Ecclestone: “The F1s could have V6s with amplified sound”

The quieter noise of the new generation of F1 engines, the turbo V6s due to be introduced in 2014, could be artificially amplified according to Bernie Ecclestone. The F1 chief executive is worried about the loss of one of the most fascinating components of the premier category cars, namely the characteristic sound of the current V8s.

Motorists would also be worried, although the new regulation is welcomed by the manufacturers as it represents a step forward for F1 towards the modern automotive era.

Honda could return, as could Toyota, and the arrival of Volkswagen is not ruled out. But Ecclestone thinks the radical rule change is a risk for engine suppliers.

“The danger is that what happens with the manufacturers will happen: when they don't win or something doesn't work they withdraw,” he explained to Autoweek. “We need to make sure the engines are spinning at 16.000 rpm,” added Ecclestone.

“It's an accepted fact and we now know they won't get there. The petrol flow has been fixed so even if we have larger tanks we won't be able to reach that speed” he added.

Admitting that it is not his favorite choice, Ecclestone did not rule out artificially tweaking the sound of the V6s: "Maybe we can make them make the same noise as current engines," he explained.

Australian GP organizer Ron Walker said FIA president Jean Todt is aiming to have hybrid units in F1.