by FIA plans the return of V8 engines in Formula-1
Since 2014, Formula-1 has been using 1.6-litre turbocharged six-cylinder engines. They sparked significant controversy after their introduction and became especially discussed this year due to a substantial increase in reliance on electrical power. It seems that the FIA has acknowledged the mistakes in the current regulations and intends to correct them by introducing new V8 engines.
End of the V8 era and new plans
The last V8 era ended in 2013. For several years, all cars on the track used high-revving 2.4-litre naturally aspirated V8s, without electrification, which sounded almost as loud as the V10s and V12s they replaced. Rumors about the return of larger displacement engines have been circulating for some time, and FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem is determined.
“It will happen. Ultimately, it is only a matter of time,” he said during a speech at the Miami Grand Prix. “In 2031 for the V8, the FIA will have the authority to introduce it without a vote from the power unit manufacturers. Such are the regulations. But we want to do it a year earlier, which is what everyone is currently asking for.”
Decision-making process
For the change to a V8 to happen in 2030, at least four of the six current engine manufacturers must vote in favor. If this does not happen, the FIA will have the authority to forcibly carry out the transition the following year, regardless of the support of the manufacturers, which currently include Mercedes, Honda, Ferrari, GM, Audi, and Red Bull.
A return to glorious times?
“I am optimistic, they want this. But let’s say the manufacturers don’t approve it – next year it will still happen. In 2031, it’s already done. So it will be. The V8 is coming back,” Ben Sulayem emphasized.
During the same interview, he noted that the V8 would be combined with “very, very minor electrification.”
Possible consequences for manufacturers
While the news of the V8’s return will undoubtedly delight many fans, it could deter some engine manufacturers from the sport. Companies, including GM, Audi, and Ford (through a partnership with Red Bull), were persuaded to join Formula-1 due to this year’s emphasis on electrification, and they may not want to return to V8s.
This FIA initiative is an attempt to find a balance between the traditional sound and power of internal combustion engines, which fans have come to love, and modern demands for environmental friendliness. Although full electrification is not planned, even minimal hybridization of the V8 could be a compromise that maintains interest from both old fans and new manufacturers investing in future technologies. Whether it will be possible to avoid conflict with automakers who have bet on hybrids remains to be seen, but the determination of the FIA president indicates the seriousness of the intentions to change the soundscape of the pinnacle of motorsport by the beginning of the next decade.
