Photo: Supercars

Supercars to run additional straight line tests

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Supercars has confirmed that it will run additional straight line tests of the two new Gen3 models ahead of the start of the 2023 season in Newcastle next month.

Ford bosses in the USA had raised concerns over parity between the new Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Camaro on the back of Vehicle Control Aerodynamic Tests that were carried out last year – with question about the relative engine and aero performance of the two cars.

Eyebrows were then raised after the full Supercars field hit the track at Sydney Motorsport Park, with Todd Hazelwood being the only one of the Ford drivers to make it into the top ten on the times as Andre Heimgartner led the way for Brad Jones Racing.

With some Chevrolet teams questioning whether the Ford runners had shown their true hand, Supercars has confirmed that an additional VCAT test will take place in the coming weeks to finalise the specification of the two models.

“Supercars can confirm additional straight-line evaluations will be conducted next week to validate the current specifications of the new Gen3 Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang ahead of their debut in Newcastle on March 10,” Supercars CEO Shane Howard said.

“These final tests have been jointly developed between the respective Manufacturers, their Homologation Teams and Supercars, as an agreed pathway to ensure best practice finalisation of the specification of both vehicles. The results of these evaluations will help us to provide the best racing product for all our stakeholders and importantly our passionate fans.

“We have been extremely pleased with the way the teams have utilised the flexible testing regime that has been rolled out over recent weeks, with over 10,000km of shakedown and test laps completed in the Camaros and Mustangs.

“As we approach the biggest change our sport has ever undertaken, it is imperative that we continue to validate the new Supercars relative performance as parity is a cornerstone of the continued success of our Sport.

“The tests will be strictly controlled to ensure all parties are treated fairly and equitably, in a transparent and collaborative manner, consistent with the accredited Homologation process to ensure that we provide the best racing product possible.

“We take our responsibility to our fans, teams, and all stakeholders very seriously and therefore believe that this validation testing will only strengthen our process moving forward.”