Numerical Simulation of Ethanol-Based Fuels in an F1 Power Unit

Formula (1) vehicles have transitioned from E5 to E10 fuel for the 2022 season to reduce carbon emissions and by 2026 the vehicles are required to use 100% sustainable fuels. The aim of this paper is to identify the operating envelope of the F1 power unit for E10-E100 fuel and the resulting emission levels for these fuel compositions using numerical simulations. To achieve this aim an F1 engine model has been developed in GT-Suite with reference to the FIA 2022 Technical Regulations. The combustion model has been validated using data obtained from literature relating to laminar and turbulent flame speed, friction and heat transfer characteristics within the combustion chamber. One of the main challenges of using ethanol-based fuels is the increased levels of formaldehyde in the tailpipe. This paper presents the operating window for achieving the optimum engine performance with ethanol fuel blends ranging from the current E10 to E100, in keeping with the current 2022 FIA F1 regulations and beyond 2026 where all fuel must be fully sustainable. The study showed that the estimated formaldehyde levels from 2026 Formula (1) engine is significantly higher than the current emission levels of automotive vehicles. This paper highlights the required regulatory changes to ensure the engine out aldehyde emissions meet WHO air quality standards.