FIA take major step towards F1 V8 return with new engine regulations

The FIA has submitted a new proposal to Formula 1's engine manufacturers outlining plans to switch to V8 turbo-hybrid power units by 2030 or 2031. According to a BBC report cited by GPFans, the document was sent to current suppliers Mercedes, Ferrari, Audi, Honda, and Red Bull Ford, along with prospective entrant Cadillac. The proposed shift comes following heavy criticism of the 2026 regulations and aims to create simpler, lighter, and more affordable engines.

The blueprint features a 2.0 to 2.3-liter V8 combustion engine running on fully sustainable fuels with around 900 total horsepower. The proposal reduces electric energy recovery to 200 kilowatts, targets an 80kg car weight reduction, and proposes halving the current $190 million annual engine budget cap. The FIA hopes to finalize the proposal for World Motor Sport Council approval in December.