[Formula One] - Change from V10 to V8 engines

[skylight]

Originally Posted by www.crash.net

Toyota team boss, Tsutomu Tomita believes that the change from V10 to V8 engines could help them in 2006, as they bid to close the gap to the likes of Renault and McLaren - and win their first grand prix.

Tomita also reckons that the switch from Michelin to Bridgestone tyres should also aid their cause.

Asked about the new season and the switch to V8 engines he did concede though it was somewhat 'daunting'.

"I look at V8 engines, a new tyre supplier, a new chassis influenced by the length of the V8 engines, all the aero work, and all in a limited time. It is very daunting, but we hope to use such a new opportunity," he confirmed.

"At the moment I think every team is concerned about getting enough power and reliability from the V8 engines, but I am confident that we will achieve that in the winter testing and be in good shape before the first race in Bahrain next year."

As for the team's targets in 2006, having finished fourth in the manufacturers' championship this season and having taken five podium positions, Tomita wants his drivers to aim one step higher.

"We must take our first win in 2006," he continued. "That is my aim. Whether it is realistic or not, we will have to wait and see, but having decided to compete in F1 we have to challenge at the very front.

"I like to use the image of Mount Fuji to explain where Toyota Racing are now. At the moment, we are standing at the seventh stage of Mount Fuji, which is a good achievement and a pleasing result, but now we look up to the remaining stages, which are even tougher, more demanding, but the results when we get there will be even more rewarding."