• 2013 season

A new formula for 2013 emerges

ESPNF1 Staff
September 7, 2010 « No engine concerns - Alonso | »
Turbos have been banned in F1 since 1989 © Sutton Images
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Details of Formula One's radical new regulations for 2013 have begun to emerge, although they will not be confirmed until later this year.

The sport is set for a major overhaul to introduce more efficient engines, ground-effect aerodynamics and road-relevant technologies to F1 cars.

According to GP Week the teams have agreed to adopt 1.6 litre, 4 cylinder turbo engines, limited to 10,000 rpm and producing approximately 650bhp. The new engines will be mated to kinetic energy recovery systems, capable of producing a further 150bhp power boost. A fuel flow rate limit will also be introduced to ensure the engines are frugal compared to the current crop of 2.4 litre V8s.

To reduce drag engineers will be allowed to reintroduce ground-effect aerodynamics - pioneered in the 1970s but banned due to safety concerns. Sidepods will also be moved forwards to increase driver protection, while the size of the wheel rims is expected to increase in future years.

The basis of the 2013 rules are likely to be outlined in more detail after a forthcoming meeting of the World Motor Sport Council.

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