Formula 1 manufacturers would work to balance the performance of any “out of kilter” engines from 2022, Red Bull claims.
Earlier this month, the teams agreed to freeze power unit development from next year due predominantly to Red Bull, who demanded the freeze to take production of their current Honda engines in-house.
One concern from those not named or partnered with Mercedes was that the inability to improve performance could effectively lock-in the advantage of some suppliers over others.
But, though it was not mentioned when the freeze was approved, Red Bull boss Christian Horner insists that wouldn’t be the case,
“Whilst there isn’t anything within the regulations, there is an agreement between the manufacturers that each have supported to the FIA to address it, in the event that a manufacturer is out of kilter,” he told select media this week.
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“[Obviously, it’s] not as ideal as a regulation, but it gives the FIA the necessary empowerment to bring the parties to the table.
“That’s important, and there is a clear understanding, particularly from within the top level of each of the OEMs.”
Of course, pretty much throughout the hybrid era, it has been Red Bull who have felt most disadvantaged by having an underpowered engine.
But while Honda is preparing to pull out, Horner isn’t concerned they’ll leave behind an inferior product.
“You have the introduction of the E10 fuel [in 2022], so Honda will continue to develop the engine around that fuel,” he said.
“They will hand over the engine effectively for the start of the freeze, and they will continue to assist during 2022 with the assembly of engines.
“Honda is continuing to operate as normal this year. They are committed to Formula 1 until the 31st of December, during which time they will be working with our fuel partner, ExxonMobil, which they’re currently doing, on the development of the E10 fuel, which is currently the biggest regulation change into next year.
“It’s business as usual very much for 2021, and then the engine will be handed over for pre-season testing this time next year.”