Well-known British engine maker Cosworth has revealed “verbal agreements” to supply Formula 1 teams when the revised engine formula is introduced in 2021.
In an interview with Motorsport.com, CEO Hal Reisiger confirmed the company, which left F1 at the end of the V8 era in 2013, is taking part in talks between the sport’s bosses, the FIA and other manufacturers both current and potential to decide the new regulations and have already weighed up the viability of a return to the pinnacle of motorsport.
“I think that we’ve got sufficient support from the existing teams, and we’ve had discussions with some, that enable us to make the commitment to proceed,” Reisiger confirmed
“More teams committed for a longer term, is always better. But we have some verbal agreements to partner with some existing and future teams that would enable us to be a sustainable engine partner.”
The new engine formula, thought to be a retention of the current 1.6-litre V6 but with twin turbos and a larger pre-2014 style KERS to replace the current hybrid, is expected to be introduced in 2021, after the current Concorde Agreement expires, however, though time would appear to be on their side, the Cosworth boss admitted a final decision does need to be made by as soon as possible.
“We would typically start in 2018. I know there is some discussion about moving it ahead by a year, and that would mean working really soon,” he claimed.
“I think one of our unique capabilities is on the LMP1 engine, we went from concept to dyno in 11 months. We happen to be very nimble when it comes to that type of capability. I don’t know there are that many companies that can move that fast, but we have that.”
Simplifying and reducing the costs of engines have been two of the key criteria managing director of motorsport, Ross Brawn has been looking to meet with the next generation engine and the proposed removal of the MGU-H part of the Energy Recovery System is being welcomed by Reisiger as he discussed the discussions taking place.
“We appreciate being involved in the process,” he said. “We think we are well suited to come back into F1 if the engine regulations should change, and the compelling change has to be with the heat energy recovery [from the turbo] – because that is the most expensive and time-consuming element.
“If F1 wants a new engine supplier for 2021 there will have to be some changes on that front. We have been invited to participate in the working committees which we are happy to do, so we are engaged in the process and looking forward to it.”
One concern some may have is the ability enter F1 and immediately be competitive against the established names, as Honda has failed to do. Cosworth though is confident they can match the likes of Mercedes and Ferrari insisting they would not return if they thought they could not do so.
“Yes. It is important not only for the teams that we would serve but for our own brand that we should not get involved in it if we cannot be competitive,” Reisiger said.
“We have a great historic brand, we want to protect our brand as much as we want to help people win races, but we do think we can do it.”
