2021 F1 rules will dictate Aston Martin engine decision

Aston Martin President and CEO Andy Palmer says the British manufacturer’s decision to enter Formula 1 as an independent engine supplier will depend on the future regulations set to be introduced in 2021.

Aston Martin has strengthened its ties with Red Bull by securing a deal to see the Milton Keynes-based squad race under the ‘Aston Martin Red Bull’ banner from 2018. The two initially linked up at the start of 2016 to develop the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar, engineered by Red Bull design chief Adrian Newey, plus significant cross-promotion.

Having secured an extended deal with Red Bull Palmer says it has been no secret Aston Martin is interested in entering F1 as an engine supplier, with a potential development partnership tie-up with Cosworth, but it would only happen if F1 engine regulations saw costs come down.

A particular issue of contention between manufacturers interested in entering F1 and existing factory teams is the costs and developments of the thermal MGU-H units in the current engine configurations – which some are hoping will become standardised and cost-effective in 2021.

“For 2021 there is a potentially a rule change in engines,” Palmer said on Formula1.com. “We are an engine maker and if the rules change sufficiently that it makes sense – that the costs come down so that a company like us can afford to do an engine – we’d like to do the engine.

“We would like to be the provider of an independent engine to F1 with our principal customer – that, of course, being our friends at Red Bull. And between these two things draw the line.

“Today we are a sponsor and innovations partner – maybe this will grow a bit, but to what extent depends on the direction that F1 takes.”