Hybrid Turbos for F1

FIA president, Max Mosley, is considering introducing turbo boosters into Formula 1, The Guardian has reported. According to the newspaper, Mr Mosely is in discussion with “several of the car makers.” The idea is to introduce energy retention systems, like those used in hybrid vehicles like the Toyota Prius.

In particular he is said to be suggesting that designers should adopt regenerative braking systems. These use the heat generated under hard braking as a way of powering batteries that could give drivers an instant extra 60 horsepower for around five seconds, improving the racing by enhancing overtaking opportunities. Turbo systems were last used in 1988 before they were banned by a rule change.
McLaren CEO, Martin Whitmarsh, is reported to have welcomed the suggestion. “It is the sort of technical challenge which we would be keen to undertake,” he said. “It’s certainly something we would like to get stuck in with.”

The news follows an FIA survey of 93,000 fans worldwide and consultations with the car makers, which indicated the importance of the sport having a high technology dimension. “This concept has had an enthusiastic response from the car makers,” said Max Mosley. “We want to get the emphasis away from hidden technology, whereas this would have direct relevance.”

Meanwhile, Mercedes boss Norbert Haug has apologised to Kimi Raikkonen after an engine failure hindered the McLaren driver’s world title challenge at Silverstone. For the second successive weekend, the Mercedes engine cost the McLaren star a 10-place penalty on the starting grid.

“He lost another two points to Fernando Alonso in the championship, and without the engine change, he could’ve achieved a better result. I am sorry for that, and we will try even harder,” said Mr Haug.