Williams will upgrade the Formula 2 car for the second season of the new era of the championship in 2010.
The Formula 1 team, which built this year's car, is aiming to improve its aerodymanic efficiency by 15 percent and add 20 percent more downforce. A new turbocharger will increase power from 400 to 425hp, and up to 480hp on overboost, while the car's weight is due to be reduced by 25kg (55lbs). The proposed changes to the car are subject to FIA approval.
Next year's calendar has been expanded to include a ninth event. A place on the support bill of the World Touring Car Championship's visit to the Marrakesh street circuit in Morocco increases the number of WTCC events to eight, with the season starting with a stand-alone event on the Silverstone Grand Prix circuit. Both races in each doubleheader weekend will be 40 minutes long in 2010.
The changes to the series for next year have pushed the necessary season budget up to $450,000, and entries are now open for the 25 places.
"2009 has just provided us with a solid base from which to aggressively enhance F2," F2 boss Jonathan Palmer said. "Key areas that will be addressed for 2010 include a target of 100-percent reliability and greater performance and team operational efficiency."
The champion will once again receive a Formula 1 test with Williams. This year's champion, Andy Soucek, will receive his Williams opportunity in the "young driver" F1 test at Jerez next month.
Williams director of engineering Patrick Head said: "Andy will be driving for a full day of our permitted three-day testing allowance for young drivers in December and I am sure he will perform well."