Formula One rings the changes for 2006
(Agencies)
Updated: 2006-03-03 06:55

The new engines are expected to deliver around 20 percent less power, with around 750bhp likely rather than the previous top output of 950 bhp, resulting in lower top speeds and reduced acceleration.

Tyre changes
After a year of making tyres last for qualifying and the race, Formula One will again have drivers making regular pitstops for fresh rubber.

That could boost the fortunes of Bridgestone and Ferrari, eclipsed by Michelin last year but dominant in 2004 when races were sprints between tyre changes.

Williams and Toyota will join Ferrari on Bridgestone tyres after switching from Michelin while Toro Rosso have gone in the other direction.

This will be Michelin's farewell season before leaving Bridgestone as sole supplier in 2007.

Knockout qualifying
Qualifying has become a three-part knockout affair.

All cars will be on the track together at first, with three separate sessions in a one-hour period instead of last year's single-lap format with just one car out at a time.

The slowest six cars in the first 15 minute session drop out and take positions 17-22 on the starting grid. Six more are eliminated after a second similar session, taking places 11-16.

The final 10 drivers then fight for pole position in the decisive 20 minute session. Those cars which go out before the final session can be fully refuelled before the race starts whereas those in the top 10 can only replace what they used in qualifying.