Renault supports Ferrari on the engine freeze issue
While the question of easing the current engine freeze is expected to be studied soon by the Formula 1 Commission, Renault has expressed support for this measure through Rémi Taffin, thus joining Ferrari in the pro camp, with Mercedes being against it.
Renault supports Ferrari in its desire to see the engine freeze partially lifted and believes that this will not result in an increase in costs, and therefore in the price paid by teams to have the 1.6L V6 Turbo engines currently used in F1.
The Formula 1 Commission will soon meet to study a proposal to ease restrictions related to engine development and allow modifications during the season. But while Mercedes is against it, Ferrari has clearly indicated its support, as has Renault, now through the voice of Rémi Taffin.
« In terms of development, [the engine] is being developed no matter what, so the team members, computers, and test benches will keep running. It’s fair to say that we will spend the money we have and use the resources available to us. If it’s about introducing [an upgrade] mid-season, then it’s just about a few parts, but I don’t think it will be a significant additional cost » explains the track operations director at Renault Sport F1 to Autosport.
But Taffin believes that costs could indeed soar dramatically if an engine manufacturer decides to launch several development programs simultaneously: « If you choose a plan 1 for the start of the season and a plan B from July, then it could become very expensive – because you have to double the supply of parts. »
