MG AND FIAT AMONG NEW TCR BRANDS

MG and Fiat among new TCR brands – Image: Supplied

Manufacturers continue to homologate new racing variants for the TCR touring car regulations, while further marques are expected to join in the future according to creator of TCR and WSC president Marcello Lotti.

By HEATH McALPINE

Now Chinese-owned, MG debuted its 6 X-Power last year and has competed in Asia this season under local homologation. This new model is now available to customers through 333 Racing Club after successfully completing the international TCR homologation process.

Close to completing its homologation process is the privateer Tecnodom Sport-built Fiat Tipo after making its debut in TCR Europe at Monza recently.

Further additions from Japanese manufacturers Toyota and Mazda are also in the early stages of development.

After announcing a TCR version of its new 3 hatchback, Mazda canned the American-based project due to the team leading the development, Long Road Racing was disbanded late-last year.

TCR South America will debut next year and Toyota is expected to be part of the field through its Argentinean distributor, which confirmed it was building entries based on the Toyota Corolla sedan.

Lotti confirmed new models will be available to customers ahead of the 2021 season and confirmed the development of new variants, which further expand the categories diversity.

“In 2021 new TCR models will be available to the customer teams all around the world,” said Lotti.

“The MG 6 has already gone successfully through the homologation procedure and has proved to be competitive by winning races and fighting for the title in this year’s TCR China.

“The Fiat Tipo has made its maiden appearance in the TCR Europe event at Monza and is now ready to complete the homologation procedure.

“The Hyundai Elantra N has completed its technical development phase and will be submitted for homologation at the beginning of the new year.

“On top of this, we are in contact with Mazda and Toyota and we will have information soon about their plans.

“After six years of TCR competitions around the world, the constant interest from new brands is testament to the great success achieved by the category.”

TCR Australia played host to the most diverse fields in the world, featuring 10-manufacturers at The Bend’s final round last year.

Interest in the dominant Lynk & Co, which recently launched its first customer program is also understood to be healthy.

“The diversity of the TCR platform is one of its great charms, and the biggest motivator for the Australian Racing Group to secure the rights to run the series here in Australia,” said ARG CEO Matt Braid.

“To have 10 available brands already here in Australia gives the series great scope in terms of racing, marketing and media activities.

“To hear that brands like MG and Fiat are on the brink of having eligible vehicles to add to an already formidable list, and Mazda and Toyota are working on their plans for TCR is amazing. These are brands that are considered as major players in the Australian market and we look forward to learning more.

“Different types of cars, racing under common, controlled regulations and, for Australian entrants, broadcast on the Seven Network, it’s a recipe for success.”

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