Supercars approves Ford engine changes for Bathurst 1000

Supercars has approved a specific engine calibration change for the Ford Mustang to be used exclusively for the Repco Bathurst 1000. The decision follows barometric pressure testing which revealed the Ford engines were losing power at the lower atmospheric pressures found at the high altitude of Mount Panorama. The technical adjustment, developed by Triple Eight Race Engineering, involves increasing the air restrictor by 2 mm and modifying crankshaft valve command programming to restore performance. This change will be reversed for the subsequent Gold Coast round.

The technical update has caused tension among teams, with some expressing disappointment regarding the timing of the communication. In related parity adjustments, the Chevrolet Camaro has seen a weight reduction on its chassis to maintain competitive balance.

Meanwhile, Penrite Racing has unveiled special gold and black liveries for its two Ford Mustangs to celebrate the centenary of Penrite Automotive. The team, which currently leads the Teams’ Championship, enters the event with Matt Payne as the defending Bathurst winner. Payne will partner with Will Davison in the #19 car, while Kai Allen and Tim Slade will drive the second Mustang.