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F1: Frank Williams says KERS should be compulsory in 2011

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Khatir Soltani
From GMM

KERS should only return to the F1 grid next year if every car is fitted with the energy-recovery technology.

That is the claim of Sir Frank Williams, whose Grove based team is reportedly keen to see KERS make a comeback in 2011.

Williams has its own hybrid technology company, whose unique flywheel KERS unit was fitted to the Porsche 911 GT3 R at the recent Nurburgring 24 hour race.

FIA president Jean Todt is pushing hard for the F1 teams alliance FOTA to overturn its gentleman's ban on KERS.

KERS therefore already features in the technical regulations, but - if the FOTA ban is dropped - its use is voluntary.

"I am a strong supporter of the use of KERS. The automotive industry is working on reducing CO2 emissions, and for that reason alone formula one must take the lead. But it should be compulsory -- either we all use it, or we all do not," Williams is quoted by the Dutch publication formule1.nl.

Interestingly, the 68-year-old suggested that if Williams does use KERS in F1 next year, it would not be the flywheel system produced by Williams Hybrid Power.

"Our system works well and is being used by Porsche in long distance races. But it is bigger than the electrical systems. As we now drive with bigger fuel tanks, it no longer fits in a formula one car. It would make our car like a London double-decker!" Frank Williams explained.

Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada