FIA takes new step towards eco-fuel: 'First prototype has been sent'

Formula 1 has started testing ecological fuel. The first tests have been sent to the four engine manufacturers in Formula 1. According to Gilles Simon, head of engines at the FIA, these tests are a good preparation for 2025, when F1 will switch completely to ecological fuel.

"We developed a prototype because we wanted to explore the different possibilities that are currently on the market. The current prototype is far from perfect, but it is equivalent to the physical regulations for a Formula One engine. Current engines run on this fuel," Simon explained in conversation with Auto, Motor und Sport.

Testing is important

According to the Italian, there were several steps that had to be taken for the prototype. "First of all, the aim was to make it available as soon as possible at a normal price. The whole process involved is known to us." The first prototype brought out by the FIA is available to every engine supplier. "All have received 200 litres."

Honda, Mercedes, Ferrari and Renault are now given time to test with the new fuel and provide feedback. "In one month we expect those results. We want to wait for all four suppliers, so also from Honda. That has to come from Japan, so it will take some time."

FIA has the time

According to Simon, there is a lot that needs to be done after that. "We expect a small loss in power because these engines are not used to the fuel. How much that loss is will be difficult to estimate. It will not be a lot. We are not a fuel supplier ourselves and we have the time until 2025 to arrange everything around the engine and the fuel," the FIA engine boss concluded.