Hybrid power has been dropped from the WRC’s top-tier Rally1 cars for the 2025 WRC season, the FIA has confirmed on Friday.
The plug-in hybrid system will be dropped from Rally1 cars from next season. The decision to change the WRC’s technical regulations was approved by the FIA’s World Motor Sport Council via an electronic vote on Friday.
The FIA says ‘pausing’ the use of hybrid power allows the manufacturers ‘to reduce their overall expenditure.’
Alongside removing the plug-in hybrid unit supplied by Compact Dynamics, the car’s turbo air restrictor will be reduced from 36mm to 35mm. Further, the Rally1 cars’ minimal weight has been reduced by 80 kilograms from 1260 kilograms to 1180 kilograms. The changes are made ‘to maintain an equivalent power-to-weight ratio between the 2024 and 2025 vehicles.’
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: “The rich heritage and unique appeal of this sport, which is so dear to my heart, are invaluable, and we are committed to safeguarding its future. This development is important not only for the championship’s stakeholders to adapt to the evolving energy landscape, but also for containing costs.
“By focusing on sustainable fuel and simplifying car technology, we’re ensuring the WRC remains captivating for fans and achievable for competitors.”
FIA Chief Technical and Safety Officer Xavier Mestelan-Pinon said: “Following extensive dialogue with key stakeholders, it became clear that continuing to use the plug-in hybrid units provided under the existing supplier agreement was no longer in the best interests of the FIA World Rally Championship. We can now move forward in full confidence that the WRC becomes even better and stronger, with developments that are in line with the working perspective for the 2027 technical regulations.
“Once again, we have highlighted the championship’s ability to adapt without diluting the sporting spectacle, while responsibly embracing the challenges of our times. We are also pleased that the use of 100 per cent sustainable fuel remains a cornerstone of the championship’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact.”
Photo: FIA
