Last seen during the 2013 season, FIA is planning to bring back the V8 engines in the near future. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem gave a positive update recently when asked about bringing the V8 engines back into the sport. After the 2013 F1 World Championship, V8 engines were replaced by the current turbo-hybrid V6 engines. Several drivers have also raised their support in favour of bringing the V8 engines back with early 2030s being targeted.
The introduction of new power units has brought about severe criticism from both drivers and fans alike. The energy management steps taken by the FIA may have curbed carbon emissions, but many argue, including the drivers, that it has taken the fun away from racing.
"Going back to the V8, we have to see what are the objectives? Why? I feel there is a need of a fresh white paper engine that hits all the points," he further added, "One thing is the sound for the fans, it's so important to us, simplicity, and cost effectiveness."
What's interesting to note is the emphasis on "sound" that the V8 engine will bring, which the FIA President believes is important to keep fans' interest.
Why did FIA get rid of the V8 engines?
As mentioned earlier, 2013 was the last time V8 engines were used. Sebastian Vettel won the WDC that year, marking his fourth consecutive drivers; title. The V8 engine era started in 2003 till 2013 with Vettel dominating from 2010-2013. Vettel won 13 races in a single season back in 2013, including a historic run of nine consecutive wins to close out the V8 era.
The decision to get rid of V8 engines was made with the intention to push towards electrification and need for fuel efficiency. Moreover, it was an attempt to make the sport more relevant to consumer road cars.
This was also done to entice car manufacturers/brands into the sport by promoting cleaner hybrid technology.
