Formula One news

Increase the weight of cars, says Theissen

BMW Motorsport Director, Dr. Mario Theissen, believes the minimum weight of Formula 1 cars should be increased within the next few years so as to improve the overall balance of the cars.

Theissen, who hopes to see BMW fighting for the title this season, explained how the introduction of the KERS device could hinder good balance of the cars: "The system adds weight to the car and this has an impact on the car's weight distribution and tyre wear, so we'll have to make a decision on whether to use KERS race-by-race, driver-by-driver."

On top of this, heavier drivers could also find themselves at a disadvantage: "The minimum weight of 605 kilograms, stipulated in the sporting regulations for the cars, includes the weight of the driver," Dr. Theissen continued. To make up the difference in weight, additional ballast is used until the car weighs the determined amount however, with a heavier driver, less ballast is required and therefore the overall balance of the car can vary as a result.

"Traditionally, this means heavier drivers have been at a disadvantage," explained Theissen. "The weight of KERS will further reduce how much ballast is required, so in order to prevent F1 from becoming a jockeys competition we are pushing for an increase of the minimum weight in the future."

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