Pick-ups to replace Aussie utes in V8 Supercars series

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Low-riding V8 utes are set to be replaced by dual-cab, turbodiesel SuperUtes in Australia’s V8 Supercars racing series next year. The more traditional trucks, which is said to have greater relevance to the new car market, will make up a new support series to the premiere V8 Supercars series.

For many years, the V8 Utes race series has stayed loyal to the Ford and Holden duo of Falcon and Commodore utes, but in the interests of maintaining relevance, the new race series has been crafted to accommodate the likes of the Toyota Hilux, Volkswagen Amarok, Ford Ranger, Nissan Navara and Holden Colorado (known in Malaysia as the Chevrolet Colorado).

“V8 Utes has been a popular and entertaining category but with the changing automotive market, it’s important that the Utes series becomes more market relevant. Utilising production based turbodiesel dual cab pick-ups currently available for sale in the Australian market, SuperUtes will open the category to a variety of new manufacturers while still maintaining the spectacular and entertaining elements that make the category such a favourite with the fans,” said Supercars Managing Director Matt Braid.

The upcoming race series, according to the report, is aimed at privateer entries rather than multi-million dollar, factory-backed competitors. The technical regulations for the upcoming SuperUtes series are intended to reflect that.

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Regulations tentatively say that vehicles entered must use their original turbodiesel engine, with outputs to be limited to an as-yet unspecified level. Driveline must be rear-wheel-drive only, minimum weight is pegged at 1,800 kg and downforce generating spoilers are not allowed.

Meanwhile, ECUs, wheels, tyres and brakes are to be control items, meaning everyone will get the same specifications for those, for a more level playing field. Judging by the images of the race-prepared trucks above, that includes Dunlop tyres and AP Racing brakes.

The new SuperUtes series will race next year in July, superseding the V8 Utes series when it starts in Townsville, before going on to Queensland, Bathurst, Surfers Paradise and Newcastle – venues chosen for their higher profile in order to maximise exposure for drivers, sponsors and manufacturers.

Truck racing is a slightly fringe sub-genre of motorsport in our neck of the woods, but what do you think is better for the sport? More relevance to the new car market, or more V8 thunder?

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Mick Chan

Open roads and closed circuits hold great allure for Mick Chan. Driving heaven to him is exercising a playful chassis on twisty paths; prizes ergonomics and involvement over gadgetry. Spent three years at a motoring newspaper and short stint with a magazine prior to joining this website.

 

Comments

  • jonn dol on Oct 24, 2016 at 1:52 pm

    That must be inspired by the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series..

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 0
  • With the demise of Aussie local automotive industry, thanks to short sighted politikuses, the Ute is now condemned into history books of automobiles.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • BOYRACER on Oct 24, 2016 at 11:35 pm

    While the V8 utes are entertaining to watch,my guess is it’s only relevant to the Aussies as only they get to buy those utes.I think it’s more relevant for pickup trucks to go racing as they will open up larger audiences.I do like to watch those V8 supercars but with the pickup trucks also in the race,it will be double the fun. It’s a great feeling watching races with everyday cars that you are driving.Imagine the feeling the very truck you drive is winning the race.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • donno on Oct 25, 2016 at 8:18 am

    There is already a similar class in Thailand Super Series called the Super Pickup racing class. If the technical cost is low and the racing is great, why not?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
 

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