F1 drivers' common ground highlighted over key desire

Haas F1 driver Oliver Bearman has stated drivers are aligned in wanting to see the return of a V8 or V10 engine in the next set of technical regulations.

F1 has been using V6 turbo hybrid power units since the 2014 season, which saw its biggest change this year with a boost in electrical power and the introduction of 100 per cent sustainable fuels.

However, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has already suggested that the next cycle of regulations could see the return of a V8 engine.

Addressing the current power unit, Bearman has praised the work carried out by F1 across the last 12 years to develop the engine technology.

“F1 has done an incredible job leading the forefront in the development of the power unit,” he told media including RacingNews365.

“Those things are going to eventually trickle down to people with road cars as well.

“For example, sustainable fuel, they've pioneered that way and the fuel we're using today is fully sustainable, which is fantastic. 

“It's a bit expensive, but you have to start [somewhere]. They've done a great job on that.”

However, the Briton asserted that all drivers would be in favour of returning to an engine formula similar to those seen pre-2014.

“If there's a way to run this sustainable fuel and just have a normal engine, V8, V10, whatever it may be, I think all of us will be in favour of that,” he said.

“Let's see. I love the way that they're pioneering making steps forward all the time. 

“But of course, the driver in me and the petrol head would love to have those great-sounding engines and great-performing engines, that's for sure. 

“I've never driven an F1 car that's not a V6 hybrid. I'm going to drive one soon, so I'm quite excited for that.”