Mercedes-Benz have released the first images of its new V6 1.6 litre turbo unit which will power its own cars and four others in 2014.
The German company believes the ‘power unit’ will put the “motor back in motorsport” and expects more exciting racing as a result.
Whilst the sound of the engine has been the main concern, engineers at its engine facility in Brixworth are confident fans will enjoy the new ‘roar’ which, whilst quieter, is still impressive despite a drop in maximum RPM from 18,000 to 15,000.
“The engines are going to be loud, but I think sweet sounding,” Andy Cowell, managing director of Mercedes-Benz High Performance Engines, told SportingLife.
“The frequency will be higher and, with the turbocharger running at 125,000rpm, they will be loud. When you are stood next to it on the dyno it is not quiet and you need ear defenders.”
The engine will also change the racing, with more torque being delivered to the rear of the car, fans can expect more sliding as the cars hit the power exiting a corner.
This will require a change to the tyre construction in future as the increase in sliding will increase the degradation levels.
The entire package, known as the ‘power unit’ not only includes the engine, but ERS (Energy Recovery System), the battery unit and the turbo.
The power output of the current KERS units produce 80bhp for just 6.7 seconds. The new ERS unit will produce 161bhp – bringing the total power output to 750bhp, the same as the current engines – for 33.3 seconds per lap.
This is achieved by harvesting energy from the turbo and a heat converter, storing up to 10 times as much as the current systems.
Drivers will be allowed a maximum of five units before incurring a penalty – compared to eight at present. This will mean a doubling of mileage per unit from some 2,000km to 4,000km.
Fuel efficieny will also be key, with drivers allowed to start the race with just 100kg of fuel, a 33% reduction on the current regulations which allow a maximum of 150kg.
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