The introduction of the controversial 1.6-litre, four cylinder turbo engines in Formula 1 in 2013 could be delayed, as stated in the FIA press release issued after the meeting of the World Council of Motor Sport.
The World Motor Sport Council approved the new rules in Barcelona on Friday, which include aerodynamic regulations based on those currently in use alongside modifications designed to achieve the target of a 35 per cent reduction in fuel consumption.
But the press release says the FIA does allow for the possibility of the timing of the rules' introduction to be changed by vote.
Such a vote would be held by the World Council, but only if F1's stakeholders, which includes the teams and engine manufacturers, demand it.
"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,” says the press release.
Although the FIA approved the 2013 engine regulations last December, certain engine suppliers, such as Ferrari and Cosworth have raised concerns about the cost of developing these new power units and the complex and extensive energy management and energy recovery systems (now known as ERS).
At the Turkish Grand Prix, FIA president Jean Todt insisted that the new powerplants would be introduced, although he did allow for a change in policy if some new evidence were to be presented.
The World Motor Sport Council approved the new rules in Barcelona on Friday, which include aerodynamic regulations based on those currently in use alongside modifications designed to achieve the target of a 35 per cent reduction in fuel consumption.
 |
| Ferrari's current 2.4-litre V8 engine. (Photo: WRI2) |
But the press release says the FIA does allow for the possibility of the timing of the rules' introduction to be changed by vote.
Such a vote would be held by the World Council, but only if F1's stakeholders, which includes the teams and engine manufacturers, demand it.
"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,” says the press release.
Although the FIA approved the 2013 engine regulations last December, certain engine suppliers, such as Ferrari and Cosworth have raised concerns about the cost of developing these new power units and the complex and extensive energy management and energy recovery systems (now known as ERS).
At the Turkish Grand Prix, FIA president Jean Todt insisted that the new powerplants would be introduced, although he did allow for a change in policy if some new evidence were to be presented.