The ALMS has embraced nearly the entire ACO rulebook, adding a few key differences for 2011. (Photo: Dan Boyd/LAT)
IMSA, the sanctioning body for the American Le Mans Series, released a draft version of its 2011 rulebook to competitors this week. While the technical regulations are largely based from the Automobile Club de l’Ouest’s rulebook which was issued last month, some additions changes have been made, primarily to the sporting side of the regulations.
Here’s a list of the more notable changes that will be in store ahead of the season-opening Twelve Hours of Sebring in March:
Driver Ranking - As expected, the ALMS has adopted the ACO’s medallion system of driver ranking for the LMP2, LMPC and GTC classes. At the start of the season, each driver will be graded into either Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum, depending on their qualification and past level of achievement. LMP2 cars must have a minimum of one Silver or Bronze driver, while a maximum of one Platinum or Gold driver will be allowed in LMPC and GTC entries.
Balance of Performance - IMSA has fully embraced the ACO’s revised Balance of Performance procedures for 2011. Ensured to maintain a two percent range between different powertain technologies in lap times, the ACO reserves the right to make adjustments following the second race of the season. A maximum of two adjustments can be made for each type of car (gasoline, diesel, hybrid) over the course of the season.
Driver Rules - Drivers will be permitted to compete in up to two cars per weekend class-wide, although under new conditions. While drivers entered in two cars can score points if entered in different classes, it’s not the case for cars for those wanting to drive two cars in the same class. Instead, the team must declare which car the driver will score points in prior to official practice. The driver must obey all minimum and maximum drive-time rules in both cases.
Qualifying Procedure - In efforts to ensure that a full qualifying session is run, the clock will be stopped should a qualifying session be interrupted. Competitors will be guaranteed a minimum of eight minutes of green flag running time. If not, IMSA will set the grid order by points in the order of LMP1, LMP2, LMPC, GT and GTC.
Bodywork Damage - After two years of enforcement in Europe, IMSA has adopted the ACO’s rule on cars running with pieces of damaged bodywork. Competitors must “maintain the fixation and good condition” of the louvers at all times. Any louver with at least one strip missing must be replaced immediately during a pit stop . Repairing the louvers by tape will not be allowed.
Car Numbers - ALMS competitors will have an additional ‘0’ added to the beginning of their car numbers for the Twelve Hours of Sebring and Petit Le Mans, races which are also part of the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup. It’s believed to be a measure to ensure that season-long ILMC competitors will carry the same numbers through all seven events.
With the ACO having already confirmed its 2011 regulations, it’s expected IMSA will follow suit with a bulletin outlining any changes or revised starting points for ALMS competitors in the next few weeks, ahead of the Sebring Winter Test on Feb. 9-10.
