F1 confirms power unit changes from 2027

Formula 1's governing body, the FIA, has confirmed that teams and power unit manufacturers have reached an agreement on a revised development path for the sport's hybrid engines. The updates are intended to address concerns raised during the first season of the new regulations, particularly the heavy emphasis on energy management.

From 2027, the internal combustion engine will deliver a greater share of the total power output. Fuel flow will increase by five per cent, raising ICE performance from 400kW to 420kW without the need for major hardware modifications. Meanwhile, the electric motor's maximum output will be reduced from 350kW to 300kW.

The Overtake Mode will remain unchanged at 350kW, ensuring drivers can still access a significant performance boost during battles on track. At the same time, the maximum energy harvesting limit will rise from 250kW to 375kW, shifting the overall power balance to a 58/42 split between the combustion engine and electric system.

A second stage of the plan will arrive in 2028. Fuel flow will increase by a further 13 per cent compared to the original 2026 specification, lifting ICE output to 450kW and establishing the long-term 60/40 power distribution. Energy harvesting capacity will also increase again, reaching 400kW, while deployment and Overtake Mode settings will stay the same.

The FIA also confirmed adjustments to the financial regulations surrounding power units, giving manufacturers additional budget flexibility to develop the updated technology. The proposals will be submitted for final approval at the FIA World Motor Sport Council meeting in Macau on 23 June.

In a statement, the FIA said the changes are the result of continued cooperation between the governing body, Formula One Management, teams and engine manufacturers, with the goal of refining the regulations based on real-world experience.

The revisions come after the introduction of the 2026 power units produced more exciting racing but also highlighted several challenges. Drivers have regularly criticised the amount of energy management required, with some qualifying sessions and races demanding significant lift-and-coast driving instead of flat-out attacks.

Engine manufacturers held differing views on how quickly changes should be introduced. Some supported more extensive revisions as early as 2027, while others argued that a gradual approach would provide more realistic development timelines. The agreed compromise will see Formula 1 steadily refine its hybrid formula over the next two seasons rather than making a single major overhaul.