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Managing Director of Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains Andy Cowell says many have suffered hearing damage due to the sound of old Formula 1 engines.
The V6 turbo hybrid engines were introduced into Formula 1 in 2014 prompting many fans to voice their displeasure at the quieter sounds they made compared to old V8, V10 and V12 engines. Mercedes’ Andy Cowell explains the evolution of current power units.
“I think that in 2014, none of our engines were properly adjusted,” Cowell said
“Now everyone has adjusted their engine well. I think that makes the sound pleasant. The volume is therefore not very high, but it still makes quite a lot of noise.
“The supporting classes now also run on turbo engines, so the sounds all sound a bit the same. I think we see more families coming to the circuit as a result.
“With those screaming V8 and V10 engines, children definitely did not get close to the circuit. You don’t do that to your child.
“Many of us in the industry have suffered hearing damage, so I think it’s a good step forward.”
You can watch the full Podcast with Andy Cowell below.
Source: motorsportmagazine.com
