In-car warning light system to be implemented in 2019

THE Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour will introduce a major step forward in improving driver safety at the 2019 event. 

Following several months of consultation and development, 12-Hour Sporting Director David Stuart has confirmed a brand-new warning light system will be introduced in all cars competing in the January 31-February 3 race.

In a Bathurst first, the system will tie in with the Motec Balance of Performance (BoP) monitoring system fitted to each entry, and will be controlled by race control officials in the event of an incident throughout the weekend.

In the event of an incident, race control will deploy the warning light system in each car appropriate to the situation - be it yellow for a Safety Car or Red for a race suspension or stoppage.

It is designed to complement existing flag marshal and warning light systems already in place at Mount Panorama.

The new system is expected to be particularly advantageous in managing Safety for incidents across the top of the circuit, where a combination of blind corners, high average speeds and race traffic can see drivers sometimes miss caution flags.

"This system will be a first for Mount Panorama," Bathurst 12 Hour sporting director David Stuart said.

"The technical team at Supercars has worked hard to ensure the system is fully functioning and reliable for implementation this year and we know it will add a great deal to the safety of all competitors.

"When it comes to incidents at any circuit, but especially one with the challenges that Mount Panorama presents, there are no certainties however this will be another tool for race control to utilise and deploy in the event of an incident during the weekend."

Given its potential for use at other events at Bathurst or other circuits, Supercars and CAMS officials will monitor the implementation and use of the warning light system throughout the weekend.