ANALYSIS: 2026 power unit regulations have been established with the engine manufacturers

FIA’s Head of Powertrain Vincent Pereme has emphasized that the rule set for the brand-new power units that will come into force in 2026 have been developed in collaboration with the main engine manufacturers.

Ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, the FIA and Formula One unveiled the technical regulations that will shape the sport from 2026 onwards.

One of the major changes is that the new cars will be 30kg lighter than the current generation F1 cars, which is expected to enhance efficiency and handling.

Power units will also undergo a substantial overhaul, with the removal of the much-debated MGU-H and a rebalancing of the ratio between the internal combustion engine and electrical energy.

The maximum deployment of electrical energy via the MGU-K (motor generator unit – kinetic) will increase from 120 kilowatts (160 hp) under the current regulations to a significant 350 kw (475 hp) — matching the power output of a Formula E car’s motor.

The complete transformation of the power unit has led the sport to introduce active aerodynamics to meet the energy management demands of the new power units. The new cars will be fueled by 100% sustainable fuel.

Expanding on the process that led to the new power unit regulation, FIA’s Head of Powertrain Vincent Pereme highlighted that the governing body engaged in regular discussions with engine manufacturers to establish the main objectives for the future.

“The starting point was in 2021 when we engaged in meetings with the CEOs of all five main engine manufacturers – Renault, Ferrari, Mercedes, Audi, and Ford.

“The main goals of those discussions were to collectively determine the key objectives of the new regulations. The outcome of those ongoing discussions were three main points.

“They aimed to have controlled and significantly reduced costs compared to current expenditures. That was the primary goal.

“Sustainability was another main focus for the new regulations, with an emphasis on the electric engine while ensuring the combustion engine is fed sustainable fuel.

“Pereme revealed that the complex MGU-H component of the current power units has been eliminated to create a level playing field for new engine manufacturers and prevent an advantage for teams with extensive experience.

“To achieve this change in performance, we reduced the fuel flow to the combustion engine and increased the size of the battery and electrical engine in the ERS.

“One aspect I am particularly proud of with these regulations is that they have been finalized through a global agreement with six engine manufacturers, FOM, and the FIA. It was a significant challenge, but we achieved it together,” concluded Pereme.

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