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Formula One reverts to electronic controls

Derrick Whyte
Saturday 09 December 2000 01:00 GMT
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The sport's world ruling body, FIA, yesterday gave the go-ahead for traction control systems to be re-introduced to Formula One racing. But it said in a statement that the removal of all restrictions on the electronic control of engines and transmissions would have to be part of a package of new measures to improve safety.

The sport's world ruling body, FIA, yesterday gave the go-ahead for traction control systems to be re-introduced to Formula One racing. But it said in a statement that the removal of all restrictions on the electronic control of engines and transmissions would have to be part of a package of new measures to improve safety.

The FIA's World Motor Sport Council accepted the recommendation of its technical working group that electronic systems which allow smoother starts, reduce wheelspin and give more grip in corners and in the wet should be re-introduced for the first time since 1993.

The working group had been asked to propose rules that would prevent electronics becoming too much of an aid. Some drivers fear their skill behind the wheel could become of secondary importance to computer software.

If the new rules are accepted by the council and team bosses early next year, unrestricted engine electronics may be permitted by the Spanish Grand Prix in April, FIA said. One measure being considered is a device to alert drivers to the presence of a car in front when visibility is reduced by spray.

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