Japanese wheel manufacturer BBS have been named as the “official wheel rim provider” to Formula 1 and will supply all ten teams with wheels starting with the next championship.
The next season, taking into consideration the major regulation changes, should give the sport a new and better look. The introduction of standardized wheels as part of the same has the goal of leading to closer racing, more on track action while at the same time reining in development costs
The contract was officially confirmed during the Tokyo Auto Salon car show. Until now, the Formula 1 teams were able to find and choose their own suppliers for wheels, with brands including Oz and Enkei manufacturing wheels for several competitors.
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Formula 1 will move from 13-inch wheels used for many decades to new 18-inch, low-profile wheels in 2022. Italian tyre supplier Pirelli will continue to provide tyres to the world championship.
BBS will also supply standardised wheel rims to the NASCAR Cup Series as the American series also introduces a new car following an overhaul of technical regulations.
BBS Japan has reportedly signed four- and three-year deals with the governing bodies of Formula 1 and NASCAR, respectively. The Japanese company works under the umbrella of the Maedakosen group. The parent company supplies tires to several luxury car brands in the U.S. and Europe. With the sport transitioning into the 18-inch wheel from next season, this expertise could prove to be a boon for both development and marketing.
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