Formula 1’s long-term engine future has taken another fascinating twist.
The FIA has confirmed that Formula 1 stakeholders are discussing normally aspirated engines running on sustainable fuel as part of the sport’s longer-term technical direction beyond the current regulations.
In comments reported by Reuters, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem also raised the possibility of an independent FIA-approved V8 supplier and a return to refuelling as part of a cheaper, simpler post-2030 formula.
A Return to V8 Power
Current Formula 1 cars use highly complex 1.6-litre turbocharged V6 hybrid power units.
While the 2026 regulations continue with hybrid technology, discussions have already begun about what comes next when the current Concorde Agreement ends in 2030.
The latest proposal centres around:
- Naturally aspirated V8 engines
- Fully sustainable fuel
- Much simpler hybrid systems
- Lower development costs
- Lighter cars
- Louder engine sound
According to Ben Sulayem, the aim is to make Formula 1 cheaper, simpler and more exciting while still maintaining environmental responsibility through sustainable fuels.
An Independent Engine Builder
Perhaps the most interesting part of the proposal is the idea of introducing an independent FIA-approved engine supplier.
Instead of every customer team relying on one of the major manufacturers such as Ferrari, Mercedes, Honda or Red Bull Powertrains, teams could potentially purchase engines from a neutral supplier.
The concept is similar to the role played by Cosworth during previous Formula 1 eras.
Benefits could include:
- Lower engine costs
- Greater competitive balance
- Less political influence from manufacturers
- Easier entry for new teams
- More stable long-term regulations
Ben Sulayem has also suggested limiting manufacturers to supplying fewer customer teams, reducing the influence that factory engine programmes currently hold across the grid.
Could Refuelling Return?
One unexpected consequence of moving back to V8 engines could be the return of mid-race refuelling.
Because naturally aspirated V8s consume more fuel than today’s highly efficient hybrid power units, Formula 1 may consider bringing back refuelling to avoid carrying excessively large fuel tanks.
Refuelling disappeared after the 2009 season, largely due to cost and safety concerns.
However, the FIA believes advances in equipment and the use of sustainable fuels could make the concept worth revisiting.
Why Fans May Welcome the Change
Many Formula 1 fans have never fully embraced the quieter hybrid era that began in 2014.
A return to V8 engines would likely deliver:
- A louder, more emotional soundtrack
- Simpler technology
- Lower costs
- Reduced vehicle weight
- More aggressive racing characteristics
The move would still retain a level of electrification, although far less than today’s power units. Current discussions suggest hybrid assistance could fall to around 10–15% of total power output.
Tech Torque Media Verdict
Nothing has been officially approved yet, and any major regulation changes would require agreement between Formula 1, the FIA and engine manufacturers.
However, the fact these discussions are now taking place publicly suggests Formula 1 is already looking beyond the 2026 regulations. Follow our wider motorsport coverage and Formula 1 Archive for further developments.
A simpler V8 engine formula, sustainable fuels and the possibility of an independent engine supplier could reshape the competitive landscape of Formula 1 for the next generation.
For many fans, it could also mean the return of one thing they’ve missed most over the past decade — the unmistakable sound of Formula 1.
