FIA pushing for engine standardization in 2010

Showing its seriousness on the issue of spiraling costs, the FIA has even opened a tender process for the appointment of a third party supplier of engines and transmission systems.

If the FIA gets their way, this would mean that every car that lines up on the grid would be using the same engine and powertrain system.

While the plan in theory would lead to substantial savings (great for small teams which can't muster an enormous budget), it still begs the question: Isn't this a sport wherein each team tries to push technological advancements (especially engine-wise) as far as they can go? It costs money, but this is the very essence of the sport.

Despite fears of a backlash against this plan, F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone doesn't think any teams will drop out of the series. To Mr. Ecclestone, this plan is what could help keep the sport going within a playing field that has just gotten more expensive over the years. Smaller teams that are not backed by manufacturers face the most risk of having to drop out due to the lack of funds.

For those small teams that are perpetually backmarkers, this could be the shot in the arm they need. With a standardized engine/powertrain package, there is a bigger possibility that their cars could challenge for a place on the podium.

It's hard to imagine the top teams going ahead and adopting this proposal. What's likely to happen is that the FIA will have to come up with a "diluted" version of this plan, which would be acceptable to the teams.

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Credits: JRC