Sauber are yet to decide which engines will power their cars from 2014 onwards, when the new engine formula is introduced, but admit it makes sense to continue with long-term partner Ferrari.
It’s believed the cost of developing the new turbocharged 1.6 litre V6 engines will be passed on to customer teams such as Sauber, resulting in a price hike on current supply deals, which team CEO Monisha Kaltenborn admits could play a role in which supplier is chosen.
“There is nothing in place, [but] it is a logical step for us to first go and talk to our current engine partner, because we do have a long history together,” explained the Indian.
“Our position, I think as all customer teams have made clear, is that the financial aspect is very important for us. We don’t want to return to the times when you paid so much more than today for the engine.
“They will make it [the engine] anyway, so I think you have to find an equitable solution for customers and for suppliers on what you can do on the pricing and development costs.”
Speculation has linked Sauber with the Volkswagen Group as a potential supplier following confirmation that a meeting took place, but Kaltenborn is adamant that discussions aren’t ongoing.
“We were asked about a meeting, and we confirmed it took place in Geneva, and that is it, there is nothing further to say. There are no further talks,” she added.
“If we want to increase our competitiveness, it is one of our targets to have a strong partner, and the strength of the partner matters. We are definitely not talking to them [VW] now.”
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