Photo credit: www.autosport.com
FIA Considers Potential Return of V10 Engines in Formula 1
The FIA is set to convene a meeting with Formula 1 engine manufacturers to deliberate on the prospects of reintroducing V10 power units, according to reports from Autosport. This discussion has gained traction following comments made by FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem about the possibility of V10 engines powered by sustainable fuels making a comeback in the championship.
Nikolas Tombazis, the FIA’s single-seater director, confirmed during the recent Chinese Grand Prix that the organization is seriously evaluating this iconic engine configuration. While no definitive proposal has emerged, Tombazis has not dismissed the idea of a V10 revival potentially taking place before the end of the current engine cycle in 2031.
The future of the existing V6 hybrid power units, which are being developed for the upcoming 2026 season, now appears uncertain in light of these discussions. The FIA has scheduled the pivotal meeting with current F1 engine manufacturers for the Friday of the forthcoming Bahrain Grand Prix. Although the specific agenda is not fully outlined, it is anticipated that the meeting will assess the level of support among manufacturers for a transition back to V10 engines.
Audi, which is poised to enter F1 as a full works team, has expressed its commitment to the championship based on the hybrid engine framework that emphasizes electric technology. Conversely, Honda has also returned to Formula 1 influenced by the regulations set for 2026, though the company has not yet commented on the chance of a V10 resurgence.
There were initial discussions regarding an extension of the current engine regulations by two additional seasons, targeting a V10 comeback in 2028. However, this notion has been largely dismissed, with 2031 now viewed as a more practical timeline. This skepticism arises due to the significant investments being funneled into developing next year’s power unit.
Notably, support for the V10 proposition appears to be gaining momentum within F1 circles. There is a burgeoning consensus that adhering to the existing power units for an additional two years before transitioning to V10 engines could be a feasible route forward. This shift aligns with the evolving priorities of the automotive sector, which is increasingly turning its attention towards sustainable fuels, rather than focusing solely on electric options.
Moreover, the production costs associated with a V10 engine using sustainable fuel are anticipated to be considerably lower than those of a V6 hybrid, which relies heavily on both combustion and electric technologies. As the industry adapts to new standards, the prospect of reintroducing V10 engines presents both challenges and opportunities for the future of Formula 1.
Source
www.autosport.com