• Rules and regulations

Renault boss backs 2013 engine change

ESPNF1 Staff
April 1, 2011
Renault is looking ahead to 2013 © Sutton Images
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Renault's technical boss Rob White has dismissed fears Formula One's current engine roar could become a GP3-style buzz when the regulations change dramatically in 2013.

Some purists have scoffed at the noise of the four-cylinder Renault engines mounted in the GP3 single seaters, but in 2013 F1 cars are set to be powered by turbo four-cylinder power plants in line with a 'greener' image for the sport. Bernie Ecclestone has already expressed his opposition to the new rules on the basis of the engine note, but White insists the F1 cars of 2013 will still make noise.

"Motorcycle engines are also at 12,000rpm and sound good," White said. "We are already working on the [2013] engine. There will be new manufacturers come into formula one with a new engine format."

Renault may also be pleased to see the end of the current development 'freeze' of the 2.4 litre V8 era, with customers Red Bull constantly complaining they are down on power.

"We do not have the most powerful engine," admitted White, "but there are other things with the engine that play a role in the lap time. For example, the driveability. We have worked hard to perfect the engine characteristics for the drivers."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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