FIA Reveals Key Details of F1’s Return to High-Revving V8 Engines by 2030

FIA President Confirms F1’s Shift Back to V8 Engines by 2030

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), has revealed the first technical details of Formula 1’s planned return to high-revving V8 engines, set to debut as early as 2030. The announcement, made ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, marks the official end of the hybrid V6 era, which has dominated F1 since 2014.

In an exclusive interview with The Drive following the race, Ben Sulayem outlined the key factors driving the switch back to V8s: cost reduction, weight optimization, and a renewed focus on purity for drivers and fans. He emphasized that while the current 1.6-liter hybrid V6 powertrain has served its purpose, it is now outdated after 14 years of development.

Why F1 is Ditching Hybrid V6 for V8 Engines

Ben Sulayem highlighted three primary reasons for the change:

• Cost Efficiency: The hybrid V6 powertrain is expensive to develop, maintain, and sell to customer teams. Simplifying the engine could make F1 more accessible to smaller teams.
• Weight Reduction: A lighter engine improves overall car performance and handling.
• Fan Appeal: The V8’s high-revving nature and distinctive sound are expected to enhance the racing spectacle.

“We now have this engine, which is a 1.6-liter, and it did what it had to do, in a way, but think it’s the 14th year and we still have it, you know?” Ben Sulayem said. “I believe that for the sake of the sustainability of the business—the cost, the efficiency, the lighter weight, the sound for the fans—I think [the V8] ticks many boxes.”

Early Technical Specifications for F1’s New V8 Engines

Ben Sulayem provided preliminary details on the new V8’s specifications, dispelling concerns that the change was a knee-jerk reaction to criticism of the current regulations. Key points include:

• Displacement: Between 2.6- and 3.0-liters (smaller than the classic 3.5-liter V8s of the past).
• Horsepower Target: Approximately 880 hp with a 10% energy split between the internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric components.
• ICE Power: Around 650 hp from the gas engine alone.

“First of all, you have to get the power,” Ben Sulayem explained. “You can’t get the power with less than a 2.5- or 2.6-liter, so you’re talking about between 2.6- to 3.0 liters. Then, having a 10% [energy split], you will get to 880 horsepower, but then the car [gas engine] will be about 650 hp.”

Sustainable Fuels and the Role of Electrification

While acknowledging the role of electrification in modern motorsport, Ben Sulayem stressed that it is not the sole solution. The introduction of sustainable fuels has enabled the development of larger, more affordable engines that align with fan expectations for the pinnacle of motorsport.

“With all due respect, electrification is not the only solution,” he stated. The new V8 will still incorporate hybrid elements, but the focus will shift toward a more balanced and cost-effective approach.

What This Means for F1’s Future

The return to V8 engines represents a significant technical shakeup for Formula 1, aiming to address financial sustainability, environmental goals, and the demand for thrilling on-track action. With the 2026 regulations already introducing major changes, the V8 transition could further reshape the sport’s competitive landscape.

As F1 prepares for this bold new direction, teams, manufacturers, and fans will closely monitor the development of the V8 powertrain in the coming years.