F1 Manufacturers to Discuss V8 Engine Proposal Amid 2026 Regulation Debate

Next week, F1 manufacturers will convene in London to discuss a radical engine proposal: a potential return to a 2.4-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine, fueled by sustainable sources and paired with a simplified Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS).

Why it matters

This proposal, if adopted, would represent a significant departure from the 2026 hybrid regulations, aiming to drastically cut costs and reduce car weight. It addresses ongoing concerns from the FIA about the complexity and expense of current hybrid power units, potentially reshaping the future technical direction of Formula 1.

The big picture

• The Proposal: The new concept targets around a 10 percent electrical contribution, a substantial drop from the approximately 50 percent planned for the 2026 V6 hybrids. Early projections suggest over 50 percent cost savings and cars up to 80 kilograms lighter.
• FIA's Stance: FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has consistently advocated for simplifying F1's technology, calling current hybrids "so complicated" and "costly." He views a return to V8s as "the right way to go."
• F1's Support: F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has also voiced support, seeing the combination of sustainable fuels, V8 power, and limited hybridisation as "the next step of the future."

The debate among manufacturers

Representatives from Mercedes, Ferrari, Honda, Audi, and Ford/Red Bull Powertrains will join the FIA at the summit. However, opinions are divided:

• Reluctance: Honda and Audi, making significant investments to join as full suppliers in 2026, are hesitant to abandon the new V6 hybrids after just three or four seasons. Audi emphasizes its commitment to "advanced hybrid electrification," while Honda highlights electrification as key to a "sustainable future."
• Openness to Change: Mercedes, Ferrari, and Ford/Red Bull Powertrains are reportedly more open to a shorter V6 cycle or an earlier introduction of V8s, though the exact timing remains a point of discussion.

What's next

The meeting in London will be crucial for understanding the feasibility and timeline of such a radical shift. While the current V6 hybrids are set to run until 2030, the V8 proposal could see changes as early as 2029, a prospect that has already generated considerable debate and internal conflict.