Cosworth Aims to Partner with Aston Martin on F1 Engine

U.K.-based Cosworth Group is in talks with Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd. to jointly develop an engine for the Formula One team the carmaker operates with Red Bull racing, Autosport reports.

“We would like to work with that partnership (Aston Martin Red Bull Racing),” Cosworth powertrain chief Bruce Wood tells the U.K. enthusiast magazine. He says there is a “natural fit” between the companies, noting that Cosworth is teaming with Aston Martin and Red Bull on the carmaker’s upcoming Valkyrie hypercar.

Last autumn Aston Martin signed on to become Red Bulls’ title sponsor for the 2018 season. At the time, CEO Andy Palmer indicated the carmaker could provide an F1 engine in conjunction with rule changes expected to take effect after the 2020 season.

Aston Martin Red Bull Racing currently uses Renault 1.6-liter turbocharged V-6 hybrid engines. The new rules, which are scheduled to be finalized later this year, will allow higher engine speeds and a less complex hybrid system.

Wood says Cosworth would have to add engineering staff if it partnered with Aston Martin on an F1 engine. As a result, the engine likely wouldn’t be ready until 2022.

Cosworth engines have powered F1 cars to 176 wins over the years—second only to Ferrari. Aston Martin hasn’t competed in the series since 1960.