News
Global TCR Balance of Performance tests underway for 2019
The process to establish the initial Balance of Performance for all global TCR categories, including TCR Australia, is in full swing.
Aerodynamic and engine testing are currently underway, with the aim to match the performance of the 12 brands and 16 different models that compete across the world.
The aerodynamic test was held at Pininfarina recently, with all 16 models undergoing tests for assessing downforce and drag.
One after the other the cars were placed in the wind tunnel and tested with a ride height of 80 millimetres and three configurations of rear wing inclination: 0°, +5° and -5°. The test of each car required approximately one hour, under the monitoring of TCR technical staff.
At Grugliasco, in the state-of-the-art rolling wind tunnel, all TCR certified cars were tested, as well as the new Hyundai Veloster N, LADA Vesta Sport and Lynk&Co 03, which is based on a Volvo.
Also, the TCR technical committee is currently undergoing engine tests at ORAL Engineering run Italy.
Each engine is placed inside the ‘test cell’ and linked to the dynamometer that will measure the power and torque curves. The engine gets wired using the very same wiring that is installed in the racing car, and connected to the data logging ECUs.
The test checks the engine maps in six different power configurations: 102.5 percent, 100 percent, 97.5 percent, 95 percent, 92.5 percent and 90 percent.
The final stage of the Balance of Performance process will be the track test for the new cars at Valencia on February 18.
While the global TCR sets an initial BoP, regional championships, including Australia, are permitted to tweak the BoP if there is a manufacturer that has a distinct advantage in on their circuits and environments.