While the discussions begin about the direction in which a new generation of engines should go with VW group members Porsche and Audi, the existing hybrid concept is to be retained for the time being. But the engines run on completely sustainable fuel and the electrical power offered is increasing.
However, Red Bull has questioned whether this is the way to go. Horner suggests that a normal high-speed engine running on sustainable fuel would be good for the environment as well as popular with fans.
At the UK Grand Prix, Horner said, “I think the internal combustion engine has a future so why not introduce high rev engines that sound great and do it in an environmentally friendly way?
“I think biofuels and sustainable fuels allow you to do that.”
Horner says there are doubts that all-electric powertrains are the way to go, and thinks an F1 that delivers screaming engines reminiscent of the V10 era that ended in 2005 would be a huge hit.
“Electrification, I know it is being pushed politically, but is that actually the right way for 25 and 30 years?” Horner added.
“I think Formula 1 could play a key role with fuels and with the fuel partners we have for sustainability and zero emissions with a powerful, easy-revving engine.
“Wouldn’t it be fantastic if we took this route? I am sure that every Grand Prix will be full. “
Christian Horner, Team Principal, Red Bull Racing
Photo by: Mark Sutton / Motorsport Images
But Horner’s idea of turning away from the current plans does not find consistent support from other manufacturers.
Mercedes F1 team boss Toto Wolff believes that the current generation of fans would actually not be in favor of loud engines.
“I wouldn’t agree with Christian because we think so, but we are no longer the most relevant generation,” he said.
“If you ask an 18- or 22-year-old what relevance noise is, most of these guys will be consuming them on different screens where noise is of little or no relevance.
“Personally, I like it too, and I would like a twelve-cylinder that screams down the street. But actually we are a sport and we are a business.
“I think we would be completely irrelevant to our partners, sponsors and key stakeholders if we weren’t careful about the environment and the impact we’re making.
“I think it would be completely misaligned where the world is going and would probably dissuade every single business partner from Formula 1 if we stick to internal combustion engines that scream even if we like them.”
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