2007 regulations revealed

Cars running to the same spec as the World Touring Car Championship have been permitted in the series for three years now, but from next year only these types of car will be able to win the outright championship.

Since 2001 the series has run to BTC-spec regulations. These cars will still be allowed in the championship, and will be eligible for the Independent's titles.

Several decisions for the 2007 rules were reached at a team's meeting last week, including adding 30kg to the S2000 cars to bring them in line with the WTCC.

BTC-spec cars will have the same increase to keep performance similar, but any of these cars that perform especially well may be subject to extra weight penalties.

BTCC Series Director Alan Gow said: "I'm very pleased with the teams' positive attitude in reaching a swift consensus on these important measures as the BTCC opens a new and exciting chapter in its history."

Gow also praised the bigger teams in the championship for agreeing that only the highest-placed car in privateer teams will score points for the Independent's team's title.

"This will prevent the bigger, better funded multi-car outfits enjoying a lockout and gives a greater spread of the prize fund to the other teams and drivers," he said.

"The bigger teams should be thanked for agreeing to this - they have seen the bigger picture."

Silverstone hosts the championship-deciding BTCC finale on October 15, and circuit bosses have reported a significant increase in demand for tickets since championship leader Matt Neal crashed out of race three at Brands Hatch.