Nick Percat looks ahead to his last Bathurst 1000 with Brad Jones Racing

The race, normally held in October, will start at 12:15pm on Sunday, later than it's ever done before.

"December and a late start will mean hotter conditions," Percat said.

"This could take its toll on drivers by 6pm that afternoon.

"It can get over 50 degrees in the cabin of these things and even with a cool suit, it's hot.

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"At the end of six hours, fatigue could easily play a role in how well some drivers can tackle the 20-lap sprint to the line.

"We'll take extra care as to how we manage ourselves for whole week to try and limit the effect, but until we get to 5:30 on Sunday afternoon, no-one really knows what will happen."

Dale Wood will co-drive at Bathurst with Percat, who is leaving BJR at the end of the season after five years with the Albury team.

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