Based on continued testing success of the Electrimotion Safety Shutoff Controller, NHRA is mandating its use on all nitro Funny Cars beginning at the ACDelco Las Vegas NHRA Nationals.

The Electrimotion Safety Shutoff Controller was designed by Dave Leahy of Electrimotion, a company based in Delaware, Ohio, that specializes in electronic control systems.  The controller senses manifold burst panel failure and simultaneously activates the fuel shutoff, shuts off ignition, and deploys parachutes.  Testing on the mechanism began in Reading, Pa., and the controller has been utilized by several Funny Car teams including Jim Head, Robert Hight, Del Worsham and John Force.

Based on continued testing success of the Electrimotion Safety Shutoff Controller, NHRA is mandating its use on all nitro Funny Cars beginning at the ACDelco Las Vegas NHRA Nationals.

The Electrimotion Safety Shutoff Controller was designed by Dave Leahy of Electrimotion, a company based in Delaware, Ohio, that specializes in electronic control systems.  The controller senses manifold burst panel failure and simultaneously activates the fuel shutoff, shuts off ignition, and deploys parachutes.  Testing on the mechanism began in Reading, Pa., and the controller has been utilized by several Funny Car teams including Jim Head, Robert Hight, Del Worsham and John Force.

Use of this system is part of NHRA's ongoing efforts to improve safety and was one of the areas of focus outlined earlier this year.

To prepare for the mandatory use of this controller, NHRA is strongly recommending that all nitro Funny Car teams install the controller before the Virginia NHRA Nationals. NHRA technical operations officials will use the upcoming event in Richmond as an opportunity to inspect all installed safety devices and to assist teams with any installation issues.