MASSIVE RESHUFFLE FOR BNT V8S

While there have been plenty of questions surrounding the future of the BNT V8s category for some time, they have now all been answered. The new format is set to welcome one and all onto the grid this season as long as the vehicle is powered by a naturally aspirated V8 and has a bodyshell that is post 2000. Both coupe and saloon body styles are eligible, with SuperTourer, TLX, Mitchell Xtreme, TTV8-TA2e, BMW Open V8s, and Howe GTs all listed, although anything that meets the very loose rules can front up — with the exception of GT-type sports cars.

It’s an open book for such things as gearbox, suspension, chassis, brakes, and aero, so potentially we could see some very fast local ‘hot rods’ enter the mix. One of the only other restrictions is a maximum of four new tyres per round.

The race format will see an hour-long race on Sundays, with a compulsory pit stop where balance of power time penalties will be served, which should level the playing field.

The shift is aimed at getting more cars out of sheds and onto the grid, with a real focus on fun as stated in the category’s release.

“We experimented with adding some additional specification V8 cars to the grid in the past couple of seasons, and it has worked well and provided some great racing. The feedback from car owners and competitors is that they want to get out there and race, and for their racing to give them more enjoyment.” The season kicks off in December, so it will be interesting to see how the new format caters for racers and fans alike.