FIA approved turbo 4cylinder engine 1.6l, but hinted delay beyond 2013

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FIA has released details of regulation changes which could come into force for the 2013 season following a World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) meeting in Barcelona on Friday, June 03rd.

But FIA also revealed that a vote could be taken to change the timing of their introduction. This means that introduction of Turbo 4clyinder engines 1.6litre could be postponed beyond 2013.

Teams and engine suppliers--along with commercial czar Bernie Ecclestone--have in recent weeks made their opposition to the new engine formula more than clear.

The FIA now says that there could be a World Motor Sport Council vote this month to delay the new engines, stating that, "in consultation with the main stakeholders, and following the outcome of this consultation, a fax vote by the WMSC could be considered by June 30 at the latest to redefine the implementation date of these technical regulations."

Meanwhile, as suggested previously, there won't be a dramatic change to the aerodynamic rules after all, with the existing 2011 package forming the basis of the 2013 regulations--but with an attempt to improve fuel efficiency.

The FIA believes that combined with the new powertrain change, the 2013 revisions will deliver a 35 percent reduction in fuel consumption.

As of now, rules have been stated for 2013. 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.



The statement listed the rules for 2013 as follows:

- 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 per cent 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