Williams team principal James Vowles has confirmed that there are several options on the table to address the energy management issues in Formula 1. During the Australian Grand Prix, the problems became clearly visible as drivers had to get used to the new way of racing. Under the new regulations, intensive attention must now be paid to the battery during races. “There are about four or five proposals on the table,” Vowles reveals.
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Under the new Formula 1 rules, the split between the battery and the internal combustion engine is 50/50. As a result, overtaking in many cases becomes a matter of who can deploy the most energy. This led to criticism not only from drivers but also from fans. Some even speak of ‘artificial racing.’ However, James Vowles emphasizes that Formula 1 would be better off waiting with major adjustments until after the Chinese Grand Prix. “Let’s finish the race first, including a sprint race, and then actively look at how we can improve the rules,” the Williams team principal stated in the Australian paddock.
‘Right changes’
Although Vowles is critical, he sees opportunities to improve the new regulations. “When you’re trackside, they’re still Formula 1 cars and we’re still racing in Formula 1. Those are the facts. We’re probably still a bit tight on energy and Albert Park is one of the three worst circuits for this. In Shanghai, it could be just as difficult. At the Suzuka circuit, for example, it will be less of a problem. But regardless of that: is this what we want to show as a sport? No. We want it to get to a slightly better place. Can we improve it? Yes,” said the Briton.
Vowles did not want to explain in detail what those improvements look like. “There are about four or five different proposals on the table. We’re going to look at the next race first to see what works and what doesn’t. I’m sure we’ll come together as a sport and implement the right changes,” the Williams team principal concluded.
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‘Fun to watch’
In addition to the battery, Vowles says the internal combustion engine can also be looked at. “There are things we can do with the engine. The only question is how far we want to go with that. The worst thing we can do is change something and then make it even worse. We must therefore be sure that the sport really benefits from it.”
Vowles also acknowledges that the current rules may be too complex. “Have we made it too complicated? Yes, if we’re honest, we have. But do we still have a Formula 1 product? I think so. We just have to make sure that what we deliver is still a sport – and especially one that is fun to watch,” he emphasized.
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