Electric Vehicles
Karting is constantly evolving, and safety remains a top priority in the sport. The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has introduced a new set of regulations aimed at improving karting apparel safety: the FIA Karting Homologation Standard 8877-2022. This new standard brings significant updates to protective gear, ensuring that kart racers have access to the most advanced safety technology.
In this guide, we’ll explore the major changes, their impact, and key dates for the rollout of these new regulations.
Key Updates in FIA Standard 8877-2022
The primary changes focus on karting suits. The FIA has replaced the previous LEVEL classification with a more detailed GRADE system, reflecting the enhanced safety requirements of this new standard.
Improved Abrasion Testing
- One major upgrade is the shift in abrasion testing methods. The testing standard has moved from the Cambridge to the Darmstad method, aligning karting suit standards with those used in motorcycle protective gear. This ensures karting suits are more durable and better suited to withstand the rigors of racing.
Transition from LEVEL to GRADE
The new standard replaces the old LEVEL 1 and LEVEL 2 classifications with GRADE 1 and GRADE 2 ratings, which offer enhanced safety.
- GRADE 1: Replaces LEVEL 2 and is now the baseline protection standard for karting suits, such as the Alpinestars KMX-5 V3 suit.
- GRADE 2: A new addition to the standards, offering protection similar to motorcycle leather suits, making it ideal for long circuit use and offering the highest level of safety.
After December 2024, suit manufacturers will no longer be allowed to produce CIK/FIA suits under the old LEVEL system.
Homologation for Gloves and Boots
The new standard also extends to karting gloves and boots, which are now subject to homologation. Approved products, such as the Alpinestars Tech 1-K V3 Kart Gloves and OMP KS-XR Kart Boots, will carry a hologram as proof of compliance with the 8877-2022 standard. Unlike suits, gloves and boots don’t have GRADE classifications, but must still meet this new homologation standard.
Combatting Counterfeiting
To combat the rise of counterfeit gear, all karting suits must now feature a homologation hologram. This ensures racers are wearing approved, safe gear, and helps prevent unsafe, counterfeit products from entering the market.
Key Dates for Implementation
- June 29, 2022: Homologation of karting suits, gloves, and boots under FIA standard 8877-2022 begins.
- December 31, 2024: Production of CIK-FIA 2023-1 Level 2 suits ends, though suits produced before this date can still be used until December 31, 2029.
- January 1, 2025: The new standard becomes mandatory for all karting competitions on the FIA International Sporting Calendar, including gloves and boots.
- December 31, 2029: Last day to use CIK/FIA N2013-1 Level 2 suits.
- January 1, 2030: Only FIA 8877-2022 standard suits are accepted in FIA-sanctioned competitions.
UK Implementation of the New Standard
In the UK, the new regulations will initially impact high-level international and European events from January 2024. However, Motorsport UK (the governing body for motorsport in the UK) is likely to allow both Grade 1 and older Level 2 suits to be used in local events for the foreseeable future, helping to keep costs manageable for competitors.
Preparing for the Transition
Kart racers should start planning for the transition to the new standard by checking the homologation status of their gear. With manufacturers ramping up production of FIA 8877-2022-compliant equipment, it’s important to ensure all safety gear meets the latest standards before the deadlines.
Conclusion
- The FIA Karting Homologation Standard 8877-2022 marks a major step forward in karting safety. By phasing in these new regulations, the FIA aims to improve protection for all racers while ensuring a smooth transition. As the sport embraces these safety improvements, racers can look forward to a safer and more thrilling experience on the track.
GPR does not claim the copyright to all images used in this blog. When copyright is unknown, we have not been able to seek permission for image use and will remove immediately any infringing content upon request.
