Formula One could see the return of its iconic, noisy V8 engines as early as 2029, powered by fully sustainable fuel, according to FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The sport is set to enter a new engine era next season, but the head of the governing body has indicated a potential shift back to the naturally-aspirated V8s or V10s beyond that.
The V8 engines were last utilised in 2013, preceding the current 1.6-litre V6 units. Ben Sulayem highlighted the complexities and high costs associated with the present power units. "The current engine is so complicated, you have no idea, and it is costly," he told reporters at the recent British Grand Prix. He elaborated on the financial burden, stating: "R&D is reaching 200 million (dollars), and the engine is costing approximately 1.8 to 2.1, so if we go with a straight V8, let's see."
