Supercars Gen3 chassis breaks cover
Supercars has formally unveiled the first of its new-for-2022 Gen3 chassis.
This particular chassis was built by GM homologation team Triple Eight Race Engineering, and will underpin the prototype Supercars-spec Chevrolet Camaro.
The most significant change compared to the current chassis is removable front and rear sections, which will allow faster repairs on race weekends.
There are also safety upgrades including a more central driving position to move the driver further from the right-hand door and a hatch in the roof to allow better access for medical crews.
The chassis is also visibly lower than its predecessor as the category moves away from its sedan roots and properly embraces two-door muscle cars like the Camaro and the Ford Mustang.
“We’re excited to present this latest milestone in the Gen3 programme,” said Supercars CEO Sean Seamer.
"I'd like to thank the team that have put in thousands of hours to reach this point, particularly Triple Eight Race Engineering.
“We’re proud of the developments with regards to safety and repairability, which was a key objective of the programme.
“Considerable work has also gone in to the design and styling of the cars, they look incredible, and we can’t wait to release details and images soon.”
While T8 is building the Camaro prototype, Dick Johnson Racing and Ford Performance will team up to spearhead the homologation of the new Gen3-spec Mustang.
Supercars is planning to have prototypes of both the Camaro and the Mustang on-track by the middle of this year.
The unveiling of the first Gen3 chassis coincides with the tender for two Racing Entitlements Contracts, which could see the grid expand to 26 cars next season.
However there is still significant uncertainty over the new rules from existing teams and potential newcomers, including how engine supply will work.
The category is expected to move to crate Ford and GM V8s, with testing underway on prototype units, understood to have been built by KRE Race Engines and Mostech.
As it stands there are a mix of in-house engine shops and specialist builders, however that could change once the new regulations are introduced.
The gearbox has been another flashpoint of discussion, with Supercars investigating a controversial move to paddles and assisted shift.
Previous article
Tickford locks in three-round Supercars wildcard
Next article
Two suppliers for prototype Gen3 chassis
About this article
| Series | Supercars |
Can DJR still be a Supercars powerhouse after Penske?
Roger Penske's whirlwind Australian Supercars sojourn is over. After six seasons, three drivers' titles, three teams' championships and a Bathurst 1000 crown, The Captain has sold his controlling stake in Dick Johnson Racing back to the squad and walked away from the category.
Can Whincup be Triple Eight's ruthless leader?
Supercars' most successful team of the past 15 years is set for a radical shakeup next year when Jamie Whincup retires from driving and takes over the reins at Triple Eight. But does he have what it takes to be the new Roland Dane?
How a lifetime Supercars deal broke down in one year
David Reynolds inked what was effectively a lifetime deal with Erebus in 2019 – only to walk out a year later. What went wrong?
Why Supercars now needs a new "human salt harvester"
Scott McLaughlin has been a controversial figure in Supercars over the past few years but, as he heads off to a fresh challenge in IndyCar, the Australian tin-top series needs to find someone else to fill his drama-filled boots as the category enters a new era...
Why 2020 isn't McLaughlin's greatest title
Scott McLaughlin was quick to describe his third Supercars title as his best yet. But even though it didn't match the dramatic backstory of his 2018 triumph, there's a good reason for him wanting to control the narrative this time around.
Why a Bathurst finale is risky business for Supercars
The Bathurst Grand Final may provide Supercars its greatest spectacle yet – but there's a risk it will force the series to face a hard truth.
Why Scott McLaughlin must become an IndyCar driver
Scott McLaughlin, two-time and current Supercars champion, should have been making his NTT IndyCar Series debut for Team Penske at the GP of Indianapolis, but the Covid-19 pandemic forced a rescheduling that has put the brakes on his career switch. But David Malsher-Lopez explains why the New Zealander deserves this opportunity as soon as possible.
Tickford's 10-year wait for James Courtney
When the Supercars season resumes James Courtney will be a Tickford Racing driver – but it's not the first time the star driver has flirted with the famous Ford squad.
