Hayden Paddon is excited about plans revealed last week for the next generation World Rally Car technical regulations.
Among the changes approved in principle at an FIA World Motor Sport Council meeting in Mexico last week are increased body dimensions which could allow manufacturers to widen wheel arches and increase overhangs or perhaps move to slightly larger cars.
It’s expected the changes will come into force from the 2017 season. The current rules for the 1.6-litre direct injection turbo WRC machinery came into force in 2011.
Engines will remain at 1.6-litre displacement but a larger air restrictor (up from 33mm to 36mm) will bring an increase from the current 300-horsepower to about 380-horsepower.
Larger rear wings will be allowed and it’s expected that electronic control of centre differentials will return. A small reduction in weight – mooted to be 25kg – is also on the cards.
``They talking bigger cars, bigger wings for more aero and also lighter. It’s a driver’s dream when you’re talking more power and the car going faster,’’ said Paddon.
``I think it will make it more spectacular for the spectators and having a bit more technology in the cars is good for the manufacturers because the sport needs to be helping road cars to evolve.
``And from a driver’s point of view they should be a bit more fun to drive as well.’’