A report from Autosport.com has revealed the initial direction for Formula 1’s next engine regulation, currently being pushed for the 2030 season. Current discussions indicate the use of 3.0-liter turbohybrid V8 engines—a sizeable displacement increase over the current 1.6-liter turbohybrid V6s.
While electrification remains involved in the upcoming power unit, it is set to play a much smaller role. Power output from the electric motor is down to 134hp (100kW), significantly less than the current regulations’ 469hp (350kW).
Another goal in the upcoming regulations is a 50kg weight reduction over the current engine setup, which sits at around 185kg minimum. In 2025, Formula 1 cars weighed around 800kg, before dropping down to 768kg this year. Should this weight reduction goal be met with the new regulations, cars could become even lighter and more nimble on the track.
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A naturally-aspirated engine was also an option for the new regulations, but the new V8 engines will retain turbocharging. Although natural aspiration would have produced a more aggressive sound favored by fans, it was suggested that noise levels would have exceeded the acceptable amount at street circuits such as Singapore and Las Vegas.
The compromise solution stakeholders arrived at is the use of a smaller turbocharger. In theory, this should allow for louder engines while keeping within the noise limits set by street venues.
The 2030 regulations have not been finalized, with some details still up for discussion. This includes the overtaking system to be used with the new V8 engines. A ‘push-to-pass’ situational power boost as seen in other racing classes like IndyCar is reportedly one of the systems being considered.
Earlier in the year, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s statements at the Miami Grand Prix confirmed the return to V8 power units. He also commented: “The mission will be less complication, not like now.”
The current Formula 1 season, which initially featured a 50/50 split between combustion and electric power, has been heavily criticized for a lacking sense of excitement and convoluted rule set.
