Date set for six-model SuperUtes parity test
All six models for the inaugural ECB SuperUtes Series will run together for the first time at Queensland Raceway in February.
A fortnight before the maiden round of the new-for-2018 class at the Adelaide 500, a Balance of Performance test will be conducted to establish parity.
The dual-cab, turbo-diesel platform will commence with models from six different brands - the Ford Ranger, Holden Colorado, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50, Mitsubishi Triton and Toyota Hilux.
While each SuperUte has been homologated with varying levels of running undertaken so far, February 13 will be the first time all six are put through their paces at once.
“The purpose of the test day is to look at how we can ‘balance’ the on-track performance of all the makes,” Supercars Sporting and Technical Director David Stuart told Supercars.com.
“The rough plan is to have two or three invited drivers to drive all six models and then paritise the lap times.
“It’ll be the first time they have all run together and given they all use the same control components, I’m hopeful we can get it all done in one day.”
The SuperUtes race kit includes a control gearbox and differential, Brembo brakes, SupaShock suspension components, exhaust, 20” wheels and tyres, while the CAMS-approved roll cage is bespoke for each manufacturer.
Legendary Supercars team owner Ross Stone has been heavily involved as a technical consultant, and will run a multi-marque team in the class.
The likes of Seiders Racing (Mitsubishi), Peters Motorsport (Mazda) and Western Sydney Motorsport (Toyota) have also outlined plans to compete.
The eight-round ECB SuperUtes Series starts at the Adelaide 500 on March 1-4.
