Wolff: better sounding engines but with the best technology

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Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff says that sound and volume must be a primary concern for those devising the sport's future engine platform.

As the sport designs its technical future beyond 2020, engine rules are at the forefront of its work with an emphasis on cost and increased simplicity.

It's likely a relevant link with hybrid technology will be retained, but Wolff insists that in its quest to cater to the fans, F1 must offer a better sounding power unit.

"Why do people say 'rev the engine and go, go go'?" said Wolff.

"With everything going hybrid on the road, going efficient, and going autonomous, watching racing cars is still an audio-visual exercise.

"You can see the cars going fast, but the sound is very important. It gives us the perception of power and speed.

"I think maybe with the current generation of engines we have forgotten to take care about this point.

"Having said that, I don't think it is completely bad. But with 2020, when we do the new engines, quality of sound should be an essential part. It is very important."

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While he views the current involvement of F1's four manufacturers as positive, Wolff agrees that allowing an affordable access to independent engine suppliers would be constructive.

"Will an independent engine supplier ever be competitive against OEM structures that have invested billions over the years to be where they are? I am not sure," said Wolff.

"But I think if we create a new formula early enough, it will allow independent engine suppliers to look at the concept, and if they find sponsors or investors then this can be a formula that works.

"I am 110 percent convinced that F1 needs to be a technology formula – that bolting in an eight -cylinder naturally aspirated engine is not the way we should go because F1 would lose its DNA.

"It needs to be the most powerful, the fastest possible engine and where the best technology goes."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.