FIA proposes V8 turbo hybrids for next Formula 1 engine rules

Formula 1's next engine rules could feature turbocharged V8 hybrids from 2030 or 2031, BBC Sport reported on Tuesday. An FIA discussion document circulated to six manufacturers outlines the proposal, but the regulations have not been finalised. The BBC said multiple sources supplied its details.

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The suggested engines would displace 2.0 to 2.3 litres and use a smaller turbocharger. Electrical recovery capacity would fall to 200kW, with 100kW available continuously and another 100kW for overtaking. The package targets approximately 900bhp overall and an 80kg reduction in car weight while retaining fully sustainable fuel.

Manufacturers would also discuss a possible 50% reduction in the engine budget cap. A standardised baseline engine is among the options, although the BBC reported that manufacturers want to build their own power units. The FIA declined to discuss the document with the broadcaster.

The new blueprint follows months of debate about the balance between combustion power and electrification. In May, BBC Sport reported that FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem was promoting a naturally aspirated V8 with a small hybrid component. At that stage, discussions covered both longer-term engine architecture and nearer-term changes to the units introduced in 2026.

Manufacturer responses earlier this year highlighted the importance of retaining a connection to road-car technology. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff said in Miami that the company was open to discussions about V8s, while stressing the need for battery power. Honda told the BBC that any change should be discussed by the FIA and stakeholders with fans' interests in mind.

V8 engines were last used in Formula 1 in 2013, before turbo hybrids arrived in 2014. The BBC's May reporting also explained a practical trade-off: a naturally aspirated engine can be lighter, but needs more fuel than a turbocharged alternative. Weight comparisons therefore depend on fuel loads as well as the engine itself.

The latest discussions aim to produce a proposal for the FIA world council in December. Timing, costs and the detailed rules remain subject to negotiation.