F1’s next engine takes shape: turbo V8, less hybrid power and 50 kg lighter

Formula 1 is already beginning to shape the engine that will succeed the current hybrid generation. According to Motorsport.com, the FIA and the manufacturers have reached an agreement in principle on the main elements of the next cycle: a 3.0-litre turbo V8 paired with an electric motor far less powerful than today’s.

The electric side would fall to around 100 kW, compared with 350 kW on the current power units, while the target is to cut at least 50 kg from the package. The turbo would be retained in part because a naturally aspirated V8 could create noise problems at several street circuits subject to sound limits.

Not everything is fixed. A push-to-pass system is still being studied and the introduction date remains open: 2030 is a possibility, not yet a final decision. The direction is nevertheless much clearer than a few months ago: F1 wants a simpler, lighter engine in which the electric element plays a less dominant role.