Will F1 go back to the future with its engines?
Summary
Formula 1 is discussing changes to its car engines both for the short term and for the future. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem supports bringing back V8 engines with a small hybrid system, similar to what was used until 2013, as a possible engine type for 2030 or later.Key Facts
- F1 introduced new engines in 2024 that have caused some issues needing quick fixes.
- The current engines are 1.6-liter V6 turbo hybrids with a roughly equal split between fuel and electric power.
- The existing engines weigh about 185 kg, while the earlier 2.4-liter V8 engines used until 2013 weighed 130 kg.
- Ben Sulayem suggests returning to V8 engines with minimal hybrid use for better efficiency, lower weight, and improved sound.
- This engine change would keep carbon-neutral sustainable fuels, so emissions wouldn’t increase.
- The next major engine regulation change is planned for around 2031, after the current Concorde Agreement ends.
- New manufacturers like Audi, Ford, and GM have joined F1 under the current rules, and Honda reversed its exit decision.
- Changes rushed without agreement risk manufacturer departures, so discussions are ongoing about engine design and electrification levels.
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