Formula 1 is set to abandon its current hybrid engine technology in favor of returning to the thunderous V8 engines that once defined the sport, according to the president of motorsport’s governing organization.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who leads the International Automobile Federation (FIA), announced during the Miami Grand Prix that the racing series will transition away from its existing V6 hybrid power units to V8 engines no later than 2031, with the possibility of implementing the change a year sooner.
Speaking from his office with a view of the Hard Rock Stadium circuit, the Emirati official expressed confidence about the timeline. “It’s coming. At the end of the day, it’s a matter of time,” Ben Sulayem stated.
He explained the regulatory framework that makes this transition inevitable: “In 2031, the V8, the FIA will have the power to do it, without any votes from the PUMs (Power Unit Manufacturers). That’s the regulations. But we want to bring it one year earlier, which everyone now is asking for.”
The sport recently entered a new engine phase this season, featuring power units that derive approximately half their energy from electric sources and half from traditional combustion, while utilizing completely sustainable fuel.
Current drivers have expressed frustration with the need to employ ‘lift and coast’ techniques when approaching high-speed turns, allowing the combustion engine to replenish the battery system. They have also raised safety issues related to starting procedures and varying speeds throughout races.
The existing regulations, which received modifications before the Miami event, have grown increasingly complex, requiring fans to understand technical concepts like ‘superclipping’ and megajoule limitations for battery charging.
This isn’t Ben Sulayem’s first push for V8 or V10 engines powered by sustainable fuel, but he appears to be encountering reduced opposition this time. The current engine regulations are scheduled to remain in effect for the next five years.
“The mission will be less complication, not like now,” he emphasized.
The FIA president outlined two potential paths for the 2030 implementation: either four of the six engine manufacturers, including General Motors as Cadillac’s partner, must approve the change through a super-majority vote, or the FIA will mandate the switch for 2031.
Currently, Mercedes provides engines to four racing teams, Ferrari supplies three, Red Bull partners with Ford for two teams, while Honda and Audi each support one team. General Motors plans to develop its own engine for Cadillac, which presently uses Ferrari power units.
Ben Sulayem dismissed V10 engines as impractical, noting that V8s have gained the most support and remain common in consumer vehicles.
The sport last utilized the distinctive V8 engines between 2006 and 2013, before transitioning to the much quieter 1.6-liter V6 turbocharged hybrid systems. The legendary Cosworth V8 DFV engine was a staple from the 1960s through the early 1980s.
Describing the benefits of V8 engines, Ben Sulayem said: “You get the sound, less complexity, lightweight. You will hear about it very soon and it will be with a very, very minor electrification.”
He expressed optimism about manufacturer support while acknowledging the backup plan: “I’m positive, they want it to happen. But let’s say the manufacturers don’t approve it (for 2030). The next year, it will happen. In 2031 its done anyway. It will be done. V8 is coming.”
