The engine and transmission of a modern Formula One car are some of the most highly stressed pieces of machinery on the planet. The formula has seen many evolutions and changes through the history of the sport. Europe is Formula One's traditional centre; all of the teams are based there and around half the races take place there.

However, the sport's scope has expanded significantly in recent years and Grands Prix are held all over the world. Events in Europe and the Americas have been dropped in favour of races in Asia and the Middle East; Of the eighteen races in 2008, nine are outside Europe.