From GMM
Toyota chiefs have effectively confirmed reports that a poor showing in 2009 will spell an end to the Japanese manufacturer's formula one foray.
At and before the recent launch of the new TF109 car, representatives of the Cologne based squad intimated that without a successful campaign this season, the Toyota board could echo Honda's decision to withdraw.
"We need a strong season," team president John Howett confirmed at the Algarve circuit on Tuesday, where Toyota and other teams are testing their new cars.
He said the team is under "increased scrutiny" from its bosses in Tokyo due to the world financial crisis.
"If we have a weak season we have no future," Howett added.
"This season is therefore very important for us. We need to reduce costs and demonstrate to Toyota that the investment in formula one is worthwhile," he added.
On the other hand, it is possible that Toyota will not use a KERS system at any time during the 2009 race season.
It is believed that two separate monocoques for the TF109 have been in production at the team's German factory; one for KERS, and one that does not accommodate the heavy technology.
Quoted by Auto Motor und Sport, team boss Tadashi Yamashina said: "The KERS for formula one has nothing to do with the hybrid cars on the street. So I think we would be forgiven for not using it."
He added that KERS would only be fitted to the TF109 at the grands prix if it is "safe and reliable".
photo:Toyota
Toyota chiefs have effectively confirmed reports that a poor showing in 2009 will spell an end to the Japanese manufacturer's formula one foray.
At and before the recent launch of the new TF109 car, representatives of the Cologne based squad intimated that without a successful campaign this season, the Toyota board could echo Honda's decision to withdraw.
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"We need a strong season," team president John Howett confirmed at the Algarve circuit on Tuesday, where Toyota and other teams are testing their new cars.
He said the team is under "increased scrutiny" from its bosses in Tokyo due to the world financial crisis.
"If we have a weak season we have no future," Howett added.
"This season is therefore very important for us. We need to reduce costs and demonstrate to Toyota that the investment in formula one is worthwhile," he added.
On the other hand, it is possible that Toyota will not use a KERS system at any time during the 2009 race season.
It is believed that two separate monocoques for the TF109 have been in production at the team's German factory; one for KERS, and one that does not accommodate the heavy technology.
Quoted by Auto Motor und Sport, team boss Tadashi Yamashina said: "The KERS for formula one has nothing to do with the hybrid cars on the street. So I think we would be forgiven for not using it."
He added that KERS would only be fitted to the TF109 at the grands prix if it is "safe and reliable".
photo:Toyota