It’s been 21 years since turbochargers were banned from Formula One, back then cars were the 1100hp barrier and with the incredible power-to-weight ratios, the cars then, believed to be the most powerful ever in motorsports, were able to produce speeds and g’s that are unimaginable under today’s configurations. So turbochargers are way more fun and if a new report that emerged on the internet is to be believed, turbo’s are to make a comeback by 2013.
According to the report, the return of turbo’s is more in line with being environmentally friendly and that teams and engine manufacturers are already in discussion to return to the 1.5-liter formula complete with turbo’s or “boosters” as some may know them as.
Such a move will also open the doors to other manufacturers entering Formula One with Audi being the first to come to mind. This will also create opportunities for sponsors that would like to associate themselves with Formula One but were unable to due to the “environmentally unfriendliness” of the sport, to make in roads into the sport and possibly solve the financial crisis that has plagued some teams.
Sources are claiming that one of the ideas that is currently being discussed for 2013 is for a 1.5-liter, straight-four, turbocharged engines using half as much fuel as currently needed but with the possibility of KERS returning to provide the extra boost. The idea was previously rejected by the teams before a 180 degree turnaround.
So far nothing has been confirmed and a industry insider admitted “a number of possible engine configurations are being looked at but all at a sensitive stage. There is a big push for current units to remain for cost reasons but the FIA is keen on a step change in technology.”
So the return of turbo’s has nothing to do with the need for more power and speed but we can accept being environmentally friendly as long as the sport doesn’t loose its edge and competitiveness. Not like it’s great right now but here’s hoping all that will change, one thing’s for sure though, we can soon say good-bye to the glorious roar of a V8, just like we did with the orgasmic scream of the previous V10 units.
Source: Pitpass
