Alpine has commissioned a study into whether or not hydrogen internal combustion engines could represent the best path for the future of Formula 1.
The world automotive association FIA recently commissioned plans for the next generation of Formula 1 engines for the years 2026 to 2030. These are turbo hybrids that are operated with sustainable fuels.
However, there is debate about the longer-term future. Road vehicles are increasingly moving in the direction of electric drives. However, it is unlikely that electric motors and batteries will be powerful enough to power Formula 1 cars with their current performance parameters as early as 2031. The whole sport is facing a trend-setting decision.
Alpine believes that one possible option could be to switch to hydrogen propulsion. For this reason, the French manufacturer takes a detailed look at the advantages and disadvantages of using such a drive in Formula 1. At the moment Toyota is already active with hydrogen combustion engines in long-distance and rallying, but without competition.
“I don’t think the all-electric drive is ready”
In an interview with “Motorsport.com Global”, Alpine boss Laurent Rossi emphasizes that hydrogen has its appeal as a long-term solution, since fully electric drives for Formula 1 are not a viable option for a while.
“I don’t think the all-electric drive is ready,” he says. “It may take another 15 years from here. I don’t see that for the next iteration of the regulations or the one after that. We’ll take a look at hydrogen as a drive system. I’m convinced that the engine manufacturers in Formula 1 have a duty to help shape the regulations and come up with solutions.”
“For us, this is a good opportunity to kill two birds with one stone: hydrogen is significantly cleaner. Admittedly, not completely, but significantly better than traditional fuel. It is in abundance, while organic or synthetic fuel is limited – be it by the offer or the production costs.”
“And secondly, the sound stays. Maybe in 20 years people will forget about it because younger generations might care less about it and they might be used to silent cars on the road. But for now it’s an integral part of the show.”
“We must not forget that Formula 1 is entertainment. It is a business. But this business is based on people watching, enjoying and loving it. So we are looking at this path.”
Formula 1: Current drives produce around 1000 hp
According to Rossi, the aim of the study is to test whether hydrogen engines can achieve the necessary performance levels for Formula 1. The current drives produce around 1000 hp.
“Our role will be to inspire others, such as regulators,” he continues. “We would like to show that it works, but first we have to prove it to ourselves. We have to see if it’s more than a hope or a belief.”
“If it works, then we want to prove it. Let’s say, by means of a Garage 56 project in Le Mans or on the Nordschleife with one of our production vehicles that are equipped with a hydrogen combustion engine. That could then perhaps be the inspiration for be the rulers that there is a way.”
“If Porsche, Ferrari and other manufacturers want to follow different philosophies, then so be it. But it’s always better if we have several options on the table.”