23/12/2008
NEWS STORY
In an interview with formula1.com, Max Mosley talked about some of the new rules being introduced next season, rules being introduced not only in an attempt to reduce cost but to improve the 'spectacle' of F1.
For as long as anyone can remember, there has been a major difference of opinion between those inside the paddock and those in the grandstands regarding overtaking, or the lack of it. Some of the new rules are aimed specifically aimed at increasing the amount of overtaking, and despite scepticism from some quarters the FIA President remains confident that fans will notice the difference.
"The 2009 aerodynamic regulations were developed by three of the top F1 engineers, aided by an extensive wind tunnel programme," said the Englishman. "I have no means of judging whether they have got it right, but if they have not, it will be surprising and disappointing. In addition, the KERS system, if fitted, will make a significant difference to overtaking by giving a car an 80hp boost for up to six seconds each lap."
Mosley's suggestion that a standard Cosworth engine be introduced appears to have had the desired effect with the manufacturers now agreeing to supply cheaper customers versions to rivals and new teams.
"This is still under discussion," admitted Mosley, "but I think we will end up with a frozen engine, regulated in such a way that independent teams can obtain inexpensive supplies. I think we ought to try to have at least one independent outside engine supplier, because of the risk that we will lose another manufacturer or even two.
"We need an independent engine supplier," he continued. "The plan, of course, was not so much a single engine, as for a single level of performance and a much cheaper engine. This will become increasingly necessary if we lose any more manufacturers."
The recent announcement by the FIA that it was seeking to 'equalise' engine performance, with particular reference to Renault, indicated that there was a flaw in the original 'freeze' regulations.
"The only problem with the original engine freeze was that in rectifying reliability problems, some teams appear to have gained somewhat in performance," said Mosley. "We simply intend to ensure that the sporting contest remains fair."
The most controversial change for 2009 is the introduction of KERS. However, with the system not compulsory in 2009, and a question mark over its effectiveness, there are concerns that it is merely a waste of money, the last thing the sport needs at this time.
"The purpose of KERS is to engage Formula One in research in an area which is relevant to road transport and society in general," said Mosley. "They have spent far less money on KERS than they waste on Formula One-specific aerodynamics and gearboxes which are irrelevant to the real world.
As for speculation that a standard KERS system could be introduced in 2010 or 2011, thereby making the in-house systems redundant after just one season, Mosley said: "KERS is not compulsory and it has always been open to the teams to work together on a common KERS."
The subject of customer cars remains a contentious issue, with Williams leading the fight against the return of 'off the peg' chassis.
"Personally, I have no problem with customer cars," said Mosley, founder of one of the most prominent customer car manufacturers, March. "Without them, F1 in the 1970s could not have flourished. I think the current problem is finding enough competitive teams, without worrying too much about where they get their cars."
Some of the recent proposals have come about following the formation of the Formula One Teams Association (FOTA), as the teams and manufacturers show a degree of unity never witnessed before in F1. Though pleased that the teams are now working together, Mosley remains sceptical as to whether it will last.
"I think the teams are more united now because there are outside pressures on Formula One," he said. "The real tests of unity will come when there is a significant difference of opinion or when vital interests are threatened."