Engine makers confident of compromise

A majority of teams in a recent Sporting Working Group meeting voted against plans for an engine freeze in the sport from 2008, but the FIA responded by insisting that they would not back down in plans for the cost-cutting measure.

The FIA made it clear that the teams had already committed to a series that featured engine homologation.

That move appeared to leave the manufacturers and the sport's governing body further apart than ever in their future plans for the sport, just days after the five members of the Grand Prix Manufacturers' Association had committed their future.

However, following recent talks between themselves about engine rules, the carmakers are hopeful that a fresh proposal that is planned to be put to the FIA this weekend will pave the way for an agreement that will end the recent arguments.

Crucially, it appears to have the backing of Ferrari, who voted against the idea of dropping the engine freeze at the SWG meeting.

Speaking to this week's Autosport, BMW motorsport director Mario Theissen said he believes plans for part-homologation, part engine number cap would be accepted by the FIA.

"I think we are not far from each other," he said. "All the manufacturers are discussing a reduced-cost engine formula which includes homologation of components of various periods of time.

"It is a well-balanced proposal that should achieve the cost-cutting targets by freezing some areas. We are about to finalise this concept and we hope to present a proposal to the FIA at the Monaco weekend.

"The important thing is that it is a proposal of all the engine manufacturers including Ferrari and Cosworth. I think it would achieve the FIA's targets without sacrificing the technology too much."

Mercedes motorsport boss Norbert Haug backed Theissen's optimism about the fresh deal.

"Collectively the manufacturers have a better idea, which is better for the sport and saves more money," he said.

The teams only have until June 30 to agree the regulations for 2008, with Renault boss Flavio Briatore making it clear earlier this week that time was running for them to frame rules that would deliver much needed cost cuts.