A cost cap for engine-supply deals to customer teams and a ban on windtunnel testing have been agreed by the members of the Formula 1 Strategy Group, AUTOSPORT has learned. Teams are spending around £15-20million per season for the 1.6-litre turbocharged V6s, which were introduced in 2014, compared to £7m during the V8 era. In the push to reduce costs, it has now been agreed by a majority vote that current-spec engines will cost €12m (£9m), while a one-year-old spec will cost €8m (£6m).
A majority also agreed to a ban on windtunnel testing, leading to a greater use of CFD, though the specifics have yet to be discussed. At present, both windtunnel and CFD use are limited. Furthermore, there will be a €2m (£1.5m) cap on gearboxes, which for some teams will represent a 50 per cent saving.
The proposals must now be approved by the F1 Commission, and subsequently, the FIA World Motor Sport Council, which meets on September 30 in Paris. Should they all go through, it is understood it could represent a cost-saving of between €20-25m (£14.5m-£18m). The Strategy Group comprises Ferrari, Mercedes, McLaren, Red Bull, Williams and Force India, with each team holding one vote. F1’s governing body the FIA and commercial rights holder FOM hold six votes apiece. It is understood Williams, Ferrari and Mercedes were against a ban on windtunnel testing, while McLaren, Red Bull and Force India voted in favour. Regarding gearbox cost-savings, only McLaren and Force India were in favour, with the FIA and FOM’s votes allowing the vote to be passed by majority.
