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.
Horner said at the UK Grand Prix: “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 biofuel and sustainable fuels will allow you to do that.”
Also read:
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 path 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’m sure every Grand Prix would be full.”
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 12-cylinder that screams on the street. But we’re actually a sport and we’re a business.
“I think we would become irrelevant to our partners, sponsors and key stakeholders if we weren’t careful about the environment and the impact we make.
“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.”
The post Horner and Wolff argue about F1 engine plans from 2025 first appeared on monter-une-startup.
