The president of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), Mohammed Ben Sulayem, is once again pushing for the simplification of Formula 1 power units, even before the 2026 technical regulations come into force. His proposal includes the adoption of V8 engines with hybrid integration, the use of sustainable synthetic fuels (e-fuel), and standardized components such as gearboxes. The primary goal behind this vision is to significantly reduce development and manufacturing costs, while also making the engines lighter, less complex, and easier to manage. Discussions are already underway between the FIA, the engine manufacturers, and Formula One Management (FOM) to explore the feasibility of implementing these changes ahead of schedule.
Although the new generation of Formula 1 power units is set to make its competitive debut next season, these engines have already sparked intense debate well before turning a single lap on track. Designed under the new 2026 technical framework, these hybrid units are supposed to bring a technological revolution to the sport. However, they are also raising concerns about weight, complexity, and cost.
Over the past year, several warning signs have emerged. In fact, under pressure from some Formula 1 teams, the FIA even floated the idea of returning to naturally aspirated V10 engines. However, the lack of the necessary majority among the stakeholders made such a regulatory change impossible. While it is not unusual for some power unit manufacturers — particularly those skeptical about the new engine architecture — to attempt to influence the regulations, this time it is the FIA president himself who is spearheading a campaign to move away from the incoming engine format.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem believes there are solid grounds for rethinking the technical direction of Formula 1 engines. According to him, the future lies in simpler, lighter, and more cost-effective power units made possible by adopting a number of standardized components. His proposal includes introducing a common hybrid-electric system supplier, a single fuel supplier focused on e-fuel, and even a standardized transmission supplier for all teams.
In Ben Sulayem’s vision, the move toward this new engine concept could be implemented as early as 2029 or 2030 — effectively bringing an early end to the five-year engine cycle that begins in 2026. Speaking to motorsport publication The Race, the FIA president outlined a clear and determined strategy, which will soon be formally presented to teams and engine manufacturers.
“Now they understand,” Ben Sulayem said. “Both the teams and the power unit manufacturers know we cannot continue with these engines. In the 2026 regulations, we already removed the MGU-H (the complex motor generator unit – heat), changed the compression ratio, switched to sustainable fuel, and adjusted turbo pressure. But it’s still not enough. We need a brand-new engine — lighter, with a single hybrid-electric supplier, a single e-fuel supplier, and also a common gearbox. Of course, we will need the support of FOM and the teams. We will present our proposal and see if they accept it. I believe they will, because it’s a matter of common sense.”
This is a controversial and sensitive topic. While reducing engine complexity and cost is a priority for many, the idea of introducing one-make technical components goes against Formula 1’s historic emphasis on technological freedom and competition. In the past, some standardization has occurred — for example, the single-spec electronic control unit (ECU) introduced in 2008 and supplied by McLaren Electronic Systems — but overall, teams have traditionally fought to protect their technical independence. A more viable path, some argue, could involve mandating the use of cheaper materials, though this would also present significant negotiation challenges.
“Our mission is to reduce costs,” Ben Sulayem reiterated. “Current power units cost between 1.8 and 2.1 million dollars each. We could imagine engines that cost only a quarter of that — and are also a quarter less complex.” One potential approach under evaluation by the FIA is retaining a small hybrid component, accounting for just 10% of the engine’s total power output. Reducing battery size and weight would be crucial to achieving the targeted weight reduction.
In order for this plan to move forward, Mohammed Ben Sulayem understands that he must secure the support of a broad majority of engine manufacturers — the only way to implement significant changes to regulations that are officially locked in until the end of the 2030 season.
“We’re already discussing with some engine manufacturers,” Ben Sulayem concluded. “Right now, we are presenting our ideas, and they are sharing theirs. Even if we don’t manage to gain the level of support we’re hoping for, at least we can say we tried. The FIA will never be the loser in this situation. Eventually, a few years from now, the regulations will once again be in our hands. This isn’t about challenging anyone — it’s about doing what is right and reasonable for the future of Formula 1.”
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