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Homologation process begins for new TCR models
Two of TCRs newest models are undergoing the homologation process to achieve certification by the WSC Group’s Technical Department to enable entry into competition.
Continuing to grow since its debut in 2014, the burgeoning touring car ruleset was buoyed by the announcement of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Argentina’s Corolla GRS TCR, which was revealed in December of last year.
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Joining the Toyota through the homologation process is the Fiat Tipo TCR developed by Italian team Tecnodom Sport. This model made its racing debut in 2020 under temporary homologation, where Luca Rangoni finished 13th in the highly competitive TCR Europe Series.
Both models recently undertook downforce and drag testing at the noted-styling house Pininfarina’s wind tunnel in Grugliasco, Italy. Assessments included setting of the rear wing inclination in different configurations to calculate the downforce produced.
This step was followed by a Centre of Gravity test using a revolving platform at JS-PE GmbH in Rotz, Germany.
At the same time, engine testing is occurring at ORAL Engineering in Modena together with the unit being used in LADA’s new Vesta Sport TCR.
Each engine will be subjected to a dynamometer test as the unit is placed inside a ‘test cell’ with the engine maps checked in different power configurations, plus power and torque curves are measured.
These tests are conducted by the global governing organisation of TCR racing, the WSC Group. This comprehensive homologation process is undertaken by its Technical Department and set to be completed soon before Balance of Performance testing is undertaken in due course.
BoP testing is completed using one driver at a designated circuit, with former Formula 1 driver and leading touring car contender Nicola Larini holding the duties previously.
Also announced recently by the WSC Group was a rise in the price cap for a TCR model to 139.000€ ($200,000) from 137.500€ ($197,700), the first in the history of the regulations.
The next round of the Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series heads to Bathurst as part of a bumper Hi-Tec Oils Bathurst 6 Hour event during the Easter long weekend where the Turtle Wax Trans Am Series, MRF Tyres Australian Pulsar Racing Association, NSW Historic Touring Cars and NSW HQ Holdens complete the bill.
All of the action will be live, ad-break free and on demand exclusively on Stan Sport in Australia.
CLICK HERE to secure your tickets to the Hi-Tec Oils Bathurst 6 Hour.