V8 Engines under consideration from 2031

Formula 1 switched to a new generation of hybrid power units in 2026, with power split equally — 50:50 — between the electric component and the internal combustion engine.

However, pre-season testing and the opening races have shown that this decision has not been entirely successful. The maximum power mode is only available for short periods, and energy reserves are insufficient on long straights.

During the enforced break in April, representatives of Formula 1, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile, teams and power unit manufacturers will hold a series of meetings to discuss possible rule changes. These adjustments are aimed at the short term — ideally in time for the Miami Grand Prix — while, in the longer term, the current power units are expected to remain in place for several more years.

At the same time, active discussions have already begun regarding power unit options for 2031. One of the concepts under consideration would remove the hybrid component altogether, with the series maintaining its environmental credentials through the carbon-neutral fuels introduced in 2026.

Such an approach could pave the way for the return of naturally aspirated engines to Formula 1. However, resistance from manufacturers is likely, as modern road cars predominantly use turbo engines, and future F1 power units are also expected to follow that trend.

According to Auto Motor und Sport, the current leading candidate is a 2.4-litre turbo V8 engine. However, there is still a long way to go before the final specification for 2031 is confirmed.

That said, a V8 comeback remains a realistic possibility. The idea has previously been supported by Mohammed Ben Sulayem, while Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali did not rule out the return of V8 engines in the future.