Formula 1, farewell to hybrid is a concrete possibility. Return to turbo V8s with synthetic fuels from 2031

Back to the future What we are experiencing now could be a crucial phase in determining the medium and long-term future of Formula 1. The regulations introduced this year, especially those linked to the hybrid power unit with an ‘enhanced’ electric and a distribution between the thermal and electrical parts divided almost equally at 50%, are leaving enormous doubts not only among enthusiasts but also among professionals. Many drivers have complained, but not just them: the hybrid era of the Circus, at this point, may have its days numbered. Enough power units, yes to synthetic fuels Naturally it is unthinkable to overturn the type of engine used in the very short term, even taking into account the huge investments made by all the engine manufacturers present on the grid: Ferrari, Mercedes, Red Bull, Audi and Honda have committed themselves – albeit with very different results – to creating these power units and it is unthinkable to throw everything to the wind in the space of a couple of seasons. But behind the scenes there is already discussion for a new revolution that puts aside the hybrid and re-embraces combustion engines, however driven by 100% sustainable synthetic fuels with zero impact in terms of carbon emissions. The revelations from Auto Motor und Sport This is the revelation launched by Auto Motor und Sport. In the columns of the German website we read that the entry into the scene of the new engine regulation should take place in 2031: “In theory – writes Amus – the hybrid component could be completely eliminated. Fuels with zero CO₂ emissions would be sufficient to guarantee sustainability. Since almost all production cars now use turbocharged engines, it is expected that Formula 1 engines will also be turbocharged. The favorite at the moment is a 2.4-litre V8 turbo engine”. This plan, which had already been suggested in unsuspecting times by the president of the FIA ​​Mohammed Ben Sulayem and which would also have the green light from the CEO of F1 Stefano Domenicali, would represent, if implemented, a radical reversal of direction compared to the path taken by the Circus starting from 2014.