The World Motor Sport Council has ushered in numerous changes for Formula One following its meeting in Monaco on Friday. Many changes will take place in 2011, however, it is the new engine regulations, due in 2013, that will give the category its biggest shake up.
Currently F1 cars are powered by 2.4 litre normally aspirated V8s with an 18,000rpm rev limiter. But from 2013 we’ll be heading back to the good old turbo days with the new regs specifying the use of turbocharged 1.6 litre four cylinder engines capped to 12,000rpm. The new engines are expected to match current performance level while cutting fuel use by 35%.
A new limit on the total of engines available to each driver will also come into play in 2013. Each team can now give a driver a total of eight new engines per year. In 2013 that cap will be five engines, further reduced to just four in 2014 and beyond. Teams will be working hard for their money, won’t they!
The 2011 season will be seeing some changes, as well. The controversial team orders ban will be lifted. Well, kind of. Leaving a massive area of grey the FIA say teams can still be charged with bringing the sport into disrepute under Article 151c of the International Sporting Code.
Also new in 2011, teams must use each gearbox for a minimum of five consecutive races, instead of the four race minimum in 2010. In a move hoped to increase overtaking opportunities moveable rear wings have been approved.
And finally, from 2012 all team communications will be made available to television broadcasters. Directors are sure to have that “bleep” button at the ready.
The full list of changes can be read in the WMSC press release after the break.
