DTM goes electric in 2023

The GT3 in transition before a completely electric series? This is what the DTM. On Friday, Gerhard Berger presented with great fanfare at Hockenheim the details of the 2021 DTM which includes GT3s for the first time.

The formula will cause the series to lose a large part of its specificities since it was until now the only one, with the Super GT, to use Class One cars with highly developed aerodynamics.

But this return to the ranks could prove to be brief. Like the WTCR which will be accompanied by a 100% electric competition in 2021 with the Pure ETCR, the DTM plans to switch to electricity in 2023 in partnership with Schaeffler.

The automotive spare parts specialist is already heavily involved in Formula E, notably with Audi and in the future hydrogen Hyraze League series. His presence is therefore not a surprise, even if this time he is the main developer of the project.

A first prototype was presented on Friday, during the conference given by ITR on the sidelines of the 2020 DTM final at Hockenheim. It will take a lap this weekend in the hands of Formula E driver Daniel Abt as well as ex-DTM champions Hans Joachim Stuck and Timo Scheider.

The car will be developed throughout next year with the aim of reaching a power output equivalent to 1000 horsepower. Its competitive debut should therefore take place in 2023, first with an independent series included in the future DTM platform which will also include the DTM Trophy reserved for young people, the DTM classic and the DTM Esports.

The project provides for thirty-minute races with a pit stop to recharge the battery. “ Our goal is not only to demonstrate the effectiveness of the latest technologies, but also to bring important innovations to the circuits that will contribute to spectacular races. » commented Gerhard Berger.

The boss of ITR and Schaeffler are not closing the door on hydrogen “ even if it is too early at the moment » concludes Berger.