FOTA pushing for 'greener' F1 future

The body has received the results of an environmental research analysis of Formula 1, and is confident that it can cut carbon emissions by more than 12 per cent in the next three years. It has also targeted engine and gearbox regulations from 2013 to include new fuel efficient technologies.

FOTA chairman and McLaren team boss Martin Whitmarsh said: "It has already been possible to reduce Formula 1's total carbon emissions. Building on what we have already achieved, we anticipate that by 2012 F1 will have reduced its total carbon emissions by 12.4 per cent compared with 2009.

"In addition, the FIA and FOTA are already working together to tailor the 2013 technical regulations to ensuring that all engines and powertrains used in F1 by that date will showcase, and provide a platform for the ongoing development of, technologies designed to enhance fuel efficiency."

"This is a very exciting time for Formula 1 and I am delighted that our sport has been able to take a global environmental lead in this way."

FOTA is keen to ensure that F1 maintains its role in introducing and developing new technologies to the automotive world, and intends to continue the drive for more environmentally friendly technology.

A FOTA statement said: "Formula 1 cars have traditionally provided an exciting and productive development platform for new automotive technologies, and must continue to do so. Many of those new technologies have ultimately been introduced into consumer production cars.

"Turbocharging, fuel injection, variable valve timing and kinetic energy recovery systems [KERS] have all been developed within Formula 1, and it is the intention of FOTA, in collaboration with the FIA, to continue to pioneer technologies that are appropriate to the challenges faced by society today and in the future - and that are applicable to products that will benefit mankind in the longer term."