which manufacturers will develop. They will homologate their own bodies for the cars which are designed to accept scaled versions of B or C segment production vehicles.
Independent teams can also enter the championship, either with cars supplied by manufacturers or using their own drivetrains and bodies developed from an FIA approved based design.
Opportunities for teams to showcase their electric cars at some of the 2020 WRX events will also be made available during the 2020 season.
