Changes in the regulations will favor Suzuki

During the last World Council meeting held yesterday, the FIA – International Automobile Federation – decided to favor car manufacturers participating in their first WRC championship by easing some key 2008 restrictions. Tajima, director of Suzuki WRT, welcomes this decision.

Instead of having to comply with the regulations regarding the number of engines, transmissions, or steering systems to use, new manufacturers will have the opportunity to request permission from the FIA to install two engines without penalty and to change other parts according to the sporting regulations.

Suzuki’s director Nobuhiro ‘Monster’ Tajima had severely criticized the current regulations, which he felt unfairly penalized new manufacturers. As the head of the youngest brand in the World Rally Championship, Tajima claimed that his team could never progress using a limited number of parts. The Japanese director was therefore satisfied with the change in rules:

« We are very, very happy because they [the FIA] have understood the problems of a new manufacturer », continues Tajima. « Of course, in a perfect world we would want even more freedom but the regulations are established and we don’t want to destroy everything. We want to follow them like any other team. But this decision is good, it will help us develop our car and gain experience. It’s very important for a new team and I’m sure other new manufacturers will find it very helpful. »

According to a statement from Suzuki (WRC)