Mattia Binotto Reports Positive Results from Ferrari’s “Complete New Power Unit” For 2021

It is not an undocumented secret that Ferrari have fallen way off their pace from the 2018 season onwards. This is because 2018 represented the last time the team were challenging for podiums and wins consistently.

The FIA’s internal settlement with Ferrari back in 2019 caused them to shelve their power units being used at the time. Since then, it has not just been the same for the team, often competing in the midfield.

However, Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto has offered an update about their plans of a new power unit in 2021. He also explained how during these difficult times, the team are undertaking dyno testing to develop their engine.

Ferrari may have a completely new power unit for 2021

Speaking in the pre-race press conference, Binotto said, “Yes, we do not have, currently, the best engine, that’s right. I think next year, we may have a completely new power unit.”

Ferrari are eyeing the 2022 regulations much like everyone else and see it as a chance to start afresh. In a bid to so, perhaps this is their opportunity to build a competitive engine for the years to come.

“As Ferrari, we have invested a lot in the development of the power unit for 2021, furthermore for 2022.

“And from what I can see today at the dyno, happy with the results.”

The idea, then, is quite clear from Ferrari’s end. Correlate the feedback presented from this season’s upgrades and develop the 2021 power unit to improve their competitive level.

A lot of problems in 2020 have revolved around the engine

Although direct retirements owing to mechanical failures have not been common, Ferrari still have some qualms with their engine. The integration balance of the car in 2020 has not been up to the mark, which has only made the SF1000’s handling difficult for the drivers.

Charles Leclerc and Sebastian Vettel, despite getting into good starts, have found themselves repeatedly overtaken. The answer lies in the fact that there just is not enough horsepower to take the fight to the other midfielders.

Considering the situation of the development restrictions, it is hard to see Ferrari make huge strides from their current car. Their new power unit can, possibly, offer positivity to the drivers, that something better is in the offing.