Red Bull referred to German GP stewards

The FIA’s technical delegate, Jo Bauer, has this morning notified German Grand Prix stewards of irregularities in the engine maps of both Red Bull cars. The stewards will consider Bauer’s report and decide if any action should be taken.

Key to the concerns of Bauer is the mid-range torque curves seen at Hockenheim. “Having examined the engine base torque map of car numbers 01 and 02 it became apparent that the maximum torque output of both engines is significantly less in the mid rpm range than previously seen at other events,” Bauer’s report states.

Bauer adds, “In my opinion this is therefore in breach of article 5.5.3 of the 2012 Formula 1 technical regulations as the engines are able to deliver more torque at a given engine speed in the mid rpm range.

“Furthermore this new torque map will artificially alter the aerodynamic characteristics of both cars which is also in contravention of TD 036-11. I am referring this matter to the stewards.”

The benefit to Red Bull for such a change in torque could be to artificially aid aerodynamic flow akin to the benefits gained form the now banned blown diffusers.

We’ll have to wait and see what, if any action, is taken. Potentially, this could see both Red Bulls sent to the back of the grid for tonight’s race.

Bauer’s statement is show below, along with the article 5.5.3 of the 2012 Formula 1 technical regulations.

[Thanks to Wes for the tip]

5.5 Engine torque demand:

5.5.3 The maximum accelerator pedal travel position must correspond to an engine torque demand equal to or greater than the maximum engine torque at the measured engine speed.

The minimum accelerator pedal travel position must correspond to an engine torque demand equal to or lower than 0Nm.