The fat outer tire can be moved in and out on the axle before the race to achieve maximum cornering power for track conditions.

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The new developments include a switch to slick tyres from the grooved ones of recent years, and the introduction of the kinetic energy recovery system (Kers), which stores energy recovered from the rear axle during braking and converts it to supply a brief power boost.

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About two months ago Regal-Beloits Durst power transmission division in Beloit bailed out a longtime customer when the customers supplier couldnt deliver a certain axle shaft in time.

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It also, though, has an electric motor that provides additional power to the rear wheels (through the same gearbox) and a second electric motor connected directly to the front axle.

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