DTM, Super GT Agree To Unify Engine Regulations From '17, Push Cooperation

The German Touring Car Championship (DTM) "is pushing its cooperation with the Japanese Super GT racing series," according the SID. The two touring car championships "will have unified engine regulations from '17" after already unifying the series' technical regulations in the areas of aerodynamics and chassis last year. The decision was reached at a meeting between execs of both series on Wednesday. The meeting also included U.S.-based Int'l Motor Sports Association, which "has plans to launch a touring car championship of its own." Hans Werner Aufrecht, who is the chairman of DTM rights holder ITR, said, "We were able to reach agreements in numerous questions and have made strides toward our combined goal. I'm looking forward to the day when the Class One cars from the different continents compete against each other for the first time." The six involved manufacturers -- BMW, Audi, Mercedes, Honda, Lexus and Nissan -- "agreed to the plans" (SID, 5/20).