Formula 1 is making further changes to its 2026 power unit regulations following complaints about the new V6 hybrid engines. The FIA, teams, and manufacturers have agreed in principle to a 2027 rebalance: the V6 internal combustion engine will gain 50 kW (67 hp) while the electric motor will be reduced by 50 kW. The new power split will be 450 kW from the V6 and 300 kW from the electric unit, achieved by increasing fuel flow.
This fix aims to maintain a higher battery state of charge through a lap and reduce dangerous speed differentials caused by the current system’s 'super clipping' process. Further discussions include increasing the electric motor's harvesting capability and battery capacity.
Trade-offs remain. More powerful V6s require either larger fuel tanks-reversing the 2026 weight savings-or shorter races. Both fuel tanks and battery packs are located in the car's center, meaning a chassis redesign would be needed, straining budgets under the cost cap.
Separately, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has stated the sport will move to naturally aspirated V8 engines with minimal hybrid systems by 2030 or 2031. “You get the sound, less complexity, light weight,” Ben Sulayem said. He believes manufacturers will agree to the change, but if not, it will be enforced in 2031.