The results were encouraging from the beginning of the testing period due to the high level of development obtained by Panoz in the design and evaluation stage in CAD/CAE systems. The main goal is to deliver to the teams a very reliable car in all respects, the overall reliability plus the robustness of the engine assembly - gearbox.
Photo of Panoz DP01 provided by www.champcarworldseries.com
This process of change in the Champ Car category demonstrates the great effort that its managers are making to end the crisis that began in the 21st century, when the political map of the CART changed abruptly and negatively. This proposal aims to achieve lasting stability for teams, pilots, sponsors and suppliers. Another important factor is the consolidation of the regulation, which also failed to escape the aforementioned crisis.
The 2007 season of the Champ Car will receive the new and advanced Panoz DP01 chassis built by “Élan Motorsports Technologies” with Ford-Cosworth turbo engines and Bridgestone tires. Champ Car President Steve Johnson commented that “we are very excited about the potential of the chassis and the revamped Ford Cosworth V8 Turbo engine.”
Johnson added that “the new combination that makes up the car not only provides a better vehicle for the teams but also opens the doors to become highly competitive again. All this achievement is another indicator of the progress achieved since Kevin Kalkhoven, Jerry Forsythe and Paul Gentilozzi took over the Champ Car in 2004.”
While the exterior of the car remains true to the style of the category, all the built-in technology marks a great evolution. The aerodynamic configuration will make this racing car very efficient on street tracks, maintaining its ability to adapt correctly to ovals and other permanent circuits.
The new Panoz chassis is smaller than the previous one in both width and length, while having a weight reduction of 75 kilograms. This results in a more agile and faster car that will demand even more from the drivers.
The aerodynamic changes aim to improve the show on track. With smaller spoilers and larger wind tunnels, the turbulence between cars will be less and performing overpass maneuvers will be easier and more frequent.
Another element that plays an important role in the show is the incorporation of an on-board ignition system. This is how we try to reduce the number of laps with yellow flags and pace car.
As far as safety is concerned, the new design features innovations to improve the lateral protection of the rider's head and corrections to the construction of the (larger) area where the legs are located. Another important detail is the adoption of a telescopic steering column and side panels designed to absorb energy from impacts.
The nose of the car will be compressed in two stages for added safety. For ovals races, the use of a specially designed rear structure was contemplated, as it is known that accidents from behind against the wall cause the most severe damage to drivers.
The car to be used from 2007 will achieve a crucial goal for the equipment of the category: to reduce their operating and maintenance costs. It is estimated that the Panoz chassis will have a lower price in the order of 35% lower, while spare parts for spare parts and maintenance would be in the order of 50% of the above values. New technologies such as carbon fiber brake discs would also be incorporated, which, due to their durability, reliability and long service life, would represent a medium-term investment.
In conclusion, it can be seen that the changes will be very positive, because beyond the issues of cost and technology, what will improve will be the show that fans follow. More powerful, lighter, even and agile cars will allow drivers to become more protagonists and mark differences with their talent.
© Adrián Blanco 2006 — Prohibited the total or partial reproduction of text and/or images without explicit written consent of the author. —
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