BTCC – The Revolution will be Televised

NGTC Toyota Avensis Demonstrator


This year is an important one for the British Touring Car Championship, 2011 ushers in the biggest set of rule changes since the series switched over to a 2 litre formula at the end of the Sierra Cosworth era. In a move that shadows the FIAs World Engine initiative BTCC is switching to 2l turbo charged engines. There are dispensations to allow the current Super 2000 based cars to continue for another 2 years but with increasing penalties. The Next Generation Touring Car rules have been introduced by TOCA to reduce the cost of entering the series and ensure it’s long term future. The rules cover engine, drivetrain, suspension and electronics the aim being that a kit of parts can be fitted to any qualifying body shell.

All the signs are good with a record entry for the current season (the highest since the early 90s heyday) with several new models of car appearing, if the on track action lives up to 2010 then 2011 should be a vintage year. You didn’t have to be an expert in body language to realise how disappointed Matt Neal was to concede the championship to Jason Plato, expect the two veterans to be at the front this year. Plato is back with Silverline Chevrolet and the Cruze should be very strong. Ford have chosen the BTCC to show their new Global Focus touring car platform and in the hands of Tom Chilton it should be a contender.

2010 BTCC Champ - Jason Plato


The season gets underway this weekend at Brands Hatch on the Indy circuit. While no one driver will be able to deliver a knockout blow at the 1st race weekend. By Sunday evening we should have a better understanding of how the early part of the season will pan out. TOCAs Alan Gow is sure to keep an eye on things and tweak the regulations as he sees fit to keep the racing on a knife edge. The same strong supporting package is back as well with the new 3.8 litre Porsche Carrera Cup car and the new Ginetta GT car making their debuts. Add in Nicholas Hamilton the brother of a Formula One champion Lewis in the Renault Clio Cup and you have a very interesting weekend.

The revolution starts on Saturday 2nd April 2011.

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