FIA proposes V8 turbo-hybrid engines and lower F1 costs for 2030 or 2031

Formula 1's governing body has circulated a proposal for cheaper, lighter V8 turbo-hybrid engines that could replace the current power units in 2030 or 2031, BBC Sport reported. The FIA document was sent to six manufacturers and provides a framework for negotiations, rather than a final set of approved regulations. The introduction date and several major design and financial details remain open.

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According to the BBC, which obtained details of the document from multiple sources within F1, the plan seeks to simplify the engines while retaining turbocharging and hybrid technology. Its stated objectives include lighter, more responsive cars, a greater emphasis on driver skill, lower costs and an easier route into the championship for new manufacturers. Reducing emissions also remains among the aims.

The proposed architecture represents a shift from FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem's earlier push for naturally aspirated engines. He initially advocated V10s before turning towards V8s. Under the framework now being discussed, turbocharging would remain part of the package, supporting efficiency and the manufacturers' interest in technology relevant to road cars. The BBC reported that the broad engine concept was considered acceptable to the manufacturers, although operational details still required negotiation.

Two development routes are outlined. One would limit the changes needed from existing designs: a 2.1-litre V8 could be created by adding two cylinders to the current 1.6-litre engine layout, alongside a smaller turbo and hybrid motor. The alternative would use an externally designed baseline power unit with extensive standardisation and some scope for manufacturers to customise it. The BBC's sources said manufacturers wanted to continue designing and building their own engines, preserving performance differences between suppliers.

The financial proposal includes halving the current annual engine budget cap of $190 million. That figure is a starting point for discussion, not an agreed reduction. Negotiations must also address the transition for workforces and the need to fund development of today's engines while designing their replacements. Those questions are linked to whether the new regulations begin in 2030 or 2031.

An FIA spokesperson declined to discuss the document with the BBC and instead referred to an Instagram post setting out Ben Sulayem's objectives. That post did not specify turbocharging or hybrid systems. The reported aim is to develop a proposal for the FIA world council in December, following further discussions over the coming weeks.