F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Formula 1 ready to bring back the roar with 2030 engine concept!

Grand Prix racing’s chief executive Stefano Domenicali says he is ready to consider for 2030 a radical shift away from the sport’s current hybrid engines in a bid to bring back the noise to Formula 1.

With the 2026 chassis and power unit regulations nearing finalization, Domenicali is slowly setting his sights on F1’s next transformation, which remains six years out.

Since the introduction of turbo hybrids power units in 2014, fans have lamented the lack of engine noise of the current units compared to the earth-shattering V8s and V10s of the past.

While some improvements have been made, and further strides are expected with the 2026 regulations, the sound still falls short of most F1 fans’ ideal.

According to Domenicali, F1 could explore a wider spectrum of engine possibilities for 2030 that could involve embracing entirely new power unit technologies, or a return to the crowd-pleasing full atmospheric V8s of the past.

However, there’s a key factor set to influence F1’s decision: the success of F1's planned switch to fully sustainable fuels in 2026.

If this transition proves effective, abandoning the current hybrid technology altogether becomes a viable option for F1.

“As soon as the 2026 regulations are defined, we will start to think about what the next steps will be, such as the 2030 engine,” Domenicali told selected media ahead of this week’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola.

“It is a personal consideration of mine, not yet shared with the teams, even if we have spoken about it with the FIA, that if sustainable fuels work, we will need to carefully evaluate whether to continue with hybrid (technology) or whether better solutions will be available."

F1’s return to a V8 atmospheric engine formula supported by fully sustainable fuels wouldn't just appease fans nostalgic for the thunderous sound, but it could also contribute to a lighter car design – a topic that's been gaining significant traction in F1's quest for faster and more nimble machines.

“By keeping the hybrid power unit solution also for 2026, a significant increase in weight is inevitable,” Domenicali explained.

“If we compare a prediction of the 2026 single-seater with a car from 10 years ago, we can see that weight has become a significant issue.

“All drivers would like to have lighter cars, and personally I would also like a slightly larger sound.

“On this last front, we are working to try to increase the number of decibels.

“From the research we are carrying out, it emerges that all markets, and all age groups, want a better sound as well as the energy and vibrations that only a certain type (of engine) is capable of transmitting when you are close to the track.”

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

Recent Posts

Alpine double-podium in Brazil could deliver $30 million windfall

Alpine’s remarkable double podium at the São Paulo Grand Prix with Esteban Ocon and Pierre…

10 hours ago

F1i's Driver Ratings for the 2024 São Paulo GP

Alexander Albon, Williams (Did Not Start): 5.5/10 Alex Albon is definitely going through something of…

11 hours ago

Jos Verstappen rips British media after Brazilian Max fest

Jos Verstappen wasted no time after his son spectacular win at the São Paulo Grand…

13 hours ago

Leclerc left with ‘mixed feelings’ after disappointing Sao Paulo GP

Charles Leclerc's weekend in Sao Paulo was unfortunately a stark contrast to Ferrari's recent triumphs…

15 hours ago

Back when Kimi knew exactly what he was doing

Twelve years ago on this day, Kimi Raikkonen took a popular win at the 2012…

16 hours ago

Mercedes fined for starting grid tyre pressure infringement

The Mercedes team was hit with a fine by the FIA after Sunday’s Sao Paulo…

17 hours ago