Engine Design Considerations

The engine provides power to the wheels, in addition to the miscellaneous systems of the car.

600cc engine in finished formula racer

Fuel - 94 or 100 octane gasoline or E85 ethanol may be used. 100 octane and E85 fuels reduce the risk of knocking and allow higher power output, but burn best in high compression engines.
Power - Once an engine is chosen, it is advisable to determine ways to maximize the power. Careful tuning on a dynamometer can optimize an engine for racing. Intake modifications like a turbocharger increase operating pressures and power.
Engine Management - Most high performance engines are managed by an Engine Control Unit or ECU. The ECU can control factors like fuel flow and spark timing. The ECU must be tuned based on the exact engine setup to get the most out of the engine.
Intake - The rules require the intake air to pass through a 20mm restrictor. This reduces the air available to the cylinders, and therefore the power. Increasing the air flow through the restrictor minimizes the power loss.
Cooling - An overheated engine can seize up and be destroyed. This is especially a concern during the endurance race. Liquid cooling is standard, but the system must be large enough to handle all the excess heat without taking up too much space or power.
Lubrication - With engine speeds sometimes approaching 15,000 RPM, lubrication is critical. During high speed cornering, however, oil may slosh away from the pickup, leaving the pistons temporarily unprotected. Dry sumps oil pans and oil accumulators are common solutions.