Renault suggests F1 engine freeze

Renault has put forward a motion to freeze Formula 1 engine development at the end of 2018 ahead of new technical regulations being introduced in 2021.

F1 is currently in a state of limbo as discussions surrounding its future continue behind the scenes, key among them a review of the current engine formula.

The sport’s owners, Liberty Media, are set to reveal their blueprint for the future to teams at the Bahrain Grand Prix next weekend, outlining proposed changes to the sport’s technical, sporting and business aspects.

In anticipation of a revised engine formula, with suggestions F1 will drop the MGU-H hybrid component from the power units, Renault boss Cyril Abiteboul has suggested current engines be frozen to allow manufacturers to begin work on the new formula.

“The one thing we will not want to do is to have the burden of developing two engines in parallel,” Abiteboul told Autosport.

“That’s one thing that is sure, but it’s too early to talk about the technicalities of the way to achieve that.

“There are two things basically in our key message and our position at Renault. First before committing to a regulation, we need to understand the bigger picture.

“And secondly we don’t see it’s acceptable or sustainable to have to work on two engines in parallel at the same time, for the simple reason that if there was to be a new entrant, which is what we wish, he will have a fantastic advantage in being able to focus on the future, and not to have to worry about the present and the customers, and so and so forth.

“I’m just discussing principles which I think are logical, and fair for the next steps.”

Renault is one of four engine manufacturers currently in F1, though Ferrari and Mercedes have both threatened to leave the sport should the 2021 regulations not be to their liking.

The proposed 2021 introduction of new regulations coincides with the expiry of current technical and commercial deals between the sport and teams.