Cosworth Engines to Eat More Fuel in 2010

Williams' Patrick Head denied suggestions that the teams fitted with Cosworth engines in 2010 will have an upper hand in the championship. Although the 2006-based power plants will likely benefit from a 2000 rpm boost next season, the Brit argued that it will need more fuel as compared to the already existing F1 units.

The FIA proceeded to signing a deal with the British engine manufacturer for a low-cost power plant for 2010 last year. While agreed upon by the members of the ruling body, Cosworth will use the 2.4 litre V8 that previously powered the 2006 Williams F1 car. That V8 was limited at 20,000 rpm, unlike the current F1 units limited at 18,000 rpm.

Consequently, the additional rpm would translate into improved performances on track. However, as argued by Head, the old engines will eat up more fuel during the race and, considering the refueling ban set by the FIA for 2010, that would cause the cars to lose more than half of second per lap.

“The (2006) Cosworth engine uses clearly more fuel than the current engines. The cars will have to carry 15 kilograms more (fuel) for a race distance. That means half a second on the lap time and higher tire wear,” argued Head, as reported by Germany's Auto Motor und Sport.

The teams that will use Cosworth power in 2010 are the newly entrants US F1, Manor Grand Prix (likely to change its name into something more Virgin-related) and Campos Grand Prix. In addition, there are 2 other teams that are due to announce their 2010 engine partners soon, Red Bull Racing and Toro Rosso. The former are linked with a Mercedes switch next year, while Toro Rosso are likely to continue with Ferrari for another season.

The FIA and the FOTA are yet to establish a rev limit for the Cosworth power plants. On the one hand, the ruling body is suggesting an unlimited rev for it – as they are already 4 years old – while on the other, the FOTA representatives are worried about a potential power boost for the Cosworth-powered cars in 2010.