Red Bull engine map under investigation, and allowed
Red Bull Racing is yet again under investigation after FIA Formula 1 technical delegate Jo Bauer found an irregularity in Red Bull's engine maps. While Bauer himselfs believes the new map is against the regulations, the matter has been forwarded to the stewards to decide on the matter.
The statement reveals that not only does the FIA believe it is against the regulations to have the engine produce less torque at mid-range, it is also likely that the map, present on both Red Bull Racing cars could create an aerodynamic advantage for the diffuser. It is exactly this aerodynamic influence of exgine exhausts that the FIA tried to clamp down on with the modified exhaust regulations in effect since the beginning of the season.
"Having examined the engine base torque map of car numbers 01 and 02 it became apparent that the maximum torque output of both engines is significantly less in the mid rpm range than previously seen at other events," said Bauer in the statement.
"In my opinion this is therefore in breach of article 5.5.3 of the 2012 Formula 1 technical regulations as the engines are able to deliver more torque at a given engine speed in the mid rpm range.
"Furthermore this new torque map will artificially alter the aerodynamic characteristics of both cars which is also in contravention of TD 036-11. I am referring this matter to the stewards."
UPDATE: The stewards have decided that RBR's new engine map is well within the rules and hence allowed to race at Hockenheim as well as at the upcoming races.
“The stewards received a report from the FIA Technical Delegate, along with specific ECU data from Red Bull Racing Cars 1 and 2. The Stewards met with the team representatives and the representative of the engine supplier Renault.
“While the stewards do not accept all the arguments of the team, they however conclude that as the regulation is written, the map presented does not breach the text of Art. 5.5.3 of the Formula One Technical Regulations and therefore decided to take no action.”
