A Formula 1 car is one of the most complex and technologically advanced machines ever built. Although the question seems simple, the true cost of an F1 car is the result of hundreds of engineering hours, aerospace-grade materials, restricted technologies and components produced almost entirely by hand. Still, it is possible to estimate its value based on data shared by teams and official suppliers.
Below is a complete breakdown of how much a modern Formula 1 car costs.
1. Approximate total cost of a Formula 1 car
A complete Formula 1 car costs on average:
Between €12 million and €18 million.
This does not include expenses such as:
- research and development
- simulation and software
- aerodynamic testing
- logistics and transport
- team operations
This estimate refers only to the physical car ready to run on track.
2. Cost of the main components
2.1 Power unit (hybrid engine)
The current V6 hybrid engines include the turbocharger, MGU-H, MGU-K, battery packs and complex recovery systems.
Estimated cost: €4.5–5.5 million.
2.2 Carbon-fibre monocoque chassis
Built by hand using aerospace materials and processes.
Estimated cost: €1.0–1.5 million.
2.3 Aerodynamics (wings, floor, airflow components)
Aerodynamics is responsible for the majority of performance.
- One front wing: ~€150,000
- Annual aerodynamic development: €1.5–3 million
2.4 Braking system
Carbon–carbon discs, advanced calipers and cooling systems.
Estimated cost: €200,000–300,000.
2.5 Formula 1 steering wheel
A highly sophisticated electronic unit with telemetry, dozens of controls and custom materials.
Estimated cost: €40,000–60,000.
2.6 Suspension
Made from titanium and carbon fibre with integrated sensors.
Estimated cost: ~€300,000.
2.7 Tyres
Supplied exclusively by Pirelli.
- Cost per set: ~€2,000
- Used per weekend: 10–13 sets per car
3. Maintenance and operational costs
Even after assembly, maintaining a Formula 1 car is extremely expensive. Engines have limited mileage, aerodynamic parts are frequently replaced and even small crashes cost hundreds of thousands.
Annual maintenance and operation per car:
€5–8 million per season.
4. Why is a Formula 1 car so expensive?
- Hand-built components using aerospace materials
- Extremely complex hybrid systems
- Aerodynamic work based on thousands of hours of CFD and wind tunnel testing
- Exclusive, team-specific parts
- Constant updates and short component lifespan
A Formula 1 car represents the highest level of automotive engineering. Although the price may seem extraordinary, every part reflects years of research, precision manufacturing and the competitive demands of the sport.
Considering all factors, the real cost of putting a single Formula 1 car on track easily exceeds €15 million, not including personnel, logistics or development.