Ferrari to test KERS in Peugeot sportscar?

(GMM) According to rumors in motor racing circles, Ferrari may have teamed up with Peugeot to accelerate the development of the Italian F1 team's KERS system for the 2009 season.

The unconfirmed reports, citing unnamed 'F1 sources', say part of the marques' new relationship will involve Peugeot running Ferrari's F1 KERS system on a test version of its Le Mans-style 908 prototype.

Ferrari is developing its KERS system with its electronics partner Magneti-Marelli, but the Maranello based team has admitted it is struggling with development of the technology and is yet to actually track-test a functioning unit.

It is suggested that the Ferrari-Peugeot tie-in could be one way for the Italian team to handle its lagging KERS track program in the face of the looming in-season test ban, to take effect from the Australian grand prix in March.

However, it is also suggested that Ferrari may be exploring making its KERS available to teams in other categories of racing.

In 2008, Peugeot said it would campaign a hybrid electric variant of its diesel 908, complete with a KERS system, in this year's Le Mans Series.