F1 tweaks calendar with 2016 Australia GP brought forward

Formula 1 has come in for criticism for the relatively muted noise of the V6 Hybrid power units, with Bernie Ecclestone in particular airing his dissatisfaction with the resultant product of the new generation engines.

A number of rule modifications were also announced at a World Motor Sport Council meeting in Paris, including a change increasing the noise of cars, a measure that “will not have any significant effect on power or emissions”.

Other changes on the calendar see Bahrain and China swap places, with the race in Shanghai becoming the third round on April 17.

That’s not the only change approved to next year’s calendar.

“Such penalties prior to qualifying will be applied based on the time of use”, read the statement. In addition, if changes are made after the qualifying session, preference would be shown to drivers whose teams were earliest to inform regulators. The WMSC also clarified windtunnel and CFD restrictions – “specifically focusing on reporting and inspection processes for these development tools”.

Teams will now have to make sure their cars comply with all cockpit and safety equipment requirements during testing – including position of the driver’s head, headrest padding, cockpit padding and ease of driver egress. While the grand prix’s start time has been adjusted so that fans can watch both races, drivers hoping to compete in both will no longer be able to.

For 2017, on board cameras on stalks on the nose of cars will be prohibited.