F1's 1000bhp revolution set to get green light in 2017

F1's Strategy Group met in Paris on Thursday to discuss in detail proposals to overhaul the look and speed of cars over the next two years.

Although there is still plenty of work to do in fine-tuning matters before the ideas can be put into the rules, there was support for changes to be introduced across 2016 and '17.

On the engine front, it was agreed that the 1000bhp move should be achieved through lifting the fuel flow rate limit and maximum fuel allowance, rather than ditching the current V6 hybrids totally.

Engine manufacturers have now been asked to produce more detailed proposals over the next few weeks to see if this is realistic to achieve.

In parallel with the engine changes, teams have also been evaluating ways to make the cars better - with added downforce, better looking designs and wider tyres now being looked at for next year.

Several ideas of how to achieve this were considered, but one of the key factors being looked at is how to achieve the aims without prompting a dramatic increase in costs.

One source said: "The powertrain changes won't come in for 2017 - but what might come in for 2016 are the wider rear tyres and the amendments to bodywork to suit that.

"What is being investigated is the incremental cost over and above what we would normally be doing."

The technical directors of teams are now likely to discuss the proposals - and the cost implications - when they meet in scheduled working group meetings with the FIA later this month.

It is hoped that the discussions will produce enough progress to allow 2016 rule changes to be approved by the F1 Commission on February 18.

Modifications to the rules for 2016 can be pushed through on a simple majority basis before March 1. After that date, unanimous support is needed to make changes.