An automated Performance Balance in GTE Pro in 2017

The subject of a good number of discussions since its establishment, the Performance Balance applied in WEC in GTE Pro will see its mode of operation evolve this season. An automated system will appear, using encrypted data to modify the balance between Ferrari, Porsche et Aston Martin engaged in the category.

“Without human interpretation or decision-making, a newly created calculation tool will achieve the best balance between the different cars, using mathematical formulas based on the measurement of quantified, public and specific data, collected during each of the races. » specifies the ACO press release.

The terms of application of this new system specify in particular that “the differences between the different car models will be automatically compensated from one race to the next. » This could involve increasing the performance of a car, or reducing that of another model.

Mass and power can be adjusted, within a window which can reach a maximum of 20 kg and 10 KW per stroke, applicable in addition or less.

For this purpose, “only the best car (the one having displayed the best level of performance) of each car model will be taken into consideration”, and on this 60% of the distance covered (the best laps) in order to take into account the best performance of the car as well as its efficiency with worn tires.

Specific eligibility criteria for cars for adjustment will be put in place, in particular to avoid the sometimes observed game of hiding performance. “The system also provides rules determining whether each car is eligible to receive an adjustment. If: a car did not cover sufficient distance / A car was excessively slow / The weather conditions were special, then no adjustment will be applied. »

A first BoP has already been put in place for Silverstone and Spa, and will be adjusted for the Nürburgring, knowing that the 24 Hours of Le Mans will be taken into account separately. Only the GTE Pro category will be affected, with the GTE Am retaining the 2016 BoP model.

Discover our 2017 WEC Guide, in issue 2108 of AUTOhebdo, available now in digital version, and on newsstands tomorrow.