Efficiency isn’t just a concern among average motorists, it’s also important in racing. That’s why Volkswagen is developing an all-new ultra efficiency “world engine” to help it complete in Formula One racing.
Volkswagen reportedly wants to supply F1 with a turbocharged small-displacement, four-cylinder engine that could also be modified for touring cars, rallying and other disciplines – hence the “world engine” designation. Its small size will help provide improved efficiency over current V8 designs.
“It is clear that we are looking at formula one,” Hans-Joachim Stuck, a former grand prix driver and now the motor sport representative of the company, told Sport Bild magazine. “We are waiting for the FIA’s decision in respect of the use of a world engine for F1. If there is, we will discuss whether to build it for formula one.”
Racing remains important for many auto manufactures, from Ferrari to Mercedes to Renault. But in recent years, motorsports involvement has come at a significant cost, which fewer and fewer brands seem able or willing to spend. However, with this new engine, VW could supply a single engine used across various motorsport disciplines, cutting development costs and building up reliability and engineering research in the process.
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