It has been mooted for some time but now fans can eagerly look forward to this.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem confirmed that Formula 1 will switch back to V8 engines at the beginning of the next decade. This decision follows discussions over a period of time, with the recent introduction of a power unit that has faced criticism for its heavy reliance on electrical energy along with combustion. Ben Sulayem expressed a desire last year for F1 to adopt V8 or V10 engines running on sustainable fuels, a move that has gained traction as current power units are costly and heavy despite adjustments like removing the MGU-H.
The shift in opinion by manufacturers towards sustainable fuels and away from pure electrification has paved the way for the return of V8 engines, which were last used in F1 from 2006 to 2013. Ben Sulayem has indicated that the change is inevitable, with plans to implement it by 2030, a year ahead of the mandated regulations. The return to V8 engines is favored due to their simplicity, sound, and road relevance, with minimal electrification compared to the current power units.
Manufacturers no longer prioritize electrification in road cars, making the lightweight and straightforward V8 engines a suitable choice for the future of F1. Ben Sulayem emphasized the practicality and broad appeal of V8 engines, citing examples of leading car manufacturers utilizing this engine type in their vehicles. The transition back to V8 engines signifies a return to a more traditional and accessible power unit for the sport.
