Alpine has been denied its request for a special authorization to improve its Formula 1 power unit, adding 30 horsepower to match its rivals – Ferrari, Honda RBPT, and Mercedes.
Auto Motor und Sport reports that the FIA analyzed the power of the French engines using torque sensor data. The conclusion is that the power deficit is only around 15 to 20 horsepower. This disadvantage will persist until the end of the current power unit cycle in 2025, as permission for performance-related changes has been rejected.
In addition, the lack of reliability issues does not justify an exception to the freezing of power units. Alpine has not resisted accepting the FIA’s decision and will focus on working on the other two main areas of performance – the chassis and gearbox.