GreenBkk.com Formula 1 | 2013 engine changes approved, but postponement possible

2013 engine changes approved, but postponement possible

Following a meeting of its World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) in the Spanish city of Barcelona on Friday, the FIA has released details of regulation changes which could come into force for the 2013 season. The sport’s governing body, however, also revealed that a vote could be taken to change the timing of their introduction.

One of the major revisions approved by the WMSC is the establishment of a new engine formula, which will see the current 2.4 litre V8s replaced with 1.6 litre four-cylinder units, with high pressure gasoline injection up to 500 bar and extensive energy management and energy recovery systems. Rev limits on the new engines will be reduced from the current 18,000rpm to a maximum of 12,000.

The aerodynamic regulations for 2013 have been based on the rules used this season, although there are some modifications to improve aero efficiency. The FIA believes that combined with the new powertrain change, the 2013 revisions will deliver a 35 percent reduction in fuel consumption.

Other amendments include a new limit on the height of the tip of car noses to improve safety in T-bone type accidents, a limitation on transmissions (gear ratios, number of gearboxes) in order to decrease costs, and an increase to the overall weight of cars to 660kg. The minimum weight was raised to 640kg this season.

The FIA will now consult with the sport’s main stakeholders and, depending on the outcome of this consultation, may hold a fax vote (by June 30 at the latest) which would permit the implementation date to change.

Related statement from the FIA:

The Technical Regulations for 2013 were approved:

- Power units will be four cylinders, 1.6 litre with high pressure gasoline injection up to 500 bar with a maximum of 12,000 rpm, with extensive energy management and energy recovery systems (now known as ERS), reflecting the decision taken by the WMSC in December 2010

- The aerodynamic regulations have been based on 2011 rules, with modifications in order to improve the aerodynamic efficiency: together with the power train rules, this will enable a 35 percent reduction in fuel consumption

- The height of the tip of the nose will be limited to ensure better compatibility in a T-bone style accident

- A limitation on transmissions (gear ratios, number of gearboxes) in order to decrease costs

- The overall weight of the car must be no less than 660kg

In consultation with the main stakeholders, and following the outcome of this consultation, a fax vote by the WMSC could be considered by 30 June latest to redefine the implementation date of these technical regulations.

Credit: Formula One Administration Ltd (www.formula1.com)