It’s no secret that promoter Dorna Motorsports has been trying to push a standardized electronics control unit for teams in the MotoGP World Championship. The lack of a top-tier electronics package has been one of the biggest challenges faced by MotoGP’s claiming rule teams, and a spec ECU would narrow the gap between the CRT bikes and the factory prototypes. The manufacturers competing in the series, Honda, Ducati and Yamaha, understandably are resistant to the idea considering the effort they’ve put in to develop their electronics systems.
It may only be a matter of time before the premier class adopts a standardized ECU. The Moto2 and Moto3 classes have spec electronics packages, and sooner or later MotoGP will likely follow suit. The series has taken a big step towards that goal with the announcement of a four-year contract with Italian electronics company Magneti Marelli to provide its ECU to any and all MotoGP teams.
Beginning with the 2013 MotoGP season, teams will have access to Magenti Marelli’s latest electronic control system. The package includes an engine and chassis control unit with inboard data-logger, various tuning and data analysis tools, dashboard, handlebar toggle switch and inertial platform, as well as trackside support of Magenti Marelli technicians. Best of all, the Magenti Marelli package won’t cost teams a dime. Continue Reading »
