GP2 announces changes for 2006

The car with which the 26 drivers will compete in 2006 will be an updated and upgraded version of that raced in 2005.

The Dallara-designed machine will feature one major aerodynamic change in so far as the rear wing element will now feature a biplane wing, with the triple-plane used in 2005 only permitted for use at the Monaco round of the series.

The cars will also feature reinforced front upper and lower wishbones and reinforced front and rear suspension uprights. Brembo have developed new monobloc brake calipers and disc bells, for use exclusively in the GP2 series in 2006.

The Renault V8 engine will feature an internal, cartographic and software upgrade, and the car will also feature a new engine air duct.

In addition, all cars will now run on slick Bridgestone tyres, which will not feature the grooves seen in 2005.

In 2006, sporting regulations will change to award the driver who sets the fastest lap of a race a single point, rather than the two points given in 2005. Also, the driver must have started from his prescribed grid position in order to claim fastest lap.

"When we came up with our plans for the development of the GP2 series, it was always our intention to continuously upgrade our car over the years of the championship in an effort to provide fresh challenges to the mechanics and engineers of our teams," said series organiser Bruno Michel.

"I believe that our development team has done a very good job in both improving the performance of the GP2 series car, and maintaining the challenge which our teams and drivers will face in the forthcoming season.

"I must also thank Bridgestone for the hard work and enthusiasm they have shown in designing and manufacturing a totally new concept of dry weather tyres for the series. 2006 promises to be another exciting chapter in the story of the GP2 series."