The DTM does not rule out looking towards hybrid

Despite the departure of Mercedes-Championship Benz DTM, the German series will inevitably be closely scrutinized by observers, with a major change in technical regulations and the adoption of Class One rules, designed to bring the DTM and Japanese Super GT closer together.

The two categories should also be brought together on track this year, highlighting the work carried out by ITR for Germany and GTA for Japan. But the DTM promoter does not rule out looking in other directions for the future, under certain conditions however.

« Hybrid technologies or other innovative technologies when it comes to powertrains are definitely a talking point for the DTM, Explain Gerhard berger, boss of ITR, in a cross interview with Dieter Gass, boss of Audi Sport.

We are not opposed to this, but we must take one step at a time. The hybrid should have a positive effect on the performance of racing cars.

Expensive technology that will make cars much heavier and, in the worst case, slower, makes no sense. This could not be communicated credibly and would therefore not be relevant to manufacturers. »

Dieter Gass agrees with the former pilot F1 McLaren et Ferrari. “Obviously we must always remain focused on costs, but we are clearly interested in areas such as the introduction of synthetic fuels and hybrid technology. » comments the head of the competition department of the ring firm.

Dieter Gass expects surprises

2019 will also see the arrival of a private entity, R-Motorsport, operating the license Aston Martin in collaboration with HWA, while Team WRT will enter two Audi RS 5s. Despite the relative inexperience of these two teams, Dieter Gass is counting on Vincent Vosse's men to create a surprise.

“I expect Aston Martin to present itself on an equal footing, particularly because its entry will be operated by HWA, underlines Gass. They will be able to bring all their experience from all their years with Mercedes to this project.

With WRT, we work with a highly professional team that has been celebrating many successes for a long time. Now WRT wants to take the next step and reach a higher level. I think they are absolutely capable of achieving this goal and we can expect surprises here and there. »

Vincent Vosse has yet to confirm the drivers who will compete in his two cars on the DTM scene.