🤔What’s the answer to F1’s engine conundrum?

The first time I saw a Formula 1 hybrid turbo power unit in the flesh, I was blown away by how tiny the engine block was for something capable of producing 1000bhp. Then consider its amazing thermal efficiency, coupled with the huge development costs it has taken to get there. Again, it’s mind-blowing.

Honda’s upcoming withdrawal as an engine supplier is because it has pledged, as a car company, to become a carbon neutral company by 2050. Having only three engine manufacturers leaves F1 exposed, especially in a time of pandemic-driven uncertainty, but it remains in thrall to those manufacturer millions. Quite the conundrum.

As Jonathan Noble writes below, this breed of power unit is around to stay. But I think F1 also needs a Plan B, as Renault’s Cyril Abiteboul seems to be suggesting, that’s more economically and environmentally sustainable.

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