Yamaha is developing a new V4 engine for Grand Prix motorcycle racing “MotoGP” according to recent reports. MotoGP is the world’s premier motorcycle championship and the highest class of motorcycle racing. This marks Yamaha moving away from the inline four-cylinder format of the engine to the V4 configuration. The debut of the new engine is expected to be as soon as December.
Last chance to put a V4 engine on track
Part of the decision to put a V4 engine on the track comes with the mandatory 2027 regulation which states that all engines must be 850cc. This comes as a reduction from current 1,000cc engines. These changes are intended to make the sport safer, more sustainable, and more efficient. To aid with the transition process, MotoGP has put an engine freeze on 2026 engines, meaning that 2025 engines will carry over to 2026.
The upcoming engine freeze means that next year is Yamaha’s last chance to put a V4 engine on the track before the new regulations kick in. They are currently the only ones in the championship series using an inline-four engine configuration. Andrea Dovizioso and Cal Crutchlow as test riders are suspected to be the test riders for the new engine once it makes its debut.
V4 offers significant advantages in high performance motorsport
The V4 engine design offers significant advantages over the inline-four engine setup. Its compact design allows for better space utilization and weight distribution. This makes it ideal for motorsport where balance and handling are crucial. The V4’s firing order provides smoother power delivery which reduces vibrations and enhances the throttle response, which is important for precision and control.
This configuration also delivers better high-RPM performance, making it well-suited for high power output and efficiency at higher speeds. Additionally, the natural balance of a V4 engine reduces the need for extra components like balance shafts. Furthermore, its distinctive exhaust note is highly prized by enthusiasts. However, the The V4 configuration, while offering smoother power delivery and unique performance characteristics, typically comes with a higher cost in terms of engineering complexity, weight, and overall cost to manufacture.
MotoGP plans to run on 100% sustainable fuel by 2027
In addition to the new engine regulations, MotoGP has announced that they plan to operate on 100% sustainable fuel by 2027. To transition to this goal, this year MotoGP used a minimum of 40% sustainable fuel. The fuels will be created in a lab using components from carbon capture schemes, municipal waste, or non-food biomass. The goal is to reduce the net carbon footprint to zero or as close as possible.
While MotoGP’s move to sustainability has received mixed review from fans, race organizers have seen that the writing is on the wall and that they need to set an example in motorsport to keeping up with climate needs. Other motorsport organizations are also racing towards ambitious climate goals. Formula 1 has said that they plan on reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.
Yamaha has been working on other sustainability projects outside of MotoGP. Earlier this year, they unveiled the world’s first hydrogen-powered outboard for recreational boats. Additionally, in 2022, they announced a partnership with Toyota where they planned to develop a hydrogen-engine for the Japanese automobile company.
With growing concerns over environmental impact and stricter emissions regulations, engine developers are exploring a variety of innovative technologies, including electric, hydrogen, and biofuel-powered engines. These alternative engine solutions are not just driven by environmental pressures, but also by the demand for more efficient, cost-effective, and energy-diverse transportation options. As these technologies mature, they are likely to play an increasing significant role in shaping the future of the automotive and motorsport industries.
