Mercedes 2014 engine gets the thumbs up

11/01/2013

Initial reaction to the Mercedes 2014 turbo engine is that while not as raucous as the current unit it still smells "sweet" and fans wont be left disappointed.

The German manufacturer invited the media to its Brixworth HQ today, however, understandably security was tight with mobile phones temporarily confiscated in order that pictures could not be taken and recording devices switched off in order that the sound could not be recorded.

Mercedes is the first to unveil the controversial new for 2014 engine, a season which sees one of the biggest changes to the sport in recent years.

As Formula One seeks greener credentials out go the 2.4 litre V8s, which rev up to 18,000 rpm producing 750 horsepower, and in come 1.6 litre V6 turbos which rev to 15,000 rpm. Meanwhile, the Kinetic Engine Recovery System (KERS) is ditched in favour of a Kinetic and Energy Recovery System (ERS).

Before seeing the engine in the flesh, the journos were shown a recording of the new unit on a simulation lap of the fastest track on the calendar, the Autodromo Nazionale Monza, which effectively killed off fears that the sound of the new powerplants will turn off race fans.

"It's a little bit lower in terms of decibels because of the turbocharger, but it's a sweet sound," said Mercedes-Benz HighPerformanceEngines managing director Andy Cowell, according to Reuters.

"It put a big smile on my face," he continued. "I think the sound is going to be pleasant. The volume is a little bit lower but I don't think there are going to be any problems with the direction we're going."

In 2014, drivers will be limited to five engines a season rather than the current eight, while the reduction of the fuel allowance from 150kg to 100kg is aimed at making the sport far more fuel efficient. Compared to KERS, ERS will deliver twice the power and harvest five times the energy.

"There will be a new quality to the racing," said Cowell. "It will edge towards a thinking drivers' formula to get the most from the car and the available fuel energy.

"The engines will deliver more torque, especially on the corner exit. Cars with more power than grip coming out of the corners. That is something we all enjoy."