FIA Unveil Proposed Changes for 2008

The plans, which have come after discussions held between the FIA and several teams this year, will see the sport's cost cut dramatically thanks to the imposition of standard parts and includes the banning of traction control and the return of slick tyres.

Among the proposals put forward are:

* the introduction of standard ECUs to outlaw traction control, cut costs on electronics and allow the FIA to limit testing

* the introduction of standard gearboxes, with mechanical gear changes and clutches

*  a reduction in downforce to 10 percent of current levels with wider cars aimed at increasing mechanical grip

* a single tyre manufacturer to keep speeds in check, increase the sport's safety margin and allow the return of slicks

* the introduction of standard brakes

* the banning of pits-to-car telemetry

* the need for cars to be started by the driver without outside assistance

* the banning of spare cars

* a 30,000km testing limit during the calendar year

* the possibility for teams to purchase chassis off rival teams

Under the terms of the current Concorde Agreement, the document by which Formula One is run, the FIA have to publish the 2008 rules by the end of this year.

Although some teams believe that there is no need to rush into making decisions for 2008 and want to delay discussions for as long as possible, the timetable means that the FIA will need to have the regulations ready by the end of September so that they can be submitted to their World Motor Sport Council.

Final rules will therefore need to start being put in shape by the start of August - meaning that time is short for discussion with teams and the sport's other interested parties.

The FIA have called on the teams that have failed to join in talks so far this year to come to the table and discuss their ideas before the end of July, with the hope being that final preparation of the rules can begin on August 1.

A statement from the FIA said: "Criticism, constructive or otherwise, is welcome. All comments received during the July consultation period will be carefully considered when the FIA technical department finalises its proposals, which it will do in consultation with those teams and race organisers which have indicated their intention to participate in the Formula One World Championship from 2008 onwards."