Future of F1 Power Units
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali envisions a future where grand prix racing utilizes a V8 hybrid power unit fueled by entirely sustainable resources.
With a growing agreement on the need to move away from costly and complex turbo hybrid engines, discussions are intensifying about future regulations. Domenicali has previously hinted at exploring alternative directions, a sentiment echoed by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who recently voiced support for V8s.
This conversation follows earlier talks this year about a potential return to V10 engines, which did not gain much traction. In a recent interview, Domenicali referenced a YouTube poll indicating that 86% of participants preferred V8 or V10 engines with sustainable fuel, while only 7% favored keeping the current turbo hybrids.
“That’s a significant amount of support,” Domenicali shared on a special episode of The Race F1 Podcast, addressing questions from The Race Members’ Club. He recalled stating two years prior that this shift seemed promising.
“I’m pleased to see this level of backing,” he continued. He emphasized that any new direction would still include hybrid elements. “I believe a V8 powered by sustainable fuel is an excellent option. Hybridization is the next step forward.”
Standardizing Components
Another aspect recently discussed by Ben Sulayem includes the introduction of more standardized components, like gearboxes and fuels. Domenicali is open to this idea, although he acknowledges the need to consider existing commercial agreements among teams.
“The gearbox, as an example, has minimal impact on performance,” he said. “While different gearboxes might yield only a 0.001s difference, issues arise concerning reliability and costs. It’s logical to consider components that are less critical to F1’s technological edge.”
Hydrogen Engines: A Distant Future
While the potential for hydrogen engines in F1 has been a topic of interest, Domenicali believes this is not feasible in the near term. “This could be a possibility, but not in the next ten years; it’s too far off,” he stated, citing safety concerns around racing.
Domenicali mentioned that while hydrogen presents an engaging opportunity, it remains premature for a racing application. “The complexities are too significant, and taking such risks at this stage is not viable,” he concluded.
