Ute series overhaul set to add serious grunt
UTE racing will be overhauled by the time the Gold Coast 600 returns in 2018, when up to nine manufacturers will line up on the grid.
Now owned by Supercars, the action-packed series will next year move into a new era under the SuperUtes banner – replacing the traditional V8 tag. Mazda (BT-50), Mitsubishi (Triton), Toyota (Hilux) and Isuzu (D-Max) are all set to compete against historic rivals Holden and Ford, who will run with Colorado and Ranger models respectively.
Supercars managing director Matt Braid said it’s an exciting prospect.
Braid expects 16 to 18 cars to be on the grid for the 2018 season-opener at Adelaide, with potentially more by the time the series heads to the Coast.
The SuperUtes concept is designed to keep the series relevant with the popular models being sold now as well as keeping costs for competitors affordable.
The 2018 turbo diesels are also tipped to deliver more aggressive racing for fans.
“The engines are very high on torque compared to the V8 utes that are running now,” Braid said.
Yesterday, Ryal Harris’ hopes of a fourth V8 Utes championship received a significant boost as he won a chaotic race. The Gold Coaster passed Mason Barbera and then title rival Kim Jane to take the win – his eighth at his home event.
Jane finished 11th after being spun by Barbera and now trails Harris by 29 points heading into the finale at Newcastle. The race finished under safety car conditions.