FIA Bans Traction Control From 2008

Originally banned in 1993, the FIA chose to allow the aid back into Formula 1 in 2001 after realizing that it was too difficult to enforce such a ruling, and that some teams might have gotten around it through the clever use of engine management systems. Now, thanks to the introduction of a standard ECU, it will be possible for the FIA to closely monitor its use and detect any illegal systems.

Article 9.3 of the newly-amended technical regulations states: “No car may be equipped with a system or device which is capable of preventing the driven wheels from spinning under power or of compensating for excessive throttle demand by the driver. Any device or system which notifies the driver of the onset of wheel spin is not permitted.”

The new revisions were agreed to by all competing teams at a meeting in Paris of the World Motor Sport Council on Wednesday.

Also changed will be the width of the cars, which will be reduced by 200 millimetres, while reintroduction of slick tyres remains yet to be seen. The engine “freeze” regulations have also been relaxed and will allow teams to tweak more components, including fuel injection and exhaust systems.

Credits: Kr0n