22/07/2012
NEWS STORY
Mat Coch writes:
Red Bull has been referred to the stewards ahead of today's German Grand Prix for anomalies with its engines.
A statement distributed by the FIA to the media reads:
"Having examined the engine base torque map of car numbers 01 and 02 it became apparent that the maximum torque output of both engines is significantly less in the mid rpm range than previously seen for these engines at other Events.
"In my opinion this is therefore in breach of Article 5.5.3 of the 2012 Formula One Technical Regulations as the engines are able to deliver more torque at a given engine speed in the mid rpm range.
"Furthermore this new torque map will artificially alter the aerodynamic characteristics of both cars which is also in contravention of TD 036-11."
Article 5.5.3 of the Technical Regulations states:
"The maximum accelerator pedal travel position must correspond to an engine torque demand equal to or greater than the maximum engine torque at the measured engine speed.
"The minimum accelerator pedal travel position must correspond to an engine torque demand equal to or lower than 0Nm."
It is unclear at this early stage what the announcement will mean for both Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber, and if there will be any penalty applied.
More to follow.