Formula One engines
Since its inception in 1947, Formula One has used a variety of engine regulations. "Formulae" limiting engine capacity had been used in Grand Prix racing on a regular basis since after World War I. The engine formulae are divided according to era.[1][2]
| Formula One |
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Operation[]
Formula One currently uses 1.6 litre four-stroke turbocharged 90 degree V6 double-overhead camshaft (DOHC) reciprocating engines.[3] They were introduced in 2014 and have been developed over the past seasons.
The power a Formula One engine produces is generated by operating at a very high rotational speed, up to 12,000 revolutions per minute (rpm).[4] This contrasts with road car engines of a similar size which typically operate at less than 6,000 rpm. The basic configuration of a naturally aspirated Formula One engine had not been greatly modified since the 1967 Cosworth DFV and the mean effective pressure had stayed at around 14 bar MEP.[5] Until the mid-1980s Formula One engines were limited to around 12,000 rpm due to the traditional metal valve springs used to close the valves. The speed required to operate the engine valves at a higher rpm called for ever stiffer springs, which increased the power loss to drive the camshaft and the valves to the point where the loss nearly offset the power gain through the increase in rpm. They were replaced by pneumatic valve springs introduced by Renault in 1986,[6][7] which inherently have a rising rate (progressive rate) that allowed them to have extremely high spring rate at larger valve strokes without much increasing the driving power requirements at smaller strokes, thus lowering the overall power loss. Since the 1990s, all Formula One engine manufacturers used pneumatic valve springs with the pressurised air allowing engines to reach speeds of over 20,000 rpm.[7][8][9]
Short-stroke engine[]
Formula One cars use short-stroke engines.[10] To operate at high engine speeds, the stroke must be relatively short to prevent catastrophic failure, usually from the connecting rod, which is under very large stresses at these speeds. Having a short-stroke means a relatively large bore is required to reach a 1.6-litre displacement. This results in a less efficient combustion stroke, especially at lower rpm.[citation needed]
In addition to the use of pneumatic valve springs a Formula One engine's high rpm output has been made possible due to advances in metallurgy and design, allowing lighter pistons and connecting rods to withstand the accelerations necessary to attain such high speeds. Improved design also allows narrower connecting rod ends and so narrower main bearings. This permits higher rpm with less bearing-damaging heat build-up. For each stroke, the piston goes from a virtual stop to almost twice the mean speed (approximately 40 m/s), then back to zero. This occurs once for each of the four strokes in the cycle: one Intake (down), one Compression (up), one Power (ignition-down), one Exhaust (up). Maximum piston acceleration occurs at top dead center and is in the region of 95,000 m/s2, about 10,000 times standard gravity (10,000 g).[citation needed]
History[]
Formula One engines have come through a variety of regulations, manufacturers and configurations through the years.[11]
1947–1953[]
This era used pre-war voiturette engine regulations, with 4.5 L atmospheric and 1.5 L supercharged engines. The Indianapolis 500 (which was a round of the World Drivers' Championship from 1950 onwards) used pre-war Grand Prix regulations, with 4.5 L atmospheric and 3.0 L supercharged engines. The power range was up to 425 hp (317 kW), though the BRM Type 15 of 1953 reportedly achieved 600 hp (447 kW) with a 1.5 L supercharged engine.
In 1952 and 1953, the World Drivers' Championship was run to Formula Two regulations, but the existing Formula One regulations remained in force and a number of Formula One races were still held in those years.
1954–1960[]
Naturally-aspirated engine size was reduced to 2.5 L and supercharged cars were limited to 750 cc. No constructor built a supercharged engine for the World Championship. The Indianapolis 500 continued to use old pre-war regulations. The power range was up to 290 hp (216 kW).
1961–1965[]
Introduced in 1961 amidst some criticism, the new reduced engine 1.5 L formula took control of F1 just as every team and manufacturer switched from front to mid-engined cars. Although these were initially underpowered, by 1965 average power had increased by nearly 50% and lap times were faster than in 1960. The old 2.5 L formula had been retained for International Formula racing, but this did not achieve much success until the introduction of the Tasman Series in Australia and New Zealand during the winter season, leaving the 1.5 L cars as the fastest single seaters in Europe during this time. The power range was between 150 hp (112 kW) and 225 hp (168 kW).
1966–1986[]
In 1966, with sports cars capable of outrunning Formula One cars thanks to much larger and more powerful engines, the FIA increased engine capacity to 3.0 L atmospheric and 1.5 L compressed engines. Although a few manufacturers had been clamouring for bigger engines, the transition was not smooth and 1966 was a transitional year, with 2.0 L versions of the BRM and Coventry-Climax V8 engines being used by several entrants. The appearance of the standard-produced Cosworth DFV in 1967 made it possible for small manufacturers to join the series with a chassis designed in-house. Compression devices were allowed for the first time since 1960, but it was not until 1977 that a company actually had the finance and interest of building one, when Renault debuted their new Gordini V6 turbocharged engine at that year's British Grand Prix at Silverstone. This engine had a considerable power advantage over the naturally-aspirated Cosworth DFV, Ferrari and Alfa Romeo engines. By the start of the 1980s, Renault had proved that turbocharging was the way to go in order to stay competitive in Formula One, particularly at high-altitude circuits like Kyalami in South Africa and Interlagos in Brazil. Ferrari introduced their all-new V6 turbocharged engine in 1981, before Brabham owner Bernie Ecclestone managed to persuade BMW to manufacture straight-4 turbos for his team from 1982 onwards. In 1983, Alfa Romeo introduced a V8 turbo, and by the end of that year Honda and Porsche had introduced their own V6 turbos (the latter badged as TAG in deference to the company that provided the funding). Cosworth and the Italian Motori Moderni concern also manufactured V6 turbos during the 1980s, while Hart Racing Engines manufactured their own straight-4 turbo. By mid-1985, every Formula One car was running with a turbocharged engine. BMW's straight-4 turbo, the M12/13, produced around 1,400–1,500 hp (1,040–1,120 kW) at over 5 bar of boost in qualifying trim, but was detuned to produce between 850–900 hp (630–670 kW) in race spec. It powered the Brabham BT52 of 1983, with which Nelson Piquet won that year's Drivers' Championship. By 1986, power figures were reaching unprecedented levels, with all engines reaching over 1,000 hp (750 kW) during qualifying with unrestricted turbo boost pressures. This was especially seen with the BMW engines of Benetton's cars, reaching around 1,400 hp (1,040 kW) at a 5.5 bar boost pressure during qualifying. However, these engines & gearboxes were very unreliable because of the engine's immense power, and would only last about four laps. For the race, the turbocharger's boost was restricted to ensure engine reliability; But, the engines still produced 850–1,000 hp (630–750 kW) during the race. The power range from 1966 to 1986 was between 285 hp (210 kW) to 500 hp (370 kW), turbos 500 hp (370 kW) to 900 hp (670 kW) in race trim, and in qualifying, up to 1,400 hp (1,040 kW). Following their experiences at Indianapolis, in 1971 Lotus made a few unsuccessful experiments with a Pratt & Whitney turbine fitted to chassis which also had four-wheel-drive.[12]
1987–1988[]
Following the turbo domination, forced induction was allowed for two seasons before its eventual ban. The FIA regulations limited boost pressure, to 4 bar in qualifying in 1987 for 1.5 L turbo; and allowed a bigger 3.5 L formula. These seasons were still dominated by turbocharged engines, the Honda RA167E V6 supplying Nelson Piquet winning the 1987 Formula One season on a Williams also winning the constructors championship, followed by TAG-Porsche P01 V6 in McLaren then Honda again with the previous RA166E for Lotus then Ferrari's own 033D V6.
The rest of the grid was powered by the Ford GBA V6 turbo in Benetton, with the only naturally-aspirated engine, the DFV-derived Ford-Cosworth DFZ 3.5 L V8 outputting 575 hp (429 kW) in Tyrrell, Lola, AGS, March and Coloni.[13] The massively-powerful BMW M12/13 inline-four found in the Brabham BT55 tilted almost horizontally, and in upright position under the Megatron brand in Arrows and Ligier, producing 900 bhp (670 kW) at 3.8 bar in race in race trim, and an incredible 1,400–1,500 bhp (1,040–1,120 kW) at 5.5 bar of boost in qualifying-spec.[14] Zakspeed was building its own turbo inline-four, Alfa Romeo was to power the Ligiers with an inline-four but the deal fell through after initial testing had been carried out. Alfa was still represented by its old 890T V8 used by Osella, and Minardi was powered by a Motori Moderni V6.
In 1988, six teams – McLaren, Ferrari, Lotus, Arrows, Osella and Zakspeed – continued with turbocharged engines, now limited to 2.5 bar. Honda's V6 turbo, the RA168E, which produced 685 hp (511 kW) at 12,300 rpm in qualifying,[15] powered the McLaren MP4/4 with which Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost won fifteen of the sixteen races between them. The Italian Grand Prix was won by Gerhard Berger in the Ferrari F1/87/88C, powered by the team's own V6 turbo, the 033E, with about 620 hp (462 kW) at 12,000 rpm in qualifying.[16] The Honda turbo also powered Lotus's 100T, while Arrows continued with the Megatron-badged BMW turbo, Osella continued with the Alfa Romeo V8 (now badged as an Osella) and Zakspeed continued with their own straight-4 turbo. All the other teams used naturally aspirated 3.5 L V8 engines: Benetton used the Cosworth DFR, which produced 585 hp (436 kW) at 11,000 rpm;[17] Williams, March and Ligier used the Judd CV, producing 600 hp (447 kW);[18] and the rest of the grid used the previous year's 575 hp (429 kW) Cosworth DFZ.
1989–1994[]
Turbochargers were banned from the 1989 Formula One season, leaving only a naturally aspirated 3.5 L formula. Honda was still dominant with their RA109E 72° V10 giving 685 hp (511 kW) @ 13,500 rpm on McLaren cars, enabling Prost to win the championship in front of his teammate Senna. Behind were the Renault RS01 powered Williams, a 67° V10 giving 650 hp (485 kW) @ 13,300 rpm. Ferrari with its 035/5 65° V12 giving 660 hp (492 kW) at 13,000 rpm. Behind, the grid was powered mainly by Ford Cosworth DFR V8 giving 620 hp (462 kW) @ 10,750 rpm except for a few Judd CV V8 in Lotus, Brabham and EuroBrun cars, and two oddballs: the 620 hp (460 kW) Lamborghini 3512 80° V12 powering Lola, and the 560 hp (420 kW) Yamaha OX88 75° V8 in Zakspeed cars. Ford started to try its new design, the 75° V8 HBA1 with Benetton.
The 1990 Formula One season was again dominated by Honda in McLarens with the 690 hp (515 kW) @ 13,500 rpm RA100E powering Ayrton Senna and Gerhard Berger ahead of the 680 hp (507 kW) @ 12,750 rpm Ferrari Tipo 036 of Alain Prost and Nigel Mansell. Behind them the Ford HBA4 for Benetton and Renault RS2 for Williams with 660 hp (492 kW) @ 12,800 rpm were leading the pack powered by Ford DFR and Judd CV engines. The exceptions were the Lamborghini 3512 in Lola and Lotus, and the new Judd EV 76° V8 giving 640 hp (477 kW) @ 12,500 rpm in Leyton House and Brabham cars. The two new contenders were the Life which built for themselves an F35 W12 with three four cylinders banks @ 60°, and Subaru giving Coloni a 1235 flat-12 from Motori Moderni
Honda was still leading the 1991 Formula One season in Senna's McLaren with the 725–760 hp (541–567 kW) @ 13,500-14,500 rpm 60° V12 RA121E, just ahead of the Renault RS3 powered Williams benefiting from 700 hp (520 kW) @ 12,500 rpm. Ferrari was behind with its Tipo 037, a new 65° V12 giving 710 hp (529 kW) @ 13,800 rpm also powering Minardi, just ahead the Ford HBA4/5/6 in Benetton and Jordan cars. Behind, Tyrrell was using the previous Honda RA109E, Judd introduced its new GV with Dallara leaving the previous EV to Lotus, Yamaha were giving its 660 hp (492 kW) OX99 70° V12 to Brabham, Lamborghini engines were used by Modena and Ligier. Ilmor introduced its LH10, a 680 hp (507 kW) @ 13,000 rpm V10 which eventually became the Mercedes with Leyton House and Porsche sourced a little successful 3512 V12 to Footwork Arrows; the rest of the field was Ford DFR powered.
In 1992, the Renault engines became dominant, even more so following the departure from the sport of Honda at the end of 1992. The 3.5 L Renault V10 engines powering the Williams F1 team produced a power output between 750–820 bhp (559–611 kW; 760–831 PS) @ 13,000 - 14,500 rpm toward the end of the 3.5 L naturally-aspirated era, between 1992 and 1994. Renault-engined cars won the last three consecutive world constructors' championships of the 3.5 L formula era with Williams (1992-1994).
The Peugeot A4 V10, used by the McLaren Formula One team in 1994, initially developed 700 bhp (522 kW; 710 PS) @ 14,250 rpm. It was later further developed into the A6, which produced even more power, developing 760 bhp (567 kW; 771 PS) @ 14,500 rpm.
The Ford EC Zetec-R V8, which powered the championship-winning Benetton team and Michael Schumacher in 1994, produced between 730–740 bhp (544–552 kW; 740–750 PS) @ 14,500 rpm.[19]
By the end of the 1994 season, Ferrari's Tipo 043 V12 was putting out around 850 hp (634 kW)[20] @ 15,800 rpm, which is to date the most-powerful naturally-aspirated V12 engine ever used in Formula One.[21]
1995–2005[]
This era used a 3.0 L formula, with the power range varying (depending on engine tuning), between 650 hp (485 kW) and 1,000 hp (746 kW), depending on the RPM, and from eight to twelve cylinders. Renault was the initial dominant engine supplier from 1995 until 1997, winning the first three world championships with Williams and Benetton in this era. The championship-winning 1995 Benetton B195 produced a power output of 675 hp (503.3 kW) @ 15,200 rpm, and the 1996 championship-winning Williams FW18 produced 700 hp (522.0 kW) @ 16,000 rpm; both from a shared Renault RS9 3.0 L V10 engine.[22][23] The 1997 championship-winning FW19 produced between 730–760 hp (544.4–566.7 kW) @ 16,000 rpm, from its Renault RS9B 3.0 L V10. Between 1995 to 2000, cars using this 3.0 L engine formula, imposed by the FIA produced a constant power range (depending on engine type and tuning), varying between 600 hp and 815 hp. Most Formula One cars during the 1997 season comfortably produced a consistent power output of between 665–760 hp (495.9–566.7 kW), depending on whether a V8 or V10 engine configuration was used.[24] From 1998 to 2000 it was Mercedes' power that ruled giving Mika Häkkinen two world championships. The 1999 McLaren MP4/14 produced between 785 and 810 hp @ 17,000 rpm. Ferrari gradually improved their engine. In 1996, they changed from their traditional V12 engine to a smaller and lighter V10 engine. They preferred reliability to power, losing out to Mercedes in terms of outright power initially. Ferrari's first V10 engine, in 1996, produced 715 hp (533 kW) @ 15,550 rpm,[25] down on power from their most powerful 3.5 L V12 (in 1994), which produced over 830 hp (619 kW) @ 15,800 rpm, but up on power from their last 3.0 L V12 (in 1995), which produced 700 hp (522 kW) @ 17,000 rpm. At the 1998 Japanese GP, Ferrari's 047D engine spec was said to produce over 800 bhp (600 kW), and from 2000 onward, they were never short of power or reliability. To keep costs down, the 3.0 V10 engine configuration was made fully mandatory for all teams in 2000 so that engine builders would not develop and experiment with other configurations.[26] The V10 configuration had been the most popular since the banning of turbocharged engines in 1989, and no other configuration had been used since 1998.
BMW started supplying its engines to Williams from 2000. The engine was very reliable in the first season though slightly short of power compared to Ferrari and Mercedes units. The BMW E41-powered Williams FW22 produced around 810 hp @ 17,500 rpm, during the 2000 season.[27] BMW went straight forward with its engine development. The P81, used during the 2001 season, was able to hit 17,810 rpm. Unfortunately, reliability was a big issue with several blowups during the season.
The BMW P82, the engine used by the BMW WilliamsF1 Team in 2002, had hit a peak speed of 19,050 revolutions a minute in its final evolutionary stage. It was also the first engine in the 3.0 litre V10-era to break through the 19,000 rpm-wall, during the 2002 Italian Grand Prix's qualifying.[28] BMW's P83 engine used in 2003 season managed an impressive 19,200 rpm and cleared the 900 bhp (670 kW) mark, at around 940 bhp, and weighs less than 200 lb (91 kg).[29] Honda's RA003E V10 also cleared the 900 bhp (670 kW) mark at the 2003 Canadian Grand Prix.[30]
In 2005, the 3.0 L V10 engine was permitted no more than 5 valves per cylinder.[31] Also, the FIA introduced new regulations limiting each car to one engine per two Grand Prix weekends, putting the emphasis on increased reliability. In spite of this, power outputs continued to rise. Mercedes engines had about 930 bhp (690 kW) in this season. Renault, Ferrari, and BMW engines all produced around 900 bhp (670 kW) to 950 bhp (710 kW) @ 19,000 RPM. Honda had about 965 bhp (720 kW).[32][33] Toyota engines had about 1,000 bhp (750 kW), according to Toyota Motorsport's executive Vice President, Yoshiaki Kinoshita.[34] However, for reliability and longevity purposes, this power figure may have been detuned to around 940 bhp (700 kW) for races.[35]
2006–2013[]
For 2006, the engines had to be 90° V8 of 2.4 litres maximum capacity with a circular bore of 98 mm (3.9 in) maximum, which implies a 39.8 mm (1.57 in) stroke at maximum bore. The engines must have two inlet and two exhaust valves per cylinder, be naturally-aspirated and have a 95 kg (209 lb) minimum weight. The previous year's engines with a rev-limiter were permitted for 2006 and 2007 for teams who were unable to acquire a V8 engine, with Scuderia Toro Rosso using a Cosworth V10, after Red Bull's takeover of the former Minardi team did not include the new engines.[36] The 2006 season saw the highest rev limits in the history of Formula One, at well over 20,000 rpm; before a 19,000 rpm mandatory rev limiter was implemented for all competitors in 2007. Cosworth was able to achieve just over 20,000 rpm with their V8,[37] and Renault around 20,500 rpm. Honda did the same; albeit only on the dyno.
Pre-cooling air before it enters the cylinders, injection of any substance other than air and fuel into the cylinders, variable-geometry intake, and exhaust systems, and variable valve timing were forbidden. Each cylinder could have only one fuel injector and a single plug spark ignition. Separate starting devices were used to start engines in the pits and on the grid. The crankcase and cylinder block had to be made of cast or wrought aluminium alloys. The crankshaft and camshafts had to be made from an iron alloy, pistons from an aluminium alloy, and valves from alloys based on iron, nickel, cobalt or titanium. These restrictions were in place to reduce development costs on the engines.[38]
The reduction in capacity was designed to give a power reduction of around 20% from the three-litre engines, to reduce the increasing speeds of Formula One cars. Despite this, in many cases, the performance of the car improved. In 2006 Toyota F1 announced an approximate 740 hp (552 kW) output at 18,000 rpm for its new RVX-06 engine,[39] but real figures are of course difficult to obtain. Most cars from this period (2006-2008) produced a regular power output of approximately between 730 and 785 hp @ 19,000 RPM (over 20,000 RPM for the 2006 season).[40]
The engine specification was frozen in 2007 to keep development costs down. The engines which were used in the 2006 Japanese Grand Prix were used for the 2007 and 2008 seasons and they were limited to 19,000 rpm. In 2009 the limit was reduced to 18,000 rpm with each driver allowed to use a maximum of 8 engines over the season. Any driver needing an additional engine is penalised 10 places on the starting grid for the first race the engine is used. This increases the importance of reliability, although the effect is only seen towards the end of the season. Certain design changes intended to improve engine reliability may be carried out with permission from the FIA. This has led to some engine manufacturers, notably Ferrari and Mercedes, exploiting this ability by making design changes which not only improve reliability but also boost engine power output as a side effect. As the Mercedes engine was proven to be the strongest, re-equalisations of engines were allowed by the FIA to allow other manufacturers to match the power.[41]
2009 saw the exit of Honda from Formula One. The team was acquired by Ross Brawn, creating Brawn GP and the BGP 001. With the absence of the Honda engine, Brawn GP retrofitted the Mercedes engine to the BGP 001 chassis. The newly branded team won both the Constructors' Championship and the Drivers' Championship from better-known and better-established contenders Ferrari, McLaren-Mercedes, and Renault.
Cosworth, absent since the 2006 season, returned in 2010. New teams Lotus Racing, HRT, and Virgin Racing, along with the established Williams, used this engine. The season also saw the withdrawal of the BMW and Toyota engines, as the car companies withdrew from Formula One due to the recession.[42]
In 2009, constructors were allowed to use kinetic energy recovery systems (KERS), also called regenerative brakes. Energy can either be stored as mechanical energy (as in a flywheel) or as electrical energy (as in a battery or supercapacitor), with a maximum power of 81 hp (60 kW; 82 PS). Four teams used it at some point in the season: Ferrari, Renault, BMW, and McLaren.
Although KERS was still legal in F1 in the 2010 season, all the teams agreed not to use it. KERS returned for the 2011 season when only three teams elected not to use it. For the 2012 season, only Marussia and HRT raced without KERS, and in 2013 all teams on the grid had KERS. From 2010 to 2013 cars have a regular power of 700–800 hp, averaging around 750 hp @ 18,000 RPM.[43]
2014–2021[]
The FIA announced to change the 2.4-litre V8 to 1.6-litre V6 hybrid engines for the 2014 season. The new regulations allow kinetic and heat energy recovery systems.[44] Forced induction is now allowed, and instead of limiting the boost level, fuel flow restriction at 100 kg of gasoline per hour maximum is introduced. They sounded very different due to the lower rev limit (15,000 rpm) and the turbocharger. While superchargers are allowed, all constructors opted to use a turbo.
The new formula allows turbocharged engines, which last appeared in 1988. These have their efficiency improved through turbo-compounding by recovering energy from exhaust gases.[45] The original proposal for four-cylinder turbocharged engines was not welcomed by the racing teams, in particular Ferrari. Adrian Newey stated during the 2011 European Grand Prix that the change to a V6 enables teams to carry the engine as a stressed member, whereas an inline-4 would have required a space frame. A compromise was reached to allow V6 forced induction engines instead.[45] The engines rarely exceed 12,000 rpm during qualifying and race, due to the new fuel flow restrictions.[46]
Energy recovery systems such as KERS had a boost of 160 hp (120 kW) and 2 megajoules per lap. KERS was renamed Motor Generator Unit–Kinetic (MGU-K). Heat energy recovery systems were also allowed, under the name Motor Generator Unit–Heat (MGU-H)
The 2015 season was an improvement on 2014, adding about 30–50 hp (20–40 kW) to most engines, the Mercedes engine being the most powerful with 870 hp (649 kW). In 2019, Renault's engine was claimed to have hit 1,000 hp in qualifying trim.[47]
Of the previous manufacturers, only Mercedes, Ferrari and Renault produced engines to the new formula in 2014, whereas Cosworth stopped supplying engines. Honda returned in 2015 with their own engine, while McLaren used Honda power changing from Mercedes power in 2014. In 2019, Red Bull switched from using a Renault engine to Honda power. Honda supplies both Red Bull and AlphaTauri. Honda are due to withdraw as a power unit supplier at the end of 2021, with Red Bull taking over the project onwards and producing the engine in house.[48]
2022 and beyond[]
In 2017, the FIA began negotiations with existing constructors and potential new manufacturers over the next generation of engines with a projected introduction date of 2021 but delayed to 2022 due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemics.[49] The initial proposal was designed to simplify engine designs, cut costs, promote new entries and address criticisms directed at the 2014 generation of engines. It called for the 1.6 L V6 configuration to be retained, but abandoned the complex Motor Generator Unit–Heat (MGU-H) system.[50] The Motor Generator Unit–Kinetic (MGU-K) would be more powerful, with a greater emphasis on driver deployment and a more flexible introduction to allow for tactical use. The proposal also called for the introduction of standardised components and design parameters to make components produced by all manufacturers compatible with one another in a system dubbed "plug in and play".[50] A further proposal to allow four-wheel drive cars was also made, with the front axle driven by an MGU-K unit—as opposed to the traditional driveshaft—that functioned independently of the MGU-K providing power to the rear axle, mirroring the system developed by Porsche for the 919 Hybrid race car.[51][52]
Engine specification progression[]
| Years | Operating principle[note 1] |
Maximum displacement | Revolution limit |
Configuration | Fuel | Camshaft configuration | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Naturally aspirated |
Forced induction |
Alcohol | Gasoline | |||||
| 2014–2021[note 2] | 4-stroke piston | 1.6 L[note 3][53][54] | 15,000 rpm | 90° V6 + MGUs | 5.75%[note 4] | High-octane unleaded[55] | Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) | |
| 2009–2013[note 5] | 2.4 L | Prohibited | 18,000 rpm | 90° V8 + KERS | ||||
| 2008 | 19,000 rpm | 90° V8 | ||||||
| 2007 | Prohibited | |||||||
| 2006[note 6][56] | Unrestricted[57] | |||||||
| 2000–2005 | 3.0 L | V10 | ||||||
| 1995–1999 | Up to 12 cylinders | |||||||
| 1992–1994 | 3.5 L | |||||||
| 1989–1991 | Unrestricted | |||||||
| 1988 | 1.5 L, 2.5 bar | Unrestricted | ||||||
| 1987 | 1.5 L, 4 bar | |||||||
| 1986 | Prohibited | 1.5 L | ||||||
| 1981–1985 | 3.0 L | |||||||
| 1966–1980 | Unspecified | |||||||
| 1963–1965 | 1.5 L (1.3 L min.) |
Prohibited | Pump[58] | |||||
| 1961–1962 | Unrestricted | |||||||
| 1958–1960 | 2.5 L | 0.75 L | ||||||
| 1954–1957 | Unrestricted | |||||||
| 1947–1953[note 7] | 4.5 L | 1.5 L | ||||||
Note:
- ^ 2-stroke, gas turbine, rotary, etc.
- ^ MGU(Motor Generator Unit)-Kinetic (brake) and MGU-Heat (exhaust) energy recovery systems allowed.
- ^ Naturally aspirated engines are not prohibited, but have not been used by any team. Boost pressure is not limited, but fuel flow rate (which was not regulated up to 2013) is limited to 100 kg per hour (roughly equivalent to 3.5 bar at the maximum rpm).[citation needed]
- ^ 5.75% bio-sourced alcohol content is required in pump-petroleum.
- ^ Kinetic (braking) energy recovery system (KERS) allowed.
- ^ For 2006 and 2007, the FIA reserved the right to give special dispensations to teams without access to new specification engines to use 2005-spec engines with a rev-limiter. This dispensation was given to Scuderia Toro Rosso in 2006.
- ^ For 1952 and 1953, World Championship races were run to Formula Two rules (0.75 L with compressor, 2 L without), but Formula One regulations remained intact.
Current engine technical specifications[]
Combustion, construction, operation, power, fuel and lubrication[]
- Manufacturers: Mercedes, Renault, Ferrari and Honda
- Type: Hybrid-powered intercooled
- Engine stroke combustion: Four-stroke piston Otto cycle
- Configuration: V6 single hybrid turbocharged engine
- V-angle: 90° cylinder angle
- Displacement: 1.6 L (98 cu in)
- Bore: Maximum 80 mm (3.15 in)
- Stroke: 53 mm (2.09 in)
- Valvetrain: DOHC, 24-valve (four valves per cylinder)
- Fuel: 98–102 RON unleaded gasoline + 5.75% biofuel
- Fuel delivery: Gasoline direct injection
- Fuel injection pressure: 500 bar (7,252 psi; 493 atm; 375,031 Torr; 50,000 kPa; 14,765 inHg)
- Fuel-mass flow restrictor rate: 100 kg/h (220 lb/h) (−40%)
- Fuel economy mileage range: 6 mpg‑US (39.20 L/100 km)
- Aspiration: Single-turbocharged
- Power output: 875–1,000 + 160 hp (652–746 + 119 kW) @ 10,500 rpm
- Torque: Approx. 600–680 N⋅m (443–502 lb⋅ft)
- Lubrication: Dry sump
- Maximum revs: 15,000 RPM
- Engine management: McLaren TAG-320 (2014-2018) later TAG-320B (2019-present)
- Max. speed: 370 km/h (230 mph)
- Cooling: Single mechanical water pump feeding a single-front cooling system
- Ignition: High energy inductive
- Banned engine materials: Magnesium-based alloys, Metal Matrix Composites (MMCs), intermetallic materials, alloys containing more than 5% by weight of platinum, ruthenium, iridium or rhenium, copper-based alloys containing more than 2.75% beryllium, any other alloy class containing more than 0.25% beryllium, tungsten-based alloys and ceramics, and ceramic-matrix composites
- Weight: 145 kg (320 lb) overall including headers, clutch, ECU, spark box or filters
Forced induction and push-to-pass[]
- Turbocharger vendors: Garrett Motion (Ferrari), IHI Corporation (Honda), Mercedes AMG HPP (in-house Mercedes) and (Renault)
- Turbocharger weight: 8 kg (18 lb) depending on the turbine housing used
- Turbocharger spin rev limit: 125,000 rpm
- Pressure charging: Single-stage compressor and exhaust turbine, a common shaft
- Turbo boost level pressure: Unlimited but mainly typical 4.0 to 5.0 bar (58.02 to 72.52 psi; 3.95 to 4.93 atm; 3,000.25 to 3,750.31 Torr; 400.00 to 500.00 kPa; 118.12 to 147.65 inHg) absolute
- Wastegate: Maximum of two, electronic or pneumatic controlled
ERS systems[]
- MGU-K RPM: Max 50,000 rpm
- MGU-K power: Max 120 kW
- Energy recovered by MGU-K: Max 2 MJ/lap
- Energy released by MGU-K: Max 4 MJ/lap
- MGU-H RPM: >100,000 rpm
- Energy recovered by MGU-H: Unlimited (> 2 MJ/lap)
Records[]
Figures correct as of the 2021 Italian Grand Prix
Bold indicates engine manufacturers that are competing in Formula One in the 2021 season.
World Championship Grand Prix wins by engine manufacturer[]
^ * Built by Ilmor between 1997 and 2005
^ *** Built by Porsche
^ **** The Indianapolis 500 was part of the World Drivers' Championship from 1950 to 1960.
Most wins in a season[]
By number[]
| Rank | Manufacturer | Season | Races | Wins | Percentage | Engine(s) | Winning team(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mercedes | 2016 | 21 | 19 | 90.5% | PU106C Hybrid | Mercedes |
| 2 | Renault | 1995 | 17 | 16 | 94.1% | RS7 | Benetton, Williams |
| Mercedes | 2014 | 19 | 84.2% | PU106A Hybrid | Mercedes | ||
| 2015 | 19 | 84.2% | PU106B Hybrid | Mercedes | |||
| 5 | Ford | 1973 | 15 | 15 | 100% | DFV | Lotus, Tyrrell, McLaren |
| Honda | 1988 | 16 | 93.8% | RA168E | McLaren | ||
| Ferrari | 2002 | 17 | 88.2% | Tipo 050, Tipo 051 | Ferrari | ||
| 2004 | 18 | 83.3% | Tipo 053 | Ferrari | |||
| Mercedes | 2019 | 21 | 71.4% | M10 EQ Power+ | Mercedes | ||
| 10 | Renault | 2013 | 19 | 14 | 73.7% | RS27-2013 | Lotus, Red Bull |
By percentage[]
| Rank | Manufacturer | Season | Races | Wins | Percentage | Engine(s) | Winning team(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ford | 1969 | 11 | 11 | 100% | DFV | Matra, Brabham, Lotus, McLaren |
| 1973 | 15 | 15 | DFV | Lotus, Tyrrell, McLaren | |||
| 3 | Renault | 1995 | 17 | 16 | 94.1% | RS7 | Benetton, Williams |
| 4 | Honda | 1988 | 16 | 15 | 93.8% | RA168E | McLaren |
| 5 | Ford | 1968 | 12 | 11 | 91.7% | DFV | Lotus, McLaren, Matra |
| 6 | Mercedes | 2016 | 21 | 19 | 90.5% | PU106C Hybrid | Mercedes |
| 7 | Ferrari | 2002 | 17 | 15 | 88.2% | Tipo 050, Tipo 051 | Ferrari |
| 8 | Ferrari* | 1952 | 8 | 7 | 87.5% | Tipo 500, Tipo 375 | Ferrari |
| 9 | Alfa Romeo** | 1950 | 7 | 6 | 85.7% | Tipo 158, Tipo 159 | Alfa Romeo |
| 10 | Mercedes | 2014 | 19 | 16 | 84.2% | PU106A Hybrid | Mercedes |
| 2015 | 19 | 16 | PU106B Hybrid | Mercedes |
* Only Alberto Ascari raced in the 1952 Indianapolis 500 with Ferrari.
** Alfa Romeo did not race in the 1950 Indianapolis 500.
Most consecutive wins[]
| Rank | Manufacturer | Wins | Season(s) | Races | Engine(s) | Winning team(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ford | 22 | 1972, 1973, 1974 | 1972 Austrian Grand Prix – 1974 South African Grand Prix | DFV | Lotus, Tyrrell, McLaren, Brabham |
| 2 | Ford | 20 | 1968, 1969, 1970 | 1968 British Grand Prix – 1970 Monaco Grand Prix | DFV | Lotus, Matra, McLaren, Brabham, March |
| 3 | Renault | 16 | 1995, 1996 | 1995 French Grand Prix – 1996 San Marino Grand Prix | RS7, RS8 | Benetton, Williams |
| 4 | Honda | 11 | 1988 | 1988 Brazilian Grand Prix – 1988 Belgian Grand Prix | RA168E | McLaren |
| 5 | Ferrari | 10 | 2002 | 2002 Canadian Grand Prix – 2002 Japanese Grand Prix | Tipo 051 | Ferrari |
| Mercedes | 2015, 2016 | 2015 Japanese Grand Prix – 2016 Russian Grand Prix | PU106B Hybrid, PU106C Hybrid | Mercedes | ||
| 2016 | 2016 Monaco Grand Prix – 2016 Singapore Grand Prix | PU106C Hybrid | Mercedes | |||
| 2018, 2019 | 2018 Brazilian Grand Prix – 2019 French Grand Prix | M09 EQ Power+, M10 EQ Power+ | Mercedes | |||
| 9 | Ford | 9 | 1980, 1981 | 1980 Dutch Grand Prix – 1981 Belgian Grand Prix | DFV | Brabham, Williams |
| Renault | 2013 | 2013 Belgian Grand Prix – 2013 Brazilian Grand Prix | RS27-2013 | Red Bull |
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External links[]
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