A few changes to the regulationsTyre manufacturer Pirelli will soon begin its role as single supplier to the World Rally Championship for the next three years, beginning with the 2008 season. Following that nomination, the FIA decided upon rule changes affecting the use
of tyres.
The teams will be supplied with three particular brands of tyres by the Italian manufacturer, one for each type of surface to be raced upon during a championship.
The P-Zero tyre will be used for the tarmac rallies, the Scorpion for gravel surfaces, and the Sottozero is designed for trails covered by ice and snow.
For asphalt rallies contested under usually clement conditions, the P-Zero will be available with two types of compound. The harder material will serve racing needs in dry conditions, while the softer will be used in wet weather.
Harder and softer compounds will also be available under the Scorpion denomination. The nature of the gravel routes employed will determine the type of tyre to be supplied to the teams.
The Sottozero will be available with two different types of patterns, with one specifically designed for snow and the other for icy conditions. Pirelli technicians will be taking care of any studding.
Since the nature of the Monte Carlo stages has always been prone to difficult tyre assessment, the teams will have the choice of using either the Sottozero or P-Zero options during this opening round of the season.
The FIA had decided previously to forbid the use of mousse within tyres, with the regulation change coming into effect in 2008. The removal of that 'safety net' of sorts will once again make the resistance to punctures something to deal with more closely.
Cutting is still allowed, but solely at tarmac rallies when conditions are wet and only with officially approved patterns.
