Why Formula 1 can't go fully electric? What is FIA-FE deal which stops F1? - Explained

Formula 1 is renowned as the pinnacle of motorsport, which is famous for pushing technological boundaries while maintaining its identity as the home of the fastest race cars on the planet. In recent years, many industries have begun transitioning toward electric solutions, leading some fans to wonder if F1 will eventually go fully electric. However, there are key reasons preventing such a move, at least for the foreseeable future.

The Need for Speed: F1’s Unique Identity

F1 is built on its reputation for speed, cutting-edge engineering, and exhilarating races. Moving to fully electric vehicles could compromise this. Currently, hybrid engines, which is a combination of the traditional internal combustion engines (ICE) with electric power, offer the best balance between performance and sustainability. 

If F1 were to switch to fully electric powertrains now, it wouldn't be able to retain its title as the fastest racing series. Other series, such as the World Endurance Championship (WEC) and IndyCar, could surpass F1's speed capabilities.

Notably, F1's hybrid engines allow for incredible power and efficiency, which is a key part of why the sport maintains its reputation as the fastest track racing series. Transitioning to fully electric power, in contrast, would significantly slow the cars down under current technology, limiting the sport's appeal.

The Role of Formula E and FIA’s Electric Rights Deal

One of the primary reasons F1 can't go fully electric lies in its connection with the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) and Formula E. Formula E, the all-electric single-seater racing series, holds exclusive rights as the FIA-sanctioned electric series. This agreement gives Formula E control over electric racing under the FIA umbrella, at least until the next few years. As long as these rights are in place, F1 cannot transition to fully electric engines without Formula E's express permission.

Alejandro Agag, the founder of Formula E, has previously highlighted this exclusivity, emphasizing that F1 would need to negotiate a deal to move into the electric racing space. Until that happens, Formula 1 is effectively locked out of becoming a fully electric series.

Hybrid Technology and Sustainable Fuels

Another reason F1 isn’t rushing toward full electrification is the development of hybrid technology and sustainable fuels. Major automotive manufacturers like Mercedes and Audi are heavily invested in hybrid powertrains and the development of alternative, sustainable fuels. The hybrid era in F1, which began in 2014, was a calculated step toward creating a sustainable future without sacrificing performance.

The ultimate goal for F1 is to achieve carbon neutrality while preserving the intense competition and speed for which it is known. This can be done through the use of biofuels or hydrogen fuel cells in combination with electric components, allowing the sport to stay innovative while meeting future environmental standards.

The Future of Motorsport

While Formula E already pioneers fully electric technology, F1 seems more inclined to maintain its hybrid path for now. As technology progresses, there may be potential for hydrogen fuel cells or other groundbreaking innovations that could revolutionize the sport without sacrificing the characteristics that make it unique. Going fully electric might be an option someday, but for now, F1 is taking the best route forward with hybrid engines and sustainable fuels.