Sauber clarifies Ferrari deal
Sauber will continue to use Ferrari engines re-badged as Petronas in 2005, but will build its own gearboxes. The team clarified its engine supply sitiation to quell speculation that it may be considering a switch
The Swiss outfit was always expected to continue a partnership that will enter it's ninth season next year. Sauber this year uses the same specification Ferrari V10 engine that powers the works cars.
"In the coming year, as well, we will be using engines Ferrari are making on behalf our partner Petronas," said Sauber's technical director Willy Rampf. "Overall, we are very satisfied with the engines supplied by Ferrari, which means that it absolutely makes sense for us to continue this cooperation. Especially in the field of engineering, continuity it very important."
Sauber has also confirmed that it will return to designing and constructing its own gearboxes in 2005 having used Ferrari's own design this season. When long-life engines were introduced for 2004 it became clear that Ferrari would have to supply Sauber with up-to-date engines and there was no time for the Swiss team to design its own transmission.
"This year's solution has been an exception," said Rampf. "All of our former cars, from the C12 to the C22, were always fitted with Sauber gearboxes. Our specialists have already started work on the new gearbox for the C24.
"Retaining our in-house technical competence is an essential requirement as far as we are concerned. This applies to all central areas like aerodynamics, carbon fibre production and - just as well - to the design of the gearbox. This gives us technical independence, thus enabling us to make any adjustments to changing general conditions which may be required."
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