Rule changes to spice up DTM.

The DTM regulations have been amended for 2003 to make the popular series even more exciting. The points system is being altered, the system for qualifying changes, and engine numbers will be controlled.

Qualifying on Saturday (currently 45 minutes with a maximum of twelve laps) is to be separated as of 2003. It starts with a 20 minutes' timed practice with up to nine laps for each driver. This decides on the line-up of grid positions eleven and onwards, as well as the starting order for the so-called "Super-Pole" lap.

After a five minutes' break, the ten fastest drivers will start for their individual flying lap in reverse order. This will decide on the grid positions one to ten.

The points scheme for the main race will follow the new scheme adopted in Formula One, with points for first to eighth place (10-8-6-5-4-3-2-1). Previously, points were only given up to sixth place. The points for the qualification race (3-2-1) remain unchanged. Next to the drivers' classification, there will be a manufacturers' classification in 2003. Similarly to the drivers' points scheme, all cars from a manufacturer will be able to score points.

A further reduction to costs will be achieved by a change in the technical regulations: the number of four litre V8-engines available will be reduced. Next year, the two-car teams will only have a total of three engines for the entire season, instead of the four used so far. These engines can be used alternately.

Currently, the DTM looks all set to have a 20 car field. The Abt-Audi, Mercedes-Benz and Opel are planning to enter four newly developed Abt-Audi TT-Rs, Mercedes-Benz CLK-DTMs and Opel Astra V8 Coup?s. In addition, Abt-Audi and Opel have each planned two cars from last year, Mercedes-Benz looks set to enter four one-year old cars.