F1 engines could get louder in 2026, says Domenicali

Domenicali also shut down the idea of full electrification quickly, stating "Formula 1 is not electric."

During a recent interview, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali stated that engine noise could improve with the upcoming 2026 regulations.

F1 cars currently use a 1.6-litre turbocharged hybrid V6 engine, which is regarded as the quietest powertrain in the history of the sport. With the upcoming 2026 regulation changes, the powertrain will rely more heavily on hybrid assistance while retaining the 1.6-litre turbocharged V6 engine, which "on paper" looks less promising in terms of engine noise.

However, the F1 CEO believes that despite the additional hybrid assistance, the sound generated by the powertrain will improve. He stated, "Of course, we need to be hybrid, we're [going to be] hybrid for the future but the intention is to make sure in the new regulation, the engine sound will be higher." He further added, "It's part of our emotion, it's really what our fans want to hear and that's our duty for us to commit to that."

Domenicali also shut down the idea of full electrification quickly, stating "Formula 1 is not electric." The sport is working towards the use of sustainable fuels with its hybrid powertrains for the future.

Source: TheDrive