Idman.biz
The International Automobile Federation (FIA) is working on a "black and white" solution to definitively and unequivocally end the discussions surrounding controversial engine technology before the start of the Formula 1 season.
Idman.Biz reports, citing RacingNews, that according to information circulating during the winter break, some power unit manufacturers, particularly Mercedes High Performance Powertrains and Red Bull Powertrains, have developed a mechanism that allows them to operate at a compression ratio of 18:1, exceeding the 16:1 ratio stipulated in the technical regulations.
According to these claims, the compression ratio is measured in the pit lane (the area where cars are serviced during the race) at ambient temperature. However, there is no technology available to measure this indicator in real-time on the track. If metals that expand with increasing temperature are used, it may be possible to actually exceed the 16:1 compression ratio limit. According to calculations, this advantage translates to approximately 0.3 seconds per lap at the Albert Park circuit in Australia, and 17.4 seconds over the 58-lap race distance.
The main topic of discussion at the meeting between the FIA and engine manufacturers on January 22 was the methodology for measuring the compression ratio under high temperature conditions. Nikolas Tombazis, FIA's technical director for single-seater cars, stated that the meeting was not a "summit" and was not intended to make any major decisions.
According to Tombazis, the meeting was purely technical in nature and the participants discussed the issue as an engineering problem, rather than an exchange of opinions. He emphasized that the FIA absolutely does not want a situation to arise at the start of the season where teams interpret the rules differently.
Answering a question about whether the alleged compression ratio technology is a "loophole," Tombazis stated that the concept itself is controversial. According to him, it is too early to talk about a specific rule violation, and the main goal is to close the matter completely clearly and unequivocally before the first race.
At the same time, the possibility remains that teams will file protests if a solution is not found before the Australian Grand Prix. Tombazis noted that while the FIA is trying to provide clarity, it is not within the authority of the organization to decide whether or not any team will protest. The goal is to provide such transparency that there is no need for protest.
