Key Developments in the 2027 World Rally Championship Technical Regulations
The upcoming summer break is expected to mark a significant step forward in finalizing the technical regulations for the 2027 World Rally Championship (WRC). These rules, announced as part of a 10-year framework last December, aim to create a more cost-effective and adaptable environment for rallying’s top-tier competition. The goal is to attract new manufacturers and teams while maintaining high standards of performance and safety.
Under the proposed WRC27 regulations, cars will be built with a €345,000 cost cap, producing approximately 300 horsepower. The design will feature a space frame chassis and Rally2 componentry, with strict limitations on expensive materials like carbon fiber to keep costs under control. Safety remains a top priority, with the new vehicles expected to be even safer than the current Rally1 models.
Starting from 2027, existing Rally2 cars will compete alongside the new WRC27 models in the top tier of the WRC. Over time, the focus will shift towards the newer WRC27 cars, which are designed to eventually replace the Rally2 machinery.
Flexibility in Design and Manufacturing
Tuners and automotive manufacturers will have the opportunity to construct chassis and design their own bodywork, adhering to the 2027 regulations. In June, the FIA approved bodywork regulations that allow for a wide range of designs, including saloons, hatchbacks, crossovers, and completely custom options. The new car will be 20mm taller than the current Rally1 model but maintain a similar width and weigh 1230kg—matching the weight of the current Rally2 car.
With the bodywork regulations now finalized, the FIA plans to complete details regarding the roll cage design. This will involve a series of crash tests planned before the end of the month. A German firm has been enlisted to conduct CFD research into the new roll cage design.
“Everything is set up, and if you want to design a car, you have all the information,” said Xavier Mestelan Pinon, the FIA technical director. “We work on the details continuously. On the roll cage, we’ve completed our studies and will conduct dynamic side impact tests by the end of August to confirm our calculations and ensure the design meets the required safety standards.”
Engine Discussions and Future Flexibility
Engine discussions continue as the FIA outlines the initial focus on internal combustion engines for the 2027 season. However, there are plans to introduce flexibility for alternative powertrains in the future. From 2027, homologated turbocharged Rally2 engines will serve as the base formula. The FIA is currently exploring the possibility of allowing manufacturers and tuners to use production car engines.
“For the Rally2 engine, it is already decided. This is one option, but we are discussing the possibility of introducing an engine based on production cars,” said Mestelan Pinon.
Toyota is the only current WRC manufacturer actively working on a 2027 concept, while M-Sport-Ford and Hyundai have yet to commit. M-Sport is evaluating its options and prefers to partner with a manufacturer for such a project. Meanwhile, Hyundai has expressed concerns about the current proposal, stating it is not interested in a car based solely on a traditional Rally2 internal combustion engine.
“We will look at it if the rules are more open for the powertrain. A manufacturer like Hyundai needs more technology in the cars. We want to promote the ‘win on Sunday, sell on Monday’ philosophy. The basic car the FIA wants to push for in 2027 is not really interesting to us,” said Francois-Xavier Demaison, Hyundai’s technical director.
Looking Ahead: Alternative Powertrains
The FIA has not yet determined when it will open the door to alternative powertrains. “We haven’t made a final decision on when we will open up to another alternative technology,” said Emilia Abel, FIA road sport director. “The option is there, and the regulations have the framework for it, but we haven’t made a final decision.”