Formula Racing: How Engine Tech Shapes the FIA Ladder

From Naturally Aspirated to Hybrid Power: How F1, F2, and F3 Engines Compare

Formula racing has long been the pinnacle of motorsport, with Formula 1 (F1), Formula 2 (F2), and Formula 3 (F3) serving as the primary categories for developing and showcasing the world's top racing talent. While these series differ significantly in aerodynamics, chassis regulations, and budgets, one of the most defining distinctions comes in the form of their engine regulations. In 2025, with continued advancements in hybrid technology and sustainable fuels, the differences between F1, F2, and F3 engines remain stark. Here’s a breakdown of what sets them apart.

Formula 1 (F1) Engines: The Peak of Motorsport Engineering

Engine Type: 1.6L V6 Turbo Hybrid

Horsepower: Around 1,000 hp

Fuel: 100% sustainable fuel

Hybrid System: MGU-K and MGU-H with an advanced Energy Recovery System (ERS)

F1 engines in 2025 continue to represent the cutting edge of hybrid powertrain technology. Since the hybrid era began in 2014, Formula 1 has refined its 1.6-liter turbocharged V6 engines, with the 2025 regulations placing even more emphasis on sustainability.

• Sustainable Fuels: The sport has transitioned to using fully synthetic and bio-derived fuels to reduce carbon emissions.
• Hybrid Advancements: The MGU-H (Motor Generator Unit-Heat), which recovered energy from exhaust gases, has been removed for 2025 to simplify the power unit and reduce costs. However, the MGU-K (Motor Generator Unit-Kinetic) remains, playing a crucial role in energy recovery and deployment.
• Power Output: With the hybrid system contributing additional electric power, F1 cars in 2025 produce nearly 1,000 horsepower, ensuring they remain the fastest and most technologically advanced single-seaters in the world.
• Cost Cap Impact: While F1 teams still push the limits of engineering, budget restrictions have been in place to prevent excessive spending on engine development.

Formula 2 (F2) Engines: Standardized for Fair Competition

Engine Type: 3.4L Turbocharged V6

Horsepower: Around 620 hp

Fuel: Sustainable synthetic fuel

Hybrid System: None

Unlike F1, where manufacturers develop unique engines, Formula 2 features a spec engine, meaning every team runs the same power unit to ensure a level playing field. In 2025, Formula 2 continues to use a 3.4L turbocharged V6, provided by Mecachrome, which has been the exclusive supplier since 2018.

• No Hybrid System: Unlike F1, F2 does not use any energy recovery systems, making its power units simpler, more affordable, and easier to maintain.
• Lower Power Output: At around 620 horsepower, F2 engines produce significantly less power than their F1 counterparts, resulting in slower lap times. However, this still provides a challenging and competitive environment for developing drivers.
• Fuel Efficiency: Like F1, F2 has moved towards using synthetic and bio-derived fuels to align with motorsport’s push for sustainability.
• Cost Control: Since F2 is a spec series, all teams receive identical engines, ensuring that driver skill remains the primary differentiator rather than the budget available for power unit development.

Formula 3 (F3) Engines: Entry-Level Performance

Engine Type: 3.4L Naturally Aspirated V6

Horsepower: Around 380 hp

Fuel: Sustainable fuel

Hybrid System: None

Formula 3 serves as the stepping stone into professional single-seater racing, with an emphasis on driver development rather than technical complexity.

• Lower Power, Naturally Aspirated: Unlike F1 and F2, F3 uses a naturally aspirated engine, meaning there is no turbocharging. This results in smoother power delivery but less overall performance.
• Standardized Engines: Like F2, all teams in F3 use identical engines supplied by Mecachrome. This ensures cost control and fair competition.
• Simplified Performance: With around 380 horsepower, F3 cars are the slowest in the FIA single-seater ladder, but still provide enough speed and downforce to train young drivers for higher categories.
• Sustainability: The transition to synthetic fuels aligns with F1 and F2’s push towards sustainability, reducing emissions while maintaining performance.

Key Differences Between F1, F2, and F3 Engines in 2025

Category	F1 Engine	F2 Engine	F3 Engine
Engine Type	1.6L Turbo Hybrid V6	3.4L Turbo V6	3.4L Naturally Aspirated V6
Horsepower	~1,000 hp	~620 hp	~380 hp
Turbocharging	Yes	Yes	No
Hybrid System	MGU-K (Kinetic Energy Recovery)	None	None
Fuel Type	100% Sustainable Fuel	Sustainable Fuel	Sustainable Fuel
Manufacturer	Multiple (Ferrari, Mercedes, Red Bull Powertrains, Renault)	Single (Mecachrome)	Single (Mecachrome)
Cost & Development	Open development (within cost cap)	Spec engine, limited development	Spec engine, no development

Three Levels of Performance and Technology

The FIA’s structured single-seater ladder ensures that each level serves a distinct role in driver development, technological advancement, and competitive balance.

• Formula 1 represents the pinnacle of motorsport with its cutting-edge hybrid power units and sustainable fuel technology, pushing the boundaries of innovation.
• Formula 2 strikes a balance between performance and affordability, offering a spec turbocharged engine that emphasizes driver skill in a highly competitive environment.
• Formula 3, with its naturally aspirated power unit, provides an essential learning platform for young drivers stepping into professional single-seater racing.

As motorsport continues to evolve toward sustainability and financial accessibility, these differences ensure a clear and progressive path for aspiring drivers while preserving the excitement and integrity of open-wheel racing.