F1 Open to Exploring New Engine Options for 2030 to Enhance Sound Experience

Formula 1 is considering new engine options for the 2030 season to boost the sound experience for fans. This initiative aims to bring back the iconic, thrilling engine noise that has been a hallmark of F1 racing, enhancing the overall excitement and atmosphere of the sport.

With F1 chiefs and the FIA nearing the finalization of the 2026 chassis and power unit regulations in the coming weeks, focus has already turned to the following era of rules.

In a potential major shift for F1, following over 15 years of turbo hybrid engines, Domenicali has suggested that one possibility could be to completely move away from the current engine concept.

This option is being considered as part of a renewed push to make F1 engines louder.

Since the introduction of turbo hybrids in 2014, there have been complaints about their lack of noise compared to the older V8 engines.

Although they have become louder and there were high hopes for significant improvements by 2026, it is evident they still do not meet F1’s desired sound levels.

F1 might explore a range of options, potentially including new technologies or even reverting to old-school V8s, to find a solution that suits grand prix racing’s needs.

Speaking to selected media, including Autosport's Italian sister site, ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, Domenicali expressed his desire for F1 to bring back more engine noise.

He also suggested that if F1’s transition to fully sustainable fuels in 2026 is successful, moving away from hybrids in favor of a new direction could be worth considering.

“As soon as the 2026 regulations are defined, we will start to think about what the next steps will be, such as the 2030 engine,” said Domenicali.

"It is a personal consideration of mine, not yet shared with the teams, although we have discussed it with the FIA, that if sustainable fuels prove effective, we will need to carefully assess whether to continue with hybrid technology or explore better solutions."

A V8 return? 

While Domenicali did not provide specifics on potential alternatives, there have been numerous suggestions in recent years that if F1 successfully adopts fully sustainable fuel, it could eliminate the environmental objections to bringing back the popular V8 engines.

Such a shift would also address the growing concern about car weight, a topic that has gained increasing attention recently.

Last year, world champion Max Verstappen shared his ideal vision for F1, which included a return to V8 engines.

"I would definitely get rid of the hybrid," he said. "Every time I jump back into a V8, I'm always amazed at how smooth the engine is.

"The top speed is slower compared to what we have now, but the engine's pick-up and torque are impressive.

"The whole delivery process is so smooth: the downshifts, the upshifts. It's much more natural compared to what we have now."

2026 progress

Domenicali also provided an update on the progress of the 2026 regulations, indicating they will be finalized well ahead of the June 30 deadline.

"In recent weeks, there has been alignment between the various parties involved, and the publication of the 2026 regulations should take place on June 1," he said.

"The FIA will then explain the changes, which are numerous.

"It will be important to clarify as best as possible because I have seen a series of interpretations that do not correspond to what the new regulations will be."

While the new car rules have not been finalized, there are already concerns about certain compromises necessitated by the choice of turbo hybrids.

One of these issues is car weight, while Domenicali emphasized that noise is also critical.

"The sore point, but unfortunately necessary at the moment, is related to the weight of the single-seaters," he said.

"By keeping the hybrid power unit solution for 2026, a significant increase in weight is inevitable.

"If we compare a prediction of the 2026 single-seater with a car from 10 years ago, we can see that weight has become a significant issue.

"All drivers would like to have lighter cars, and personally, I would also like a slightly louder sound.

"On this last front, we are working to try to increase the number of decibels.

"From the research we are conducting, it emerges that all markets and all age groups want a better sound, as well as the energy and vibrations that only a certain type of engine can transmit when you are close to the track."

Source: Autosport