FIA President Jean Todt is generally against a return of the atmospheric engine to F1 on the basis that it would not be acceptable to society.
Formula 1 ushered in the era of the V6 turbo hybrid power unit to comply with manufacturers wish of a more industry relevant and energy efficient engine regulation.
There are no doubts whether this has been successful with current engines achieving an estimated 50% thermal efficiency, almost double that of the older generation V8 engine.
While the engineering prowess is undeniable, F1 fans have expressed their discontent with the low growl, muffled sound of the modern day F1 engine compared to the high strung, piercing noise of the pre-2015 cars.
F1 sporting director Ross Brawn is mandated with building the engine rules of the post-2020 era, but Todt is already warning that there will be no return to a straightforward, non road-relevant engine.
"It will not be accepted by society," said Todt in the FIA's latest Auto publication.
"We have a responsibility to run an organisation monitored by global society. And global society will not accept that.
"Indeed, I'm sure if you said, 'let's go back to engines from 10 years ago', many manufacturers would not support such a move. I'm convinced a minimum of three out of four would leave.
"Also, we know that stability is essential -- firstly, to have as much competition as possible, and then to protect the investment.
"You cannot invest in new technology every year, it is not financially sustainable, and we already complain about the cost of racing, the cost of Formula One -- a cost that for me is absurd."
Todt believes Formula 1 should remain in phase with the development of society.
"The heart of the sport will still be there but it has to take into consideration the evolution of society.
"When you see all of the emphasis that is pit on climate change, on pollution, I feel we have the responsibility to participate.
"It is true a Formula One race will create less pollution than one plane going from Paris to New York, but we must be an example.
"And to be an example we cannot allow ourselves to create unnecessary pollution because it's the wrong image."
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