World Rally Championship teams have shared their opinions on a potential last-minute decision to eliminate hybrid power from Rally1 cars for the upcoming season.
There is a strong possibility that the FIA may choose to remove hybrid power from the top-flight class of the WRC due to changes in the hybrid unit user guide from control supplier Compact Dynamics.
This development is part of the ongoing discussions surrounding the 2025 WRC regulations. The FIA’s working group initially proposed removing hybrid power as part of a series of changes for 2025 back in February.
However, WRC teams resisted the changes, leading to the current Rally1 regulations remaining in place for 2025 and 2026, signaling a change in direction from the FIA.
With the new safety guidelines from Compact Dynamics requiring costly repairs for the hybrid unit following shock errors, teams believe that the financial burden is now too high to sustain.
An FIA e-vote has taken place to gauge teams’ opinions on whether hybrid power should continue next year, with a final decision pending.
M-Sport-Ford team principal Richard Millener highlighted the extreme costs associated with running the hybrid units, making it financially unviable for the Ford team next year.
Kalle Rovanperä, Jonne Halttunen, Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT Toyota GR Yaris Rally1
Photo by: Red Bull Content Pool
Millener expressed that while the concept of hybrid technology is important, the current repair costs associated with the units are unsustainable for M-Sport.
Toyota team principal Jari-Matti Latvala also voiced concerns about the rising expenses and complexity of the hybrid units, questioning the necessity of hybrid power moving forward.
Hyundai’s team principal Cyril Abitebeoul acknowledged the trend towards electrification but emphasized the need for a quick decision to avoid unnecessary costs if hybrid power were to be removed.
Ott Tänak, Martin Järveoja, Hyundai World Rally Team Hyundai i20 N Rally1
Photo by: Red Bull Content Pool
Overall, the WRC community is navigating the challenges of hybrid power in a way that ensures the future participation and competitiveness of all teams in the championship.
