KUALA LUMPUR: With rule changes leaving even less margin for error next year, Petronas are determined to step up their game to ensure Mercedes AMG Petronas remain a dominant force in Formula One.
The major rule change that will be enforced in 2018 is limiting teams to only three power units instead of four to lessen the costs involved for smaller teams.
This will make engine reliability even more important than before.
Petronas, who supply all lubricants and fuel to Mercedes, are aware of the situation and its group strategic communications brand management department general manager Afiza Mohd Yusof is confident that they will deliver.
"The success we have achieved so far is due the dedication and ambition of our team of technologists and engineers," said Afiza in a press conference together with Lewis Hamilton at KLCC today.
"Yes, next year will be tough but our team have always had the spirit of pushing the boundaries and I am sure we will rise to the occasion and find the winning formula again."
Afiza added that Petronas were very proud to help the team secure their fourth constructors title in a row this year in addition to Hamilton's third drivers’ title with the outfit.
"It is a big deal for us as this is also a Malaysian win, the people behind the scenes such as the engineers are the unsung heroes and it was great to see Hamilton celebrating with them today.
"We have recently (July) renewed our contract with Mercedes until 2020 and we are hoping to help the team achieve another three years of double victories (in drivers and constructors championships),” he added.