New solution proposed for F1 noise

Formula 1 chiefs are hoping to conduct fresh tests to try to improve the noise of the cars after the British Grand Prix

Although the test of a "megaphone" exhaust by Mercedes (pictured) following the Spanish GP was deemed a failure, with no clear improvement in volume, efforts have been ongoing behind the scenes to seek alternative solutions. It is understood that acoustic engineers employed by the FIA to help with the situation have been working in consultation with Ferrari to work on another idea.

The latest proposal is for a double exhaust and megaphone elements between the turbocharger and the wastegate. Sources suggest that work on the dyno has been encouraging and that the aim is to manufacture a prototype version that can be run on an actual car.

It is hoped that a finished version will be ready in time for a team to try out at the next in-season test, which takes place at Silverstone after the British GP. Should the twin-exhaust solution work, then it will need a change in the F1 technical regulations for next season to tweak the current rule that mandates a single tailpipe.

RAIKKONEN: NOISE IS IMPORTANT

Although criticism of the noise of the current cars has died down in recent weeks, some figures still believe the issue is important. Kimi Raikkonen said in Austria on Thursday that part of the perception of the speed of the current cars was framed by the noise they made.

"When you ask people who came before what the first thing is they notice, they say the sound was amazing, and if they go to a corner to see it, it looks very fast," he said. "Now, when they come, it doesn't look as fast because there's no sound anymore.

"I'm sure it's not so nice for them and so exciting and different, so I'm sure there are a lot of areas that can be made much better for people, and more interesting."