WRC season starts with safety upgrade

The safety nets, still under development with the teams, will be placed along the centre-line of the car, between the driver and co driver, in order to limit the excursion of the occupants, and prevent them impacting each other during a violent impact or roll.

A load spreading door system will increase the strength of the car in the region of the front doors, and will reduce the intrusion during a side impact accident.

A high-g sled at DEKRA was commissioned for development testing where it was demonstrated that a high velocity 70g side impact could be survived without serious injury.

"After three years of research and testing I am delighted to see these important safety measures incorporated into the rally cars," said Petter Solberg. "The teams and drivers have been highly supportive throughout and I look forward to further collaborations as we continue to strive for ever higher levels of safety in our sport."

Mikko Hirvonen is also a strong supporter of the initiatives. "Crew safety is the top priority for everyone in rallying. I obviously appreciate the need to focus on safety, and it is hugely encouraging to see how closely the teams have been working with the FIA Institute and the importance that has been placed on making rally cars as strong as possible. I'm also pleased to see that research will continue in the future with a view to taking improved safety even further."