Will F1 go back to the future with its engines?
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- Mohammed Ben Sulayem proposes a return to a naturally aspirated V8 engine with a token hybrid, mirroring the 2013 F1 formula.
- F1 power units use a 1.6‑liter V6 turbo with a 50/50 split between combustion and electric power, leading to excessive energy‑management constraints that hamper qualifying performance.
- Concorde Agreement ends in 2030, after which the FIA could set 2031 engine regulations without the usual consultation, prompting Ben Sulayem to push for changes before the deadline.
- Audi, Ford and General Motors have joined F1 under the current rules, and Honda has reversed its earlier exit, indicating manufacturers’ stake in the engine debate.
- Stakeholders are reportedly open to reducing the level of electrification and modifying the internal combustion component while keeping the carbon‑neutral sustainable fuels introduced this year.
Why it matters: Teams risk losing performance if the 50/50 hybrid split stays, while manufacturers like Audi, Ford and GM gain influence by shaping a less‑electrified power‑unit before the 2030 Concorde deadline.
