Audi has expressed its support for Formula One’s new hybrid power unit regulations, amidst growing speculation about a potential return to V10 engines.
Starting next season, Formula One will switch to a simplified version of its hybrid engines. These new engines will be significantly cheaper to produce, as they will no longer feature the MGU-H (Motor Generator Unit – Heat) component.
The revised power units will also deliver three times the electrical power and run entirely on sustainable fuels. This move has been a major factor in Audi’s decision to enter Formula One, as well as in Honda’s reversal of its exit decision and Ford’s partnership with Red Bull.
This shift is important, particularly after recent comments from FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who hinted at the possibility of reintroducing V10 engines by 2028.
In a statement to The Race, Audi made it clear that it opposes the idea of replacing the current turbo hybrid engines with V10s. The company emphasized that the new regulations played a key role in its decision to enter the sport. Audi further stated that these power unit regulations align with the technological innovations seen in its road cars.
Despite Audi’s stance, the FIA is actively considering whether the direction of Formula One’s power units should change. Several options are being discussed.
FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis shared insights at the Chinese Grand Prix, noting that the first question is whether the sport should move to a different type of power unit in the next few years. He pointed out that if this is the desired direction, then the secondary question is what to do in the meantime.
Tombazis acknowledged that progress in sustainable fuels has raised the possibility of simplifying engines. He also mentioned that the current power units are too expensive, which is why FIA president Sulayem has discussed the potential for a V10 engine return in 2028. This is an option the FIA is seriously evaluating with power unit manufacturers.
All current manufacturers are heavily involved in developing the new engines, and Tombazis recognized that many have already invested considerable resources in the process. He emphasized that the FIA aims to make decisions that are fair and respectful to all participants, considering the significant investments being made.
According to The Race, for any change in engine regulations to occur, four out of the five current manufacturers must support it. While Audi is opposed to the shift, Ferrari and Red Bull are reportedly open to the idea of returning to V10 engines.
