Electric WRX deferred to 2021
The World Rallycross Championship’s planned switch to electric cars has been postponed until 2021.
World RX had intended to make the transition to electrically powered, four-wheel-drive, twin (250kw)motor cars from the end of next season, but the delay is “to allow optimal time for all manufacturers investigating the possibility of competing to develop their plans,” said a WRX statement.
The move to electric WRX is a concept proposed by manufacturers to showcase electric cars, with plans having been formed between a group of car makers, the FIA and WRX promotor IMG. But while the sign-up deadline for the 2020 season had been August 15, marques will now have until March 29 next year to file intention to compete in ’21.
It’s understood that nine manufacturers have been involved in the electric rallycross Technical Working Group discussions, with Peugeot, Audi, Volkswagen, Ford and BMW (through driver Timo Scheider) connected with potential participation. Of those, current works WRX team Peugeot has been most vocal, but no marque has yet officially announced intention to participate in the series.
“A huge amount has been accomplished in a relatively short time since the first formal meeting in June 2017,” said IMG boss Paul Bellamy. “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.”
As revealed by Autosport earlier this year, the electric cars will use a single-make carbon-monocoque chassis with double-wishbone suspension. Following a tender process, that chassis will be developed and supplied by ORECA, while Williams Advanced Engineering will supply the batteries. Manufacturers will develop their own powertrains and body kits.
The current two-litre turbocharged Supercars will continue to run as the headline class for the next two years, while the series has revealed that the electric cars will be showcased during events in 2020.