F1 Considers Major Power Unit Shift for 2027

Formula 1 is already exploring a fundamental change to its 2026 power unit regulations, with early talks underway to potentially abandon the much-touted 50/50 power split between the internal combustion engine (ICE) and battery as soon as 2027. The move aims to solve the core issue of 'energy-starved' cars that prevent drivers from pushing flat-out in qualifying, a problem that recent minor rule tweaks are not expected to fully fix.

Why it matters:

The 50/50 power split was a cornerstone of the 2026 regulations, designed to attract new manufacturers like Audi with a strong focus on electrification and sustainability. Shifting away from it so soon would represent a significant admission that the current formula is fundamentally flawed for delivering the kind of racing F1 wants. Getting the power unit balance right is critical for the sport's competitive health and spectacle, directly impacting driver ability, overtaking, and overall fan engagement.

The details:

• The core proposal is to increase power from the internal combustion engine (ICE) while reducing the output demanded from the battery. This would move the split from roughly 50/50 to around 60/40 or 55/45.
• One specific concept being analyzed is a 50kW increase in ICE power (via increased fuel flow) coupled with a 50-100kW reduction in battery deployment.
• This change is considered a hardware issue that cannot be fixed mid-season in 2026. Altering ICE fuel flow and output now would compromise the reliability of components designed for the current specifications.
• Manufacturer Support is Growing: Key figures like McLaren's Andrea Stella and Red Bull's Laurent Mekies have publicly called for hardware changes for the longer term. Notably, Audi—whose entry was linked to the 2026 rules—has clarified it is not wedded to the 50/50 split, removing a potential political hurdle.
• For the change to be enacted for 2027, a 'super majority' vote from power unit manufacturers (4 out of 5), the FIA, and FOM is required. A decision would need to be made within weeks to allow manufacturers time to redesign components.

What's next:

The minor aerodynamic and energy management rule changes for the Miami Grand Prix are seen as a temporary, partial fix—addressing only about 20% of the problem, according to one insider. All eyes are now on the ongoing analysis and manufacturer discussions. If consensus is reached, the shift could be implemented for 2027, but 2028 remains a fallback option. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether F1 commits to this major regulatory pivot to ensure its next-generation cars can truly be driven at the limit.