Engine makers seek team support for rules

The manufacturers agreed on a package of rules from 2010 to 2013 that they hoped would help reduce costs and introduce more environmentally friendly technology.

The teams wanted the current 2.4-litre V8s to become four-race engines and run kinetic energy recovery systems (KERS) and a fuel-flow restrictors for 2010.

The idea was rejected, however, by the FIA - who believed that the proposals did not go far enough in reducing costs and helping the sport become more environmentally friendly.

Despite the setback, the manufacturers are now hoping to modify their ideas and get unanimous support from the teams before they resubmit proposals to the FIA.

BMW motorsport director Mario Theissen said: "I think we should enter into discussions. The FIA came back with another proposal to keep the engines for 10 years as they are, and to me it doesn't fit to me the picture from four months ago when the FIA proposed a four cylinder, direct-engine, turbo charged or super charged unit.

"We will get back to the FIA with the support of the independent teams, with the Fuji engine proposal, and try to come to a joint view."

Mercedes-Benz motorsport boss Norbert Haug was upbeat about the teams reaching agreement.

"Rejected is the wrong expression," he said about the FIA response. "It is a baseline and various options and possibilities are discussed.

"The great step forward is that we have unanimous agreement between six parties - that is a huge step that we are of the same opinion. And I think the independent teams will support that view because they will save a lot of money. We are heading in the right direction.

"What we got back from the FIA was a proposal to go further with initiatives like KERS in the future. Those are discussions for the future, but the baseline is a very constructive one."