By pitpass.com
April 11 2003

It's understood that Sauber is looking at the possibility of a new engine supply. The Swiss outfit, which has been using Ferrari engines - re-badged as Petronas - since 1997, is known to be talking to several companies including original supplier Mercedes-Benz. Team boss Peter Sauber is at pains to say that he is perfectly happy with his current supply, which powered his team to fourth in the Constructors' Championship in 2001, but that it is natural he looks at the alternatives.

For some time now Sauber has been linked with Volkswagen, and even though the German manufacturer is thought to have provided much of the cash for the Swiss team's state-of-the-art wind tunnel, continues to insist that it has no intention of entering F1.

At present, Ferrari supplies Sauber with a power-plant one phase behind that of its own team, though the Italian company has said that should the 'relationship' continue it would be prepared to offer Sauber 'same spec' engines in 2004.

With the FIA insisting that manufacturers be prepared to supply at least two teams each - though Honda had great difficulty supplying both BAR and Jordan - Mercedes is reported to be giving the idea or working with Sauber (again) serious consideration.

It's thought that a deal with Mercedes would also prove to be a lot more affordable than the current £18m a year that the Swiss team is currently paying Ferrari. Some sources claim that the Mercedes unit could be available for as little as £6m a year.

This article was written by pitpass.com and is used with permission.