Engine development frozen for 10 years

During today's World Motor Sport Council at Paris, it was decided that there will be a freeze on engine development for a period of ten years starting from 2008. The engine freeze was introduced before the start of the 2007 season and was expected to remain until a more radical overhaul of the engine regulations was set, but now the engine freeze will continue for another 10 years.

The WMSC decided: "There will be a total freeze on engine development for a period of 10 years, starting from 2008. A change can be made after five years but only with the unanimous agreement of all stakeholders and following a further two-year notice period. Total freeze means that there will be no exceptions for development of certain parts of the engine, as is the case under the current regulations."

While previously there were talks and speculation about a more economical engine formula with smaller capacity and possibly the reintroduction of turbocharging. The decision shelves all these possibilities but could allow a gradual introduction or regenerative braking and other energy efficient technologies.