Post by blacktulip on Apr 12, 2010 6:57:30 GMT
Leading Formula 1 figures have hinted that the sport could make technical changes to help entice a new tyre manufacturer into the fray, amid rumours that Michelin would like to return, but using 18-inch wheel rims rather than the current 13-inch diameters.
F1 has a tyre supply void to fill for 2011, when Bridgestone is set to depart after 14 years in the sport, many of them as sole supplier.
Reports emerging during the Malaysian Grand Prix weekend suggested that if Michelin was to come back, it would like to run wheels more in line with those featuring in its sportscar programmes.
Williams technical director Sam Michael believes 18-inch wheels would be a good move for F1.
"I personally think it’s a great idea; I’d love to do that," he said.
"I think it brings Formula 1 into the modern world if you like.
"The problem with having a 13-inch wheel rim at the moment – it’s a very specific tyre.
"And although tyre companies like Avon and Kumho and Michelin and Bridgestone and Goodyear make tyres like that, they are very specific to Formula 1-type racing.
F1 has a tyre supply void to fill for 2011, when Bridgestone is set to depart after 14 years in the sport, many of them as sole supplier.
Reports emerging during the Malaysian Grand Prix weekend suggested that if Michelin was to come back, it would like to run wheels more in line with those featuring in its sportscar programmes.
Williams technical director Sam Michael believes 18-inch wheels would be a good move for F1.
"I personally think it’s a great idea; I’d love to do that," he said.
"I think it brings Formula 1 into the modern world if you like.
"The problem with having a 13-inch wheel rim at the moment – it’s a very specific tyre.
"And although tyre companies like Avon and Kumho and Michelin and Bridgestone and Goodyear make tyres like that, they are very specific to Formula 1-type racing.