“You've got to get on with it and make up our minds – it must be imminent. It's a technical choice and it requires a thorough vetting and consideration period by Patrick (Head) and Sam (Michael) plus some negotiations by Adam (Parr) once it's decided. We have to hurry up because we don't want to get behind on designing our car,” said Williams, according to British publication Autosport.
Until this year, the Grove based team had partnered Japanese engine manufacturer Toyota in the Formula One series. However, the lack of competitiveness from their engines pushed Williams into considering other options for the upcoming season.
As confirmed by Toyota's team president John Howett, Williams did not express their will to continue their current engine commitment with the Japanese manufacturer. In recent weeks, Williams was linked with at least 3 engine makers: independent British manufacturer Cosworth (whom they'd partnered between 2005 and 2006), Renault (former partners in the mid and late '90s) and even Mercedes.
Although Renault seems to have the best chances of sealing another engine partnership in the series with Williams F1, the Cosworth option has not been neglected by the team boss. While reckoning that the idea of joining hands with the French manufacturer – with whom the team had immense success in the 90s – is very exciting, Williams would also be in favor of a Cosworth partnership.
“Cosworth is an independent company. The warmth that a manufacturer's engine provides is a useful feeling,” added Williams.
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