ETCC-spec cars shed 50-kilos

The move is designed to bridge the performance gap between the ETCC-spec cars and their BTCC-spec counterparts, and was made following analysis of performance in yesterday's (Thursday) official BTCC test session at Thruxton, the scene of the championship's opening three rounds this weekend. The SEATs were only 13th and 14th fastest in testing.

BTCC Series Director Alan Gow said: "We have analysed the performance of the ETCC-spec cars, in comparison with their BTC-spec counterparts, at Donington Park, Albecete [in Spain] and now Thruxton. This analysis also takes into account the level of performance of those particular cars/teams in relation to their probable position within an ETCC grid. All the teams endorsed, and are very satisfied with, our decision."

Those that will benefit are the SEAT Sport UK team's Toledo Cupras, driven by Jason Plato and Robert Huff, the Team Sureterm Alfa Romeo 156 GTA of Carl Breeze and Mardi Gras Motorsport's unique gas-powered Honda Civic Type R, driven by John George.

Gow added: "It is also important to remind everyone that, in accordance with the BTCC's regulations, we retain the right to review and re-adjust the performance differential up to five times during the season if we see fit."