Formula One engines must be
- Naturally Aspirated,
- Four-Stroke
- Internal Combustion
- Petrol Fuel
- Reciprocating Circular Pistons
- Maximum two Intake and two Exhaust Valves per Cylinder.
- V8 engines
- Maximum Displacement of 2.4 Litres.
- Devices designed to pre-cool air before it enters the cylinders are not allowed, nor is the injection of any substance into the cylinders other than air and fuel (petrol).
- Variable-length intake and exhaust systems are also forbidden.
- The crankshaft and camshafts must be made of steel or cast iron. The use of carbon composite materials for the cylinder block, cylinder head and pistons is not allowed.
- Kinetic energy recovery (hybrid technology) is permitted beginning in 2009 provided no more than 400 kJ is used in any one lap and no more than 60 kW (80 hp) in or out is permitted. In addition to one fully charged KERS the maximum recoverable energy stored on the car may not exceed 300 kJ.[1] To allow for taller, heavier drivers to race in a car with a KERS the weight allowance of the car was raised by 15 kg.
- For 2010, KERS were still permitted in Formula One, but all teams have agreed to go thoughout the 2010 season without using KERS systems due to the very expensive development and possible weight balance difficulties since larger fuel tanks would have to be used.
- Separate starting devices may be used to start engines in the pits and on the grid.
- If the engine is fitted with an anti-stall device, this must be set to cut the engine within ten seconds in the event of an accident.
- Each driver is allowed to use up to eight engines during a season. A ten place starting grid penalty will be applied at each event where an additional engine is used.
