The V8 already in 2030?
Already in recent days, on the occasion of the Miami Grand Prix, the FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem had reiterated the International Federation’s project regarding the return of V8 engines in Formula 1. A plan that effectively foresees the reintroduction of the engines used in the period from 2006 to 2013, cheaper and lighter, powered in the future with sustainable gasoline and with a “minimal electrification” to replace the current turbo-hybrids, considered too complex and less spectacular.
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Wolff votes yes
Ben Sulayem’s intention is for this to happen in 2030, at the latest in 2031, and therefore in five years. A solution that would thus eliminate the current hybrid regulations, despite the almost perfect split between internal combustion engine and electric propulsion. Supporting this potential change is Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff, but under certain conditions.
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The mega-engine
For the Austrian manager, the Brackley factory would be in favor of the return of the V8s, provided that there remains at least a minimal electric component: “We are open to new engine regulations – he said to The Race – we love V8s. They are synonymous with great successes and, from our point of view, they are a pure Mercedes engine. It reaches very high revs, but how can we provide it with enough energy from the battery not to lose touch with reality? If we aimed 100% at combustion, we might look a bit ridiculous in 2031 or 2030 – he added – we have to take that into account, simplify everything and create a mega-engine. Maybe we could extract 800 HP from the internal combustion engine and add another 400, or even more, in terms of electric energy. We are absolutely in favor, provided these discussions take place in a structured way, that the people involved are taken into consideration and their ideas evaluated. We are aware of the financial difficulties manufacturers face today. It is not easy, but if the initiative is well conceived and executed, count on us to come back with a real, real racing engine.”
