he threat of a standard F1 engine has been averted as teams agreed to other cost-cutting measures in relation to the power units and that in-season testing in 2009 is banned.
From 2009 the following measures have been implemented:
Engine
- Engine life to be doubled. Each driver will use a maximum of eight engines for the season plus four for testing (thus 20 per team)
- Limit of 18,000 rpm
- The three-race lifespan rule voted on 5 November remains in force
- Cost of engines to independent teams will be approximately 50% of 2008 prices.
- Unanimous agreement was reached on a list of proposed changes to the Renault engine for 2009; all other engines will remain unchanged. Comparative testing will not be necessary
Testing
- No in-season testing except during race weekend during scheduled practice
Aerodynamic research
- No wind tunnel exceeding 60% scale and 50 metres/sec to be used after 1 January 2009
- A formula to balance wind tunnel-based research against CFD research, if agreed between the teams, will be proposed to the FIA
Factory activity
- Factory closures for six weeks per year, to accord with local laws
Race weekend
- Manpower to be reduced by means of a number of measures, including sharing information on tyres and fuel to eliminate the need for "spotters"
Sporting spectacle
- Market research is being conducted to gauge the public reaction to a number of new ideas, including possible changes to qualifying and a proposal for the substitution of medals for points for the drivers. Proposals will be submitted to the FIA when the results of the market research are known.
From 2010 the following measures will be implemented:
Power train
- Engines will be available to the independent teams for less than €5 million per team per season. These will either come from an independent supplier or be supplied by the manufacturer teams backed by guarantees of continuity. If an independent supplier, the deal will be signed no later than 20 December 2008.
- This same engine will continue to be used in 2011 and 2012 (thus no new engine for 2011).
- Subject to confirmation of practicability, the same transmission will be used by all teams
Chassis
- A list of all elements of the chassis will be prepared and a decision taken in respect of each element as to whether or not it will remain a performance differentiator (competitive element).
- Some elements which remain performance differentiators will be homologated for the season
- Some elements will remain performance differentiators, but use inexpensive materials
Race weekend
- Standardised radio and telemetry systems
- Ban on tyre warmers
- Ban on mechanical purging of tyres
- Ban on refueling
- Possible reduction in race distance or duration (proposal to follow market research)
if you know what I mean.
However, I'm loving those new sidepods though, lovely shape 👍
