FIA explains decision to allow non-hybrid Rally1 cars in WRC
The World Motor Sport Council approved a proposal to allow Rally1 cars to compete in WRC events without using the standard plug-in hybrid system. Instead, they will carry the weight of the full EV system in ballast and won’t be eligible for manufacturers’ championship points. This decision will reduce the horsepower of Rally1 cars by approximately 100 compared to hybrid-powered ones, but it will also lower costs for competitors and open opportunities for Rally1 cars to participate in regional rallies. The FIA road sport director believes this step will bridge the gap between Rally2 and Rally1 and has received support from manufacturers. Other changes ratified for the 2024 WRC season include restricting teams to using a maximum of three new hybrid units to reduce costs and the introduction of a new points system that allocates points specifically for Sunday’s performance. Additionally, penalties for changing engines before the start of the rally have been eliminated.
