Audi is pushing back hard against FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem's vision for Formula 1's 2031 power units. Ben Sulayem advocates for a return to naturally aspirated V8s, citing reduced complexity, cost-effectiveness, and a more visceral sound with sustainable fuels. However, Audi CEO Gernot Dollner declared his company's firm preference for turbos, emphasizing energy efficiency as a core priority. Audi’s new V8-turbo hybrid supercar, the Nuvolari, highlights their belief in forced induction. Dollner clarified this isn't a deal-breaker for Audi's F1 entry, but they expect robust discussions.

Separately, debates intensify over potential 2027 hardware changes to the current power unit rules. While Mercedes and Red Bull favor adjusting the ICE/electrical split, Cadillac, Ferrari, and Audi express reservations. The American challenger, alongside Ferrari, resists opening engine development, while Audi cites cost concerns. This puts American interests squarely in the engine manufacturer discussions, demanding stability as they build towards their F1 future.

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