There are some changes in the 2012 DTM regulations compared with the 2011 season. The new DTM cars are now two-door coupes instead of the four-door saloons used previously. The cars are longer (5,010 mm), wider (1,950 mm) and lower (1,210 mm). Minimum vehicle weight has been set at 1,100 kilos. The new safety concept is based on a standard construction carbon fibre monocoque with roll cage and crash structures. There are about 50 standard components to include parts such as brakes, fuel tank, rear wing, gearbox, clutch and starter motor.
Only V8 engines with a cylinder bank angle of 90 degrees, a maximum displacement of four litres and a maximum of four valves per cylinder are permitted in the DTM. The inlet system must be fitted with two air restrictors, each having a maximum diameter of 28 mm. Two weeks before the start of the season three engines for two registered entrants, respectively, are sealed. These engines must be used throughout the season. A DTM engine delivers roughly 500 hp. Drivers now change gear using paddles located on the steering wheel. Only one gearbox-differential unit – from Hewland – is permitted.
All DTM vehicles operate with identical engine control units supplied by Bosch. Data transmission while the vehicle is out on the track is prohibited. The carbon fibre brakes, brake pads and brake callipers for all teams are supplied by the same manufacturer (AP). Three sets of brake discs for the front and rear wheels, respectively, may be used during a season.
The new Hankook tyres are taller and wider than their predecessors. They measure 30 cm at the front (previously 26 cm) and 32 cm at the rear (previously 28 cm). Every race includes two mandatory pit stops at which all four tyres have to be changed. Refuelling is no longer permitted as of the 2012 season, so the fuel tank capacity has been increased from 70 to 120 litres. Only the fuel specified for the respective event (ARAL Ultimate 102) may be used.
