The Autobacs SUPER GT Series will introduce ETS Racing Fuels’ (part of Haltermann Carless GmbH) Renewablaze R100 carbon-neutral racing fuel at the season-opening Okayama GT 300km Race on 15-16 April.
However, it will only be a partial introduction. The GT500 class will race with the new cellulose-based fuel at Okayama as planned. But after the results of two spring pre-season tests at Okayama International Circuit and Fuji Speedway, SUPER GT will delay its introduction into the GT300 class until Round 3 at Suzuka Circuit on 3-4 June.
The GT Association (GTA), promoter of the SUPER GT Series, said in a statement on Monday: “Due to the wide variety of manufacturers, car models and engine types, and the time required to respond, we are extending the preparation period for the introduction of the new fuel system.”
For many GT300 teams, the official pre-season tests at Okayama and Fuji were their first opportunity to test on the new fuel. Only nine GT300 teams had the chance to participate in a designated CNF test at Mobility Resort Motegi on 7 November. And that one-day test was the only chance these teams had last year following the cancellation of an August test at Suzuka Circuit, which was to have been the first SUPER GT CNF test.
In contrast, GT500 manufacturers Nissan, Honda, and Toyota have reportedly been conducting private benchmark tests last year and have much more data at their disposal in preparation for the coming season.
The introduction of the new fuel did see a predicted drop in horsepower and lap times, but no abnormal technical problems as a direct consequence of its introduction.
