autoevolution
 

Mercedes and BMW Will Not Support KERS Ban

Mercedes and BMW are reportedly having second thoughts when it comes to banning the Kinetic Energy Recovery System from 2010 onwards. The two German constructors did not agree with Renault boss Flavio Briatore on the future ban, revealing the final decision within the Formula One Teams Association is yet to be taken.

As reported by Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport during the Bahrain weekend, Briatore announced that the FOTA have decided to make a proposal to the International Automobile Federation (FIA) to ban the unit for the near future. The reasons backing this decision would be the high costs involved in developing the technology further on.

In addition, the use of KERS has proved inefficiently so far, as KERS-powered car have been consistently outpaced during the first 4 rounds of the season.

Nevertheless, when asked about it last weekend, BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen insisted “I don't want to comment on that, but nothing is decided.” As rumored afterwards, McLaren Mercedes are also not a big fan of the idea.

The reason behind the two constructors' decision not to support the ban is that both of them are believed to submit a bid to becoming sole KERS suppliers starting 2010. The FIA has already announced plans to give a single manufacturer the possibility to develop the unit from 2010 onwards.

In order for the FOTA to settle for a final decision on the matter, all members of the organization would have to agree on the proposal. Only after, the FIA will be asked to take the proposal into consideration. FOTA's next meeting is scheduled on May 6th, in London.
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories