Overview
- FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said at the Miami Grand Prix that F1 will move to V8 engines by 2031, with a 2030 start if at least four of the six power unit makers agree.
- He outlined a larger 2.6 to 3.0 liter engine with only 10 to 20 percent electric power and revs near 16,000 rpm to limit cost and avoid harsh sound.
- Critics say the 2026 hybrid unit is too heavy at 185 kilograms, too costly, and too dependent on a 350 kW battery that forces frequent energy harvesting on track.
- Manufacturers are split, as Audi’s Mattia Binotto backs the current rules while Mercedes’ Toto Wolff is open to a V8 that keeps real electrification, even as each company faces about $660 million already spent.
- Talks continue on 2027 stopgaps such as less downforce or a tilt toward more combustion, and a simpler V8 could make engines cheaper to buy and even let teams like McLaren build their own.