Renault's Abiteboul: 'Opinions on 2021 engine still diverge'

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Renault Sport F1 boss Cyril Abiteboul says Formula 1 is nowhere near reaching a consensus on the sport's 2021 engine format as discussions continue.

F1 sporting manager Ross Brawn tabled back in November a draft engine proposal for the future, which suggested a less sophisticated and cheaper power unit which would hopefully entice independent manufacturers to join F1 in three years time.

The current proposition retains the 1.6-litre V6 hybrid architecture, but allows an increase in power to 3000rpm. The rules would also mean an end to the problematic MGU-H in favour of more kinetic energy recovery.

The concept received mixed reactions from Formula 1 teams, with Ferrari voicing its opposition in no uncertain terms while Mercedes' Toto Wolff also expressed caution.

Renault's power deficit? It's Briatore's fault, says Abiteboul

Renault's stance is one which pretty much advocates a status quo. Asked if any progress had recently been achieved on the engine front, Cyril Abiteboul said most teams were still at odds with the initial proposition.

"No, there's nothing new. The discussions continue and opinions still diverge," the French manager told Auto Hebdo.

"We need to improve the current engine which has a few things wrong with it. More noise, and more performance.

"Let's not limit its potential with fuel consumption, component mileage and engine penalties."

"But above all, let's keep the current engine as a basis for the future. There's no need for a 2021 revolution, and nobody wants it."

Abiteboul isn't sure that stripping the future engine of its MGU-H technology is a good idea, despite the much maligned component causing huge reliability issues for Renault in 2017.

"From today's perspective I have to say I don't like MGU-H," Abiteboul said back in November.

"But by 2020 we will have our problem under control.

"Then it will be cheaper for the manufacturers and the customers, and yet everything will start again at zero with a new engine concept," he added.

"And there will again be manufacturers who will find the right and the wrong solutions, dividing the field into two groups again. Therefore, I see no reason to deviate from the existing concept."

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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.