FEBRUARY 23, 2001
FIA confirm technical changes
THE Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) have confirmed the introduction of various new technical changes including speed limits during accidents and the use of a traction control system during the next two years.
The introduction of traction control, widely-criticized by Niki Lauda earlier this week, will come into force at this season's Spanish Grand Prix, after the World Motor Sport Council approved the changes.
Other regulations to come into force for the race include the ban of any system capable of detecting a race start signal and the abolition of any restrictions on clutch control during gear changes.
Powered devices in suspension and braking systems will be banned along with any use of computer-controlled steering. The FIA will maintain their software policing routines to ensure such safety measures are adhered to.
The use of electronic devices to help drivers keep to speed limits instead of yellow flags will come into force at the start of the 2002 season, while collision and speed warning systems will be introduced in 2003.