This weekend in Catalunya WRC teams are testing a new technical regulation to be applied from the start of the 2005 season, which requires cars to use the same engine for two rallies. Introduced primarily as a cost-cutting measure, the idea to use engines twice was developed by a technical working group that comprised representatives from manufacturer teams and the FIA.

Subaru World Rally Team Principal, David Lapworth, explains more:

It's the first time in the history of the WRC that we've done this, but it's a good opportunity to test out the theory before the system is introduced properly next year. The idea is pretty simple; instead of building sixteen engines a year for each car, we build eight and ensure they last. As a team we're certainly in favour as it helps reduce costs and, as events have been getting shorter over the years, keeps some emphasis on durability and reliability. I estimate that next year, each WRC engine will cover about 1,000 stage kilometres.

Although we're still able to check the engine on a dynamometer and replace ancillary components like the turbo or the exhaust system between the two rallies, scrutineers will seal the block and cylinder heads to prevent any internal work. If a new engine is required, then a 20 second time penalty will be added for the next rally. The only exception is if a car retires on the first rally, then a new engine may be fitted without incurring any extra time.

The Subaru flat-four engine has proved to be a strong and reliable unit and we're not expecting to 'de-tune' it in any way to cope with the extra mileage. On this rally we're running exactly the same settings as usual, and see no reason why, in the long term, engine life can't be extended to four or even five events.