Volkswagen->ke94 may want to delve into the world of Formula 1->ke190, but not necessarily behind the wheel or by having "our own team like Mercedes". Hans-Joachim Stuck, a former grand prix driver and now the motor sport representative for VW stated, "We are waiting for the FIA's decision in respect of the use of a world engine for formula one. If there is (a world engine) we will discuss whether to build it for formula one".

Formula One’s current choice for the engine would be a 1.5L turbocharged four cylinder engine with a debut about 2013. They are also anticipating it to have KERS technology although that will be mandatory in 2011. The decision to go to a “world engine” concept exists for the sole purpose of reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Follow the jump for the full story and press release.

Many of the Formula One’s manufacturers do not like the idea of a world engine which would mean an engine that could be used across multiple types of racing as opposed to the purpose-built engine provided by the manufacturers today. Less engines means less business so we are not surprised to find the manufacturers trying to buck the system away from a concept such as this one.

Volkswagen’s entry into the world of Formula One through the engine process isn’t exactly a crazy idea, although it may seem so at first especially with them not wanting to take part in the actual racing team portion of it. Volkswagen has many award-winning engines under its belt and the engine currently being favored for the “world engine” concept is right along the same build as the engines Volkswagen currently has in its models. Maybe it is about time Formula One got shaken up a bit. We know current manufacturers for Formula One such as Mercedes->ke187, Ferrari->ke252, Renault->ke72, and Cosworth are probably shaking right now.

Press Release

Formula 1's plans for technical rules in 2013 and beyond remain unclear, but the adoption of a "world engine" concept is said to have piqued the interest of Volkswagen.

VW motorsport director Hans-Joachim Stuck emphasizes that the company is not interested in fielding a works team in the manner of Mercedes, with its acquisition of Brawn GP, or Ferrari, but rather as an engine supplier.

"We are waiting for the FIA's decision in respect of the use of a world engine for Formula 1," Stuck told Auto Bild magazine. "If there is , we will discuss whether to build it for Formula 1."

The "world engine" refers to an item that is not purpose-built strictly for one form but is applicable across multiple types of racing.

Speculation about the next-generation F1 engine revolves around a small (approximately 1.5-liter) in-line four-cylinder with turbocharger and an upgraded version of the KERS energy-recovery technology utilized last year in an experimental capacity with the series' 2.4-liter normally aspirated V8s.

None of the manufacturers presently competing in F1 have expressed support for the world engine concept.

Stuck attended the 2009 NASCAR season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway, fueling speculation about a VW entry into the American stock car racing series on the heels of Toyota. Stuck also addressed an interest in the IRL IndyCar Series and the Grand Am sports-car series, operated by NASCAR's France family.